Is There a Link Between Ptosis and Headaches?

Ptosis is a common but frustrating eyelid condition – and it gets even more frustrating when it’s accompanied by headaches. Many patients experience both issues but are unsure of whether they’re truly related.

At Ophthalmic Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery, our team helps patients better understand and manage ptosis and the headaches that may occur alongside it. Led by Dr. John B. Holds, an award-winning physician and Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, we provide expert diagnoses and precise care.

What Is Ptosis?

Ptosis occurs when the upper eyelid droops over the eye. Its severity can range from mild sagging to significant vision obstruction.

Ptosis may be congenital or develop later in life due to aging, trauma, or neurological issues. While often considered a cosmetic concern, it can also lead to functional challenges, including eye strain and adjustments in posture to compensate for reduced vision.

How Ptosis Might Cause Headaches

When a drooping eyelid blocks part of your vision, your forehead and scalp muscles may work harder to keep your eyes open. Over time, this extra effort can result in forehead strain and tension headaches.

Your eyes may also become fatigued from constantly trying to focus or adapt to changes in visual input. This fatigue, in turn, can contribute to chronic discomfort and head pain.

Common signs that ptosis may be linked to your headaches include:

• Frequent eyebrow-raising to see more clearly
• Headaches that worsen after visual tasks
• A sense of eye tiredness or heaviness by the end of the day

Many patients find it helpful to keep a headache diary. Tracking symptoms that accompany your headaches, or the times of day when headaches happen, can provide valuable insights.

Can Treating Ptosis Help?

Patients often report headache relief after undergoing ptosis correction. Surgical procedures such as ptosis repair or blepharoplasty are designed to lift the eyelid to its proper position, reducing strain on surrounding muscles and improving overall visual function. These procedures are usually performed on an outpatient basis and have minimal recovery time.

Find Relief from Ptosis and Headaches

If you’re struggling with drooping eyelids and suspect they may be contributing to your headaches, now is the time to act. Call 314-567-3567 to schedule a consultation with Ophthalmic Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery to explore your treatment options. We proudly serve patients in St. Louis, St. Peters, and Arnold, MO, and are here to help you see and feel better.