Eyelid Ptosis

Ptosis Causes

There are various ptosis causes that affect the drooping of the upper eyelid. Causes of congenital ptosis that is hereditary are unknown. Other ptosis causes include damage or trauma to the levator and Muller's muscles that raise the eyelids or damage to the oculomotor nerve which controls the muscle. A disease such as diabetes mellitus or brain tumor can be the source of these nerve and muscle damages. Exposure to certain toxins from venomous snakes or insects can also cause ptosis.

When the levator and Muller's muscles that raise the eyelid are not strong enough to do so, eyelid ptosis can occur. This occurs more frequently with the elderly as muscles weaken due to age, but one can also be born with it.