What is acquired ptosis (low-lying lids)
and how can it affect you?

What is acquired ptosis (low-lying lids) and how can it affect you?

Are low-lying eyelids making your eyes look a little tired?
You may have acquired ptosis.

Acquired ptosis (low-lying lids) is a common medical condition that:

  • Can develop later in life
  • Affects adults of all ages, but occurs more often with increased age
  • Usually occurs when the muscles in the eyelid stretch and weaken, causing the upper eyelid to droop
  • May be caused by other issues, such as cataract surgery, contact lens wear, or an underlying medical condition. It could also be a sign of a more serious medical condition.

Actual patient image courtesy of Dr. Alex Kabiri

Millions of people who have acquired ptosis may not even be aware of it

  • Millions of people over the age of 40 may have acquired ptosis
  • But only 15% have been diagnosed, and even fewer have received any treatment*

*Estimate of prevalence was calculated using both U.S. Census data and a published study by Sridharan et al. (1995). The Sridharan study observed a prevalence rate of 11.5% (n=400), which was then applied to the US Census’ projected 2020 population of Americans aged 50+ years.

Can you recognize acquired ptosis (low-lying lids)?

Normal

Mild

Moderate

Severe

Acquired ptosis can lead to vision impairment

  • Low-lying eyelid(s) can affect eyesight by not only blocking your vision, but also by reducing field of vision, which may interfere with day-to-day functions such as:
    • Reading
    • Driving
    • Computer use
    • Looking up without the need to tilt your head back

Do you have low-lying lids?

Take a quick interactive quiz about your eyelids.

Actual patient

Actual patient

Do you have low-lying lids?

Take a quick interactive quiz to find out.