Ptosis is a condition that affects people of all ages, no matter their age. It is characterized by the upper eyelid drooping over the eye and can impact one or both of the eyes. When the condition becomes severe, it can impact a person’s vision and ability to perform daily tasks. Most commonly, these effects become noticeable when a person with ptosis tries to drive, read, and perform work activities. People with ptosis also tend to overcompensate for the condition by constantly raising their eyes, which can quickly lead to headaches and other unwanted symptoms. Because the effects of ptosis can be so far-reaching, people often wonder about its causes. Specifically, many people wonder if ptosis is genetic. We share the answer to this question and more information about the condition below.
Is Ptosis Genetic?
Ptosis can be the result of genetic factors that exist from birth. In the case that an infant is born with ptosis, it is referred to as congenital ptosis. If a person has congenital ptosis, it is typically because their levator muscle did not develop properly before birth. The levator muscle connects to the upper eyelid and is responsible for lifting and lowering it. Genetic ptosis is usually caused by inherited complications with the levator muscle.It is helpful to understand your child’s risk. If one parent has the condition, it increases the likelihood that a child will have it. However, the child being born with ptosis is not a certainty, and some babies are born without the condition. You can talk with your doctor or oculofacial plastic surgeon if you are concerned.The most effective treatment for congenital ptosis is ptosis surgery, which involves tightening the levator muscle to lift the eyelid. Ptosis surgery is usually successful in addressing the issue of ptosis, so the child will not have any vision issues related to congenital ptosis.
Other Causes of Ptosis
Genetics are a common cause of the condition. However, ptosis can develop for several reasons.
Aging
The natural aging process can lead to ptosis. In fact, aging is the most common cause of the condition. The muscles and the tissues in your body naturally weaken as you get older. This weakening also occurs around your eyes, affects the levator muscle, and creates the sagging appearance associated with ptosis. Common signs include eyelid drooping to a point where it can block your vision. Vision change associated with ptosis is often gradual and can affect one or both of your eyes. In addition to the changes in your tissues and muscles, aging can also impact your skin. Your skin will lose its elasticity, which can lead to skin sagging. Fat loss around the eyes is also common and can further exacerbate the signs of ptosis in your eyes. In many cases, this is not a cause for medical concern. However, oculofacial plastic surgery is a great way to address the issue. It can improve your vision and your overall facial aesthetic.
Trauma or Injury
Ptosis can occur if there is damage to your eyelid muscles, nerves, or tendons. This damage can occur for several reasons, including trauma or surgical complications. An intense hit, cuts, or burns can affect the area around your eye. In some cases, this can lead to ptosis. In addition, surgical complications can weaken the muscles in your eyes and lead to ptosis. These issues may resolve themselves but will sometimes need surgery to be rectified.Those who wear contact lenses, especially those who wear hard contact lenses, may also be more likely to develop ptosis. Contacts can stretch the eyelid over time and increase a person’s risk of ptosis. If you wear contact lenses and notice issues with your upper eyelid, consider glasses or Lasik surgery to avoid further damage.
Ptosis Surgery
If you notice dropping in your upper eyelid, contact Dr. Bradford Lee and his team at Oculofacial Plastic Surgery of Hawaii today to schedule a consultation!
