Ptosis (Droopy eyelid)

Ptosis (“toe-sis”) refers to drooping of an upper eyelid of one of both eyes.  This is different to the excess skin on the eyelid which may give similar appearance. The droop may be barely noticeable, or the lid can drop down over the entire pupil often restricting the field of vision.

Some people with a ptosis try to tilt their heads back to try and see under the lid or raise their eyebrows repeatedly to try and lift the eyelids. This can often cause a headache due to muscle fatigue, as well as forehead wrinkles.


Ptosis is commonly caused by ageing. As you become older, the levator “lifting” muscles of the eyelid become stretched resulting in the upper eyelid becoming droopy. Ptosis can also be present at birth (congenital ptosis) and some neurological conditions or other systemic diseases can lead to the development of ptosis.


Mild ptosis that is not causing problems, either with function or appearance doesn’t necessary require treatment. Eyelid surgery is the best treatment for people who are bothered by their ptosis. Your ophthalmologist will tighten the levator muscles to lift the eyelids, giving you improved vision and appearances. Our aim is to eliminate the ptosis and give you a natural look that restores your appearance.

Download this information: Ptosis (pdf)