Don’t Lose Your Driver’s License in 2026 to Ptosis

If you’ve noticed one or both eyelids drooping lower than they used to, making you look tired, feeling uneven or even blocking part of your vision, you may be experiencing ptosis. Ptosis is more than just a cosmetic concern. For many people, it affects daily activities like reading, driving or simply keeping their eyes open without strain. The good news is that ptosis is treatable and modern eyelid surgery offers safe, effective ways to restore both function and appearance, so you can keep on without interruptions to your life.

Ptosis occurs when the upper eyelid droops due to weakness, stretching or detachment of the levator muscle that lifts the eyelid. In adults it’s typically caused by:

• Aging eyelid muscles that become stretched
• Prior eye or eyelid surgery
• Long-term contact lens wear
• Trauma
• Nerve conditions

Ptosis can be mild or severe. Some people only notice an asymmetry in photos, while others experience their eyelid physically covering their pupils and obstructing vision. Those with ptosis describe a heavy or tired feeling of the eyelids. They may feel like they need to lift their eyebrows to see properly or notice an asymmetry in eyelid height. Many people with ptosis report a reduced upper field of vision and complain of a sleepy or fatigued appearance.

To diagnose ptosis, an oculoplastic surgeon will evaluate eyelid position, muscle function and vision. They will measure the eyelid height, assess levator strength and perform visual field testing if necessary. A proper diagnosis determines which surgical technique will be most effective. While some people may seek out surgical correction for aesthetic reasons, if drooping interferes with vision, insurance may cover treatment.

Ptosis surgery aims to tighten or reattach the eyelid muscles so the lid can open normally again. The approach used depends on the cause and severity. A levator advancement, which is the most common method, involves the surgeon shortening or reattaching the levator muscle to lift the eyelid. This method is typically performed through an incision in the natural eyelid crease to restore a natural contour and is the preferred method for mild to moderate ptosis. Muller’s muscle conjunctival resection is for those with good muscle function, so no external incision is necessary.  For those with severe (or congenital) ptosis, a frontalis sling uses a tiny strap to connect the eyelid to the forehead muscle so the brow can assist in lifting the lid.

Ptosis surgery is usually outpatient, with minimal downtime. Bruising and swelling are expected for 1–2 weeks and final eyelid position is refined over several months.

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Dr. Kevin Perman is an oculofacial plastic surgeon with over 35 years of surgical experience in the greater Washington D.C. area, who is a recognized authority in the management of both aesthetic and reconstructive problems, dealing with eyelids, brows, tear drainage system, orbit, and surrounding facial structures.