Pediatric Ptosis

Some known causes of eyelid problems include:

• Weak eyelid (levator) muscle
• Cranial nerve palsies
• Recurring infections
• Tumors of the eyelid or orbit
• Problems with eye muscles (e.g., myasthenia gravis)
• Thyroid disease

Common eyelid abnormalities in babies and children include the following:

• Ptosis, congenital or acquired, causing partial or complete (covering the eye to varying degrees)
• Birthmarks or growths on the eyelids
• Chalazia: Inflamed cysts that develop when an eyelid oil gland is blocked
• Stye (hordeolum): Bacterial infection of the eyelash follicles

Problems with your child’s eyelids are usually easy to see. Some common symptoms include:

• Drooping eyelid
• Eyelid that is turned outward or inward
• Redness, swelling or pimple-like bumps on the eyelid
• Pain or tenderness in the eyelid
• Backward head tilt to compensate for partially closed eyelids

If your child’s pediatrician suspects ptosis or other eyelid abnormalities, he or she may refer you to an ophthalmologist for further diagnosis and management.

Many eyelid problems, such as styes or chalazia, can be treated at home. Some of the things you can do include:

• Gentle cleaning of the eyelids with a warm, wet washcloth
• Warm compresses for 15 minutes, four times a day for 7-10 days
• Application of eye drops or ointment

If your child’s ptosis or other eyelid problems is more serious, your pediatrician may recommend further treatment. At Children’s National Hospital, our goal is to restore normal eyelid function so that your child can see normally. We offer the following treatment options:

• Antibiotics for recurring infections or inflammation of the eyelids
• Surgery to drain styes or chalazia
• Surgery to correct the eyelid position and shape for ptosis