A drooping eyelid is called ptosis or blepharoptosis. In this condition, the upper eyelid falls to a position that is lower than normal because the muscle that elevates the eyelid is weak. In young children, if the drooping eyelid covers part or all of the pupil and interferes with vision this may result in amblyopia or poor vision.
Ptosis may be present at birth, or it may develop later in life. If a droopy eyelid is present at birth or within the first year of life, the condition is called congenital ptosis. In most cases of congenital ptosis, the problem is isolated and mild and does not affect the vision. Children with congenital ptosis need vision evaluation on a regular basis to ensure that the vision is not affected. If amblyopia or weak vision is detected, these children require surgery to raise the upper eyelid.
Your ophthalmologist at Fort Worth Eye Associates can provide you with more information specific to your case. The above information is not intended to replace a personal exam, medical diagnosis, and/or complete treatment description by an ophthalmologist.