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Causes of Droopy Eyelids
in Lakeview

Causes of Droopy Eyelids in Lakeview

If you’ve noticed that your eyelids are drooping as you get older, know that you are not alone. Scientifically referred to as ptosis or blepharoptosis, either the upper or lower eyelid may begin to sag to the point of interfering with your eyesight. At the very least, it may derail your confidence. Blepharoptosis can affect either one or both of your eyes and it may be something you are born with or something that you develop over a period of time. If you have droopy eyelids in Lakeview, here are some possible reasons behind it.

Congenital Blepharoptosis:

Some infants are born with blepharoptosis due to developmental problems involving the levator muscle, or the muscle that raises the upper eyelid. Surgery is usually necessary in order to help improve the vision of the infant.

Aponeurotic Blepharoptosis:

This is age-related blepharoptosis and it is the most common form that is not present at birth. Due to gravity and general aging, the tendon-like tissue that helps lift the levator muscle in the eyelid gets stretched out. This causes droopy eyelids in Lakeview and can affect one or both eyes.

Myasthenia Gravis:

This rare disorder impacts the way in which muscles respond to nerves. Over time, muscles continue to get weaker in the eyelids and also in other parts of the body, including facial muscles, legs, arms and more. Blepharoptosis can be one of the first signs of this disorder, so it is important to consult with your doctor if you have questions or concerns.

Nerve Problems

Be aware that droopy eyelids in Lakeview may be a sign of detrimental nerve problems. Cranial nerves in the brain control the eye muscles, so conditions that affect cranial muscles can cause blepharoptosis. For example, a brain aneurysm, stroke, brain tumors or even nerve damage caused by diabetes may cause blepharoptosis-like symptoms. Horner’s syndrome is another cause of droopy eyelids; it can cause your pupil to come abnormally small and you will lose your ability to sweat. With Horner’s syndrome, there’s a possibility that there’s a cancerous tumor located at the top portion of the lungs.

When you look in the mirror, you should be able to see a sizable portion of your iris above your pupil. Your eyelid should never cover the eyelid itself.  If you have droopy eyelids in Lakeview, contact our surgeon Adam J Cohen for a consultation! He will not only help your vision but also improve your confidence!