What is ptosis of the upper eyelid, and how should it be managed?

In general, ptosis (drooping of the upper eyelid) may be caused by factors such as eye strain, chronic lack of sleep, aging, genetics, or myasthenia gravis. Symptoms can be improved through treatments including hyaluronic acid fillers, injectable type A botulinum toxin, fractional laser therapy, full-incision double eyelid surgery, and levator muscle shortening surgery.

When excessive use of the eyes—such as prolonged screen time—keeps the eyelid muscles in a constant state of tension, leading to muscle fatigue and laxity that causes ptosis, it is important to rest the eyes regularly. Local massage and warm compresses can help improve symptoms. For ptosis caused by chronic sleep deprivation due to irregular sleep patterns disrupting normal circadian rhythms and impairing ocular blood circulation, avoiding late nights and using eye creams may aid improvement. Age-related ptosis results from loss of skin collagen, atrophy, and loosening of eye tissues; increasing dietary intake of collagen-rich foods such as pig trotters, chicken feet, and donkey-hide gelatin (ejiao) may help. In cases where ptosis arises from neuromuscular transmission dysfunction due to immune system abnormalities, levator muscle shortening surgery can provide direct correction.

Example image of ptosis:

Analysis of ptosis treatment methods:

Procedure Name	Hyaluronic Acid Filler	Injectable Type A Botulinum Toxin	Fractional Laser	Full-Incision Double Eyelid Surgery	Levator Muscle Shortening Surgery
Example Image
Procedure Overview	Provides structural support and lifts the eyelid	Inhibits acetylcholine release, causing gradual muscle relaxation and reduction	Stimulates new collagen production and tightens the eyelid skin	Removes excess fat and skin to create a double eyelid fold	Shortens the levator muscle to enhance its lifting strength
Advantages	1. Natural appearance 2. Effective results	1. Simple procedure 2. Minimal invasiveness	1. Effective results 2. Minimal trauma	1. Noticeable improvement 2. Natural shape	1. Improves eye appearance 2. Natural contour
Duration of Effect	6–12 months	3–6 months	3–5 years	10–20 years	10–20 years
Potential Risks	1. Vascular occlusion 2. Skin necrosis	1. Pain and swelling 2. Bruising	1. Skin burns 2. Hyperpigmentation	1. Bleeding and infection 2. Scar hypertrophy	1. Bleeding and infection 2. Pain and swelling
Reference Price	2,000–8,000 RMB per session	2,000–5,000 RMB per session	2,000–5,000 RMB per session	8,000–20,000 RMB per session	3,000–6,000 RMB per session

It is recommended to visit a reputable hospital and choose the most suitable treatment under professional medical guidance. Avoid excessive eye strain, keep the surgical area clean after procedures, and avoid getting the area wet before suture removal.