Important facts you should know on ptosis


Posted April 20, 2013 by timbaub00

Every year, thousands of patients from all around the world are diagnosed with ptosis. This medical affection that can affect both eyes can be congenital or develop during adult life.

 
Every year, thousands of patients from all around the world are diagnosed with ptosis. This medical affection that can affect both eyes can be congenital or develop during adult life. Even though it occurs isolated, the condition may be associated with other diseases and affections such as hereditary or degenerative disorders, infections or tumours. Besides a drooped eyelid or both, patients suffer from blurred vision and tired appearance but also tearing. The best treatment is eyelid surgery: a simple chirurgical intervention through which it is reduced the excess tissue around the upper eyelid. If left untreated, this affection can lead to more serious conditions such as astigmatism or amblyopia.

Commonly known as ‘lazy eye’, in simple words ptosis is a low position of the upper eyelid. Basically, the muscles are not strong enough to hold the eyelid properly. It is common for elderly persons but it affects young people as well. Amongst possible causes, can be mentioned the following: nerve abnormalities, inflammation, trauma, infections and other hereditary or degenerative conditions. Because it impairs peripheral vision, it is essential to turn to eyelid surgery as soon as possible.

However, before contacting an MD for scheduling an eyelid surgery it is important to understand better the characteristics and the type of the condition. Depending on the cause, there are several types of ptosis: acquired (caused by a dehiscence of the aponeurosis levator) or congenital (possible caused by a condition called Horner). Another cause of eye dropping is due to aging: as years go by a mild form of this condition can affect our vision and appearance.

As for the gravity of the ptosis, the dropping can be severe (more than 4 mm), moderate (between 3-4 mm) and minimal (with values from 1 to 2 mm). A severe form can lead not only to a blurred vision but to a permanent impair. In order to avoid all these, specialists recommend a simple chirurgical operation, an eyelid surgery that can be trans-cutaneous (a small skin incision) or trans-conjunctival (performed inside the eyelid). This way, the muscles can be repositioned and the excess tissue is removed. The incisions are not visible and, as time passes by, they will fade away.

The treatment will be adjusted to the age of the patient and the severity of the condition but also about the presence of other abnormalities. A correct diagnosis implies blood tests, MRI scans as well as X-rays. These steps are absolutely necessary before any type of chirurgical intervention. Even though it’s a common, rather simple affection, it is important to look for a professional MD. With the help of online sources, finding a good specialist in your area is not complicated at all. Just as any other disease, when left untreated, ptosis can have serious consequences upon your health state. After all, it is easy to find a serious doctor and solve the issue in time and with little efforts.

For further information on this medical affection, take a look at the site eyelid surgery http://eyeplastics.com/20-WhatisBlepharoplasty/. Please visit ptosis http://eyeplastics.com/350-WhatisPtosis/ if you want to learn more on causes, symptoms, types and available treatments.
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Issued By david banks
Country United Kingdom
Categories Health
Last Updated April 20, 2013