Ptosis is derived from the Greek word for ‘falling’ and refers to the drooping of a body part.1 The term is commonly associated with drooping of the eyelid – more specifically called blepharoptosis. Ptosis can occur in all age groups and may be caused by various factors.
With relevance to aesthetic practitioners, ptosis may occur as an adverse reaction following botulinum toxin treatment, and therefore is an important issue to be aware of. Botulinum toxin is administered to provide facial rejuvenation, which might result in muscle weakness and potentially lead to eyelid or eyebrow droop.
Upper eyelid ptosis may occur when treating the glabellar complex. Botulinum toxin diffuses through the orbital septum, affecting the lid elevator muscle as it transverses the pre-periosteal plane, or the toxin may track along the tributaries of the superior ophthalmic vein.2
Drooping of the upper eyelid causes a poor cosmetic appearance and can significantly impair vision. Various studies suggest an incidence of 1-5%, with the lower incidence occurring when treatment is…
