Eyelid Ptosis

Upper-eyelid ptosis is frequently encountered in clinical practice but has a broad differential diagnosis. It can produce visual symptoms when the pupil is encroached by the upper eyelid. In this chapter, we begin by reviewing the clinical features that help with localization of the lesion responsible for upper-eyelid ptosis. We next describe the components of the eyelid examination that help to quantify and characterize upper-eyelid ptosis. We then discuss the features of levator dehiscence and list its common causes, which include involutional changes in orbital connective tissues, long-term use of contact lenses, and iatrogenic trauma. Lastly, we review the treatment options for levator dehiscence.