Ptosis (Droopy Eyelids): What It Is, Why It Happens & How to Treat It

What Does Ptosis Look Like?

Wondering how to tell if you have ptosis? A drooping eyelid is the most obvious sign. For some, it’s a slight sag that doesn’t interfere with daily life; for others, the eyelid may droop enough to partially or completely cover the pupil, affecting vision.

Ptosis can be symmetrical, affecting both eyes, or asymmetrical, where only one eyelid droops—making it easier to spot.

Common signs and symptoms of ptosis include:

• A noticeable droop in one or both eyelids
• The need to tilt your head back to see better
• A tired or sleepy facial expression
• Eye strain or fatigue, especially after reading or screen time
• Frequently raising your eyebrows to lift the eyelids

What Causes Ptosis (Droopy Eyelid)?

Ptosis can have many causes, ranging from natural aging and neurological disorders to trauma or even bites from insects or snakes. The most common reason for a droopy eyelid is a problem with the levator muscle—the muscle responsible for lifting the upper eyelid.

This muscle stretches from the eye socket to the eyelid. When it becomes weak, stretched, or damaged, the eyelid may sag, resulting in ptosis. The condition can be temporary or permanent, and it may appear at birth (congenital ptosis) or develop later in life (acquired ptosis).

In many cases, ptosis can resolve on its own or improve with medical treatment, depending on the underlying cause.

Common causes of ptosis include:

• Aging: natural weakening of the eyelid muscles over time
• Neurological conditions: such as myasthenia gravis, Horner’s syndrome, or third cranial nerve palsy
• Eye trauma or surgery: injuries can damage eyelid muscles or nerves
• Tumors or growths: can put pressure on the muscles or nerves
• Systemic diseases: conditions like diabetes or stroke may disrupt nerve signals to the eyelid

How Do You Identify Ptosis?

Recognizing the symptoms of droopy eyes early can help you get timely treatment and prevent complications. The most obvious symptom is a drooping upper eyelid, but other signs may also be present—especially if the cause is neurological.

Common ptosis symptoms include:

• One or both upper eyelids drooping
• Partially or fully obstructed vision
• Eye fatigue or discomfort, especially while reading
• Double vision (in some neurological conditions)
• Tilting the head or raising eyebrows to improve sight
• Changes in facial symmetry

Our optometrist can diagnose ptosis through a comprehensive eye exam, which may include:

• Visual field tests to check for blocked vision
• Assessing eye muscle strength by testing gaze in different directions
• Measuring levator function (how far the eyelid moves when looking up and down)

How Do You Fix Ptosis?

Ptosis treatment depends on the severity of the condition and its underlying cause. In mild cases that don’t impact vision, no immediate treatment may be needed. We may simply recommend regular monitoring to track any changes over time.

If ptosis is caused by an underlying health issue, such as a nerve disorder or muscle condition, treating that issue may help improve or correct the drooping.

Common ptosis treatment options include:

• Ptosis crutch glasses: special glasses that support the eyelid—often used for temporary or non-surgical cases
• Eye exercises: may help in mild cases or as a supplement to other treatments
• Surgical correction: in more severe cases, eyelid surgery may be recommended to tighten the levator muscle and lift the eyelid
• Medical therapy: if ptosis is related to a neurological or systemic condition, your optometrist will refer you to the appropriate specialist

Whatever the cause, we’ll work with you to find the right solution so you can see clearly and feel comfortable again.

What Is Ptosis Surgery?

When non-surgical treatments aren’t enough, ptosis surgery—also known as droopy eyelid surgery—can help restore both appearance and vision. This is typically an outpatient procedure, meaning most patients go home the same day.

Recovery time usually ranges from 1 to 2 weeks, and some bruising and swelling around the eye is completely normal during the healing process.

How Ptosis Surgery Works

The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, which numbs the eye and surrounding area. The surgeon will make small adjustments to the levator muscle, the muscle that lifts the eyelid. In more advanced cases, this muscle may need to be tightened or reattached to improve its function and restore the eyelid to a more natural position.

While ptosis surgery is generally safe, like all surgical procedures, it comes with potential risks and complications. Your ophthalmologist or oculoplastic surgeon will thoroughly explain the procedure, assess whether you're a good candidate, and answer any questions you may have.

How Much Does Ptosis Surgery Cost in Canada?

The cost of ptosis surgery in Canada can vary based on several factors, including:

• The complexity of the case
• The surgeon’s experience and specialization
• The province where the procedure is performed

If ptosis is considered a medical necessity–such as when vision is significantly impaired–the procedure may be covered by provincial health insurance. However, if done for cosmetic reasons or through a private clinic, prices typically range from $2,000 to $5,000 CAD per eye.

When to See an Eye Doctor for Ptosis

Ptosis can affect both how you see and how you feel about your appearance. Fortunately, there are a range of effective treatments—from non-surgical options like ptosis crutch glasses to corrective eyelid surgery.

If you're experiencing droopy eyelid symptoms, think you may have ptosis in one eye, or want to explore your treatment options, we’re here to help.

Schedule an eye exam with our optometrist today. We’ll assess your condition, check your visual health, and work with you to find the most effective solution so that you can see and feel your best.