Updated: 11-05-2025
Eyelid Problem in Kids (Ptosis)—Symptoms, Causes, Treatment
Many kids suffer from the problem of drooping of the upper eyelid.
This condition is known as ptosis.
The degree of dropping varies.
In some kids, the lids may droop slightly, whereas in some cases, the lid may completely cover the eye or the pupil.
In severe conditions, the vision can also be blocked and requires surgical intervention as treatment.
Ptosis, or the problem of eyelids, can affect either one eye or both eyes.
Sometimes it can be present from birth, or the kids may inherit it.
In very few people, the problem of drooping eyelids occurs during adulthood.
Causes of Drooping Eyelids
The eyelid problem in kids is caused by the weakening of the muscles that are responsible for lifting the eyelid.
The muscle loses its ability to raise the eyelid because sometimes the nerves that control these muscles are damaged, or the skin above the eyelids becomes loose.
A congenital abnormality that is present at the time of birth is one of the major causes of eyelid problems in kids.
In some cases, the child is born with moderate or severe ptosis, and the problem can be cured with surgical treatment so that the normal vision of the child is restored.
In case this condition is not treated, it may further aggravate another problem known as amblyopia, or lazy eye.
Amblyopia is a problem of vision in which the normal development of vision is stunted during childhood.
In some cases, continuous negligence can lead to a permanent loss of vision.
Also Read: Easy ways to improve your eyesight naturally
Symptoms of Drooping Eyelids
- Watery eyes or increased tearing
- Drooping of one or both of the eyes
- Severe Ptosis can also interfere with vision
Treatment of Drooping Eyelid
Generally, surgery is the only treatment recommended for ptosis in childhood.
However, certain rare disorders can be treated with medications.
The decision depends upon the assessment of the paediatric ophthalmologist in Dubai, who takes into consideration the age of the child, measurement of the height of the eyelid, whether only one or both of the eyelids are having a problem, and so on.
