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Can droopy eyelids affect your vision? Yes–and in more ways than you may first assume.
Today, the team here at Columbus Eyelid discuss the most common causes of droopy eyelids, procedures to fix them, and why it’s worthwhile to expand your field of vision… no matter your age.
Can Droopy Eyelids Affect Your Vision?
With over 11% of the American population suffering from droopy eyes, it’s crucial to dive into how–and why–it happens.
Firstly, there are two types of droopy eyelids:
Ptosis: Ptosis is the lowering of the upper eyelid. This may prevent you from being able to fully open one or both of your eyes. Ptosis also frequently results in the hindering of peripheral vision or, in severe cases, even a limited ability to see straight ahead. Some people with ptosis will have to look through their eyelashes in order to see.
Dermatochalasis: Excess eyelid skin is called dermatochalasis. People often associate this condition with looking tired or having “bags” around the eyes. Like ptosis, dermatochalasis can also cause the eyelids to be partially closed. Ptosis usually involves only the upper eyelid, while dermatochalasis typically affects both the upper and lower eyelids.
From there, there are a number of reasons why one may develop dermatochalasis or ptosis at any age. The most common of these reasons are as follows:
- Muscle weakness due to aging
- Injury to the eyelid
- Damage to the nerve that controls eyelid muscles
- Over-stretching of the eyelid ligaments
- Eye surgery complications
- Third nerve palsy
- Horner syndrome
- Excess eyelid skin due to weight
- Temporary muscle weakness due to Botox
- And muscular dystrophy
- How to Improve Vision With Droopy Eyelids
In order to improve vision with droopy eyelids, it must first be determined via a professional consultation what type of droopy eyelids you have and what has likely caused it.
In ptosis, for example, the top cause of it in adults is “wear and tear” of the eyelids–most often triggered by eye surgeries, long-term contact-wearing, or harsh chronic eyelid rubbing. Symptoms of ptosis frequently include difficulty keeping the eyes open, a straining sensation of the eyelid, and, of course, a limited field of vision.
Here at Columbus Eyelid, we treat a range of ptosis cases in order to improve patients’ vision. While the main goals of ptosis surgery are to elevate the upper eyelid and give you a full field of vision and symmetry with the opposite eyelid, it has the added bonus of helping you look and feel more refreshed, thereby boosting your self-confidence.
Dr. Kauh and our team will thoroughly evaluate your situation to determine the best treatment for your needs. He then will discuss in detail the postoperative expectations and recovery.
FAQs About Ptosis Procedures
Here at Columbus, we field a variety of FAQs about ptosis and its treatment.
“Will insurance cover ptosis procedures?”
Generally, your insurance company will review your medical records and documentation to see if the problem with your eyelids is causing a functional issue. If these criteria are not met, the surgery will be considered cosmetic and will therefore not be covered, as it will be seen as a purely optional procedure.
“What is the downtime after ptosis surgery?”
On average, ptosis patients can expect to take about one week off from work. Dr. Kauh will provide a personalized estimate of your downtime once you finalize a surgical plan. Over-the-counter painkillers and topical antibiotics are typically enough to manage discomfort during this healing period.
“How long does it take to fully heal from ptosis procedures? What are the stages of healing?”
While initial swelling and bruising generally subside within two weeks, it can take longer to fully ebb depending on a patient’s health and age. Eyelid and facial swelling tend to worsen the first few days following surgery. Ice packs, head elevation, and rest may help minimize swelling during this time.
“How can I know if I’m a candidate for ptosis surgery?”
Candidates for ptosis surgery need to meet the following requirements, which will be checked during your consultation: be free of any eye infections or other serious eye conditions, like glaucoma, in order to mitigate the risk of surgery complications; not have certain medical conditions, like hyperthyroidism, diabetes, or high blood pressure; be in good general health; and have mild-to-severe eyelid drooping.
“How can I book my ptosis consultation at Columbus Eyelid?”
You can contact us today to start your journey towards better vision.
