Ptosis: What You Can Do To Help

Droopy eyelids, technically known as ptosis, can interfere with daily activities such as reading, driving, and even walking when the lid blocks part of the visual field. For Las Vegas residents dealing with ptosis, understanding the types, causes, and available treatment options is an important first step. While surgical correction is commonly recommended, scleral contact lenses offer a non-surgical alternative that can effectively prop up the drooping eyelid and improve both function and appearance.

What Are the Different Types of Ptosis?

Ptosis is classified based on its cause and when it develops. Identifying the type helps guide the most appropriate treatment approach.

Congenital Ptosis

Congenital ptosis is present at birth and occurs when the levator muscle that lifts the eyelid does not develop properly. Early evaluation is important because an untreated droopy lid in childhood can block vision and contribute to amblyopia. Treatment typically involves working with an ophthalmologist who can determine whether and when intervention is needed.

Acquired Ptosis

Acquired ptosis is the most common type and develops in adults as the levator muscle gradually stretches and weakens with age. It often becomes noticeable in the later decades of life and may affect one or both eyes.

Neurogenic Ptosis

Neurogenic ptosis results from a problem with the nerve pathway that controls the eyelid muscle. Conditions such as third nerve palsy or Horner syndrome can cause this type. Prompt evaluation is recommended because the underlying neurological cause may require additional medical workup.

Myogenic Ptosis

Myogenic ptosis is caused by weakness in the eyelid muscle itself and may be associated with systemic conditions such as myasthenia gravis or muscular dystrophy.

Mechanical Ptosis

Mechanical ptosis occurs when the eyelid is weighed down by a mass, cyst, or excess skin, making it difficult for the levator muscle to keep the lid elevated.

Traumatic Ptosis

Traumatic ptosis develops after an injury to the eye, eyelid, or the surrounding structures, including cases where previous eye procedures have affected the levator muscle or its attachments.

How Scleral Lenses Help Correct Ptosis Without Surgery

For patients who are not candidates for surgical correction or prefer to avoid it, scleral lenses can serve as an effective non-surgical option. Scleral lenses are large-diameter gas permeable contact lenses that vault over the entire cornea and rest on the sclera, the white part of the eye. By fitting the lens with a specific vault height, the lens physically props the drooping eyelid upward, creating a more symmetrical and open appearance that closely matches the other eye.

This approach is particularly useful for patients with traumatic ptosis, those with health conditions that make them poor candidates for eyelid procedures, or those who simply prefer a reversible solution. The scleral lens is custom-designed for each patient using advanced measurements, and the vault can be adjusted to achieve the desired cosmetic and functional result.

Why Choose Scleral Lenses for Ptosis Management?

Scleral lenses are custom-made for each eye, providing a precise fit and reliable comfort throughout the day.
The lens creates a smooth optical surface over the cornea, which can also improve vision clarity for patients with irregular corneas or dry eye.
The lens acts as a protective barrier for the corneal surface, shielding it from debris and reducing irritation.
Scleral lenses are removable and adjustable, making them a flexible alternative to a permanent procedure.
In addition to ptosis, scleral lenses are used to manage a wide range of conditions including keratoconus, post-corneal transplant vision correction, and severe dry eye.

What to Expect During a Scleral Lens Fitting

A scleral lens fitting for ptosis begins with a thorough evaluation of the eyelid, cornea, and scleral shape using advanced imaging technology. At Insight Vision Optometry, Las Vegas, our specialty contact lens team uses tools such as sMap 3D corneo-scleral topography and anterior segment OCT to map the unique contours of each eye. This information guides the design of a custom scleral lens tailored to both the vision needs and the eyelid position of the patient.

Multiple follow-up visits may be needed to fine-tune the fit and vault height for optimal comfort and lid support. Our doctors, Dr. Stephanie Woo, OD, FAAO, FSLS, Dr. Nathan Schramm, OD, FSLS, FBCLA, and Dr. Thanh Mai, OD, FSLS, bring extensive experience in scleral lens design and have helped patients with complex cases from across the country.

If you are experiencing ptosis and would like to explore non-surgical options, contact Insight Vision Optometry at 702-747-4070 or visit www.insightvisionlv.com to schedule a consultation.