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As we age, our bodies experience various signs of aging, one of the most noticeable being skin sagging, particularly around the sensitive area of the eyes. This can lead to drooping eyelids, a condition also known as "ptosis."
Ptosis not only affects the appearance of the face but can also impair clear vision. This is why ophthalmologists often recommend eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, to correct the issue.
In this article, the ophthalmology experts at Magrabi Health explain the details of eyelid surgery, its goals, and provide important facts about this procedure.
Aging is one of the main causes of drooping eyelids due to the weakening of the muscles surrounding the eyes. However, it is not the only cause. Below are other reasons for ptosis:
As the causes suggest, both children and adults can suffer from ptosis. Below is a closer look at how this issue affects both groups.
The severity of ptosis in children varies. Some may experience mild drooping, while others suffer from severe ptosis that completely covers the pupil, affecting their vision.
In many cases, eye surgeons recommend eyelid surgery, which aims to correct ptosis by tightening the levator muscle or attaching the eyelid to other muscles to assist in lifting it. The primary goal of the surgery is to improve vision and prevent the complications mentioned earlier.
Magrabi Health experts advise conducting regular eye exams for children with ptosis to assess their vision and ensure they are not developing any additional eye problems.
In adults, ptosis or drooping eyelids is referred to as "acquired" ptosis. This condition occurs often due to the stretching or weakening of the levator muscle, caused by aging or other factors mentioned earlier.
It’s also vital to note that ptosis in adults can result from previous eye surgery or the presence of a tumor affecting the strength of the eyelid muscles.
To determine the cause of ptosis in adults, ophthalmologists at Magrabi Health conduct comprehensive eye exams and may request blood tests or imaging studies.
Eyelid surgery is the most common solution for ptosis in adults. The surgery involves tightening the levator muscle to restore its normal function.
In some cases, surgery may not be necessary, and doctors may prescribe eye drops containing oxymetazoline, which can stimulate the muscles responsible for lifting the eyelid. However, this treatment is not suitable for all patients.
Magrabi Health experts emphasize the importance of not using eye drops without medical supervision, as improper use can lead to additional health issues and complications.
As previously mentioned, ptosis negatively affects vision, impacting overall quality of life for both children and adults.
Magrabi Health experts recommend visiting a specialized eye hospital promptly if any abnormal symptoms in eyelid movement are noticed, especially in children, to protect them from the multiple complications of ptosis and prevent long-term vision problems.
Patients undergoing eyelid surgery should be in good health and free from serious eye conditions such as glaucoma or severe dry eye syndrome.
They should also inform their doctors about their complete medical history and all the medications or supplements they are taking.
At Magrabi Health, eyelid surgery is usually performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia. The procedure typically lasts 45 minutes to one hour when only the upper eyelids are treated, while surgery for both upper and lower eyelids may take slightly longer.
Post-surgery, patients may experience mild pain and swelling around the surgical site, which usually lasts for about two weeks.
These side effects typically resolve within a few days after the surgery. In rare cases, patients may have trouble closing their eyes or outward turning of the lower eyelid (ectropion).
At Magrabi Health, we attempt to minimize these risks by relying on expert eye surgeons and the latest techniques for performing such surgeries.
If you are experiencing any issues related to vision clarity or abnormal symptoms in your eyes or eyelids, we invite you to consult our ophthalmologists and specialists at Magrabi Health.
Our team will provide a comprehensive evaluation and develop a personalized treatment plan for your recovery.
Choose the nearest Magrabi Health branch today and receive the best healthcare services across the Kingdom and the Middle East.
Maghrabi Health experts reaffirm the importance of visiting a specialized hospital for regular eye exams, which contribute to early detection of eye diseases through accurate diagnosis, allowing for successful treatment plans that minimize potential side effects or complications. Book your medical consultation now at Maghrabi Health with a selection of the best keratoconus specialists in the Middle East and North Africa.
