Eyelid ptosis at Spire Washington Hospital

Eyelid ptosis affects the muscles in the eyelid that are designed to lift the upper eyelid.

It is most commonly caused by ageing but can also occur in younger adult patients who wear contact lenses. This is due to the continuous contact with the eye during insertion and removal of the lenses. Very occasionally, ptosis can be caused by neuromuscular disease.

Eyelid ptosis can also occur with the use of some drugs, following eyelid trauma, eyelid problems or as a by-product of an eyelid lump such as a large chalazion or tumour.

Our patients are at the heart of what we do and we want you to be in control of your care. To us, that means you can choose the consultant you want to see, and when you want. They'll be with you every step of the way.

All of our consultants are of the highest calibre and benefit from working in our modern, well-equipped hospitals and clinics.

Our consultants have high standards to meet, often holding specialist NHS posts and delivering expertise in complex sub-specialty surgeries. Many of our consultants have international reputations for their research in their specialised field.

You will have a formal consultation with a healthcare professional. During this time you will be able to explain your medical history, symptoms and raise any concerns that you might have.

We will also discuss with you whether any further diagnostic tests, such as scans or blood tests, are needed. Any additional costs will be discussed before further tests are carried out.

We've tried to make your experience with us as easy and relaxed as possible.

For more information on visiting hours, our food, what to pack if you're staying with us, parking and all those other important practicalities, please visit our patient information pages.

Our dedicated team will also give you tailored advice to follow in the run up to your visit.

A full ophthalmic examination is performed to check visual function, eye movement, the eyelid condition and the ocular surface.

A full face examination is performed where special eyelid measurements are taken and a phenylephrine test is performed to assess the degree and type of ptosis. This helps decide the specific surgery that may be required. The only permanent way to treat eyelid ptosis is with surgery.

Occasionally, injection treatments or eye drops can be used to temporarily rectify minor upper eyelid ptosis.

We are committed to delivering excellent individual care and customer service across our network of hospitals, clinics and specialist care centres around the UK. Our dedicated and highly trained team aim to achieve consistently excellent results. For us it's more than just treating patients, it's about looking after people.

Important to note

The treatment described on this page may be adapted to meet your individual needs, so it's important to follow your healthcare professional's advice and raise any questions that you may have with them.