---
title: Ptosis (droopy eyelid)
description: "Ptosis is drooping of the upper eyelid that can partially cover the pupil. It may be present from birth or acquired later in life. ## Causes and symptoms Severity ranges from mild cosmetic concern to significant visual obstruction. - Aponeurotic…"
url: "https://bluefinvision.com/knowledge-base/topics/conditions-diseases/ptosis-droopy-eyelid/"
updated: "2025-12-16"
category: "Conditions & Diseases"
---

# Ptosis (droopy eyelid)

Ptosis is drooping of the upper eyelid that can partially cover the pupil. It may be present from birth or acquired later in life.

## Causes and symptoms

Severity ranges from mild cosmetic concern to significant visual obstruction.

- Aponeurotic ptosis from age-related muscle tendon stretching
- Neurogenic, myogenic, traumatic, or mechanical causes
- Head-tilting, brow elevation, or eye strain to compensate
- Risk of amblyopia in children if the pupil is obscured

## Treatment

Management depends on cause, lid height, and levator function.

- Observation in mild, non-progressive cases
- Surgical tightening or reattachment of the levator or frontalis suspension
- Treatment of underlying neurological or muscular disease where possible
- Regular monitoring of visual development in paediatric ptosis