Why does my ptosis get triggered when I feel shy or embarrassed?
APR 16, 2013
Question:
I suffer from moderate congenital ptosis that is not affecting my eyesight, yet my eyelid involuntarily droops completely when I feel shy or embarrassed. I'd like to know what the risks are of having a surgery in this case.
Answer:
It is unusual for shyness to activate a ptosis—but perhaps you have a variant of a Marcus Gunn or jaw winking syndrome. In this situation there is aberrant innervation and movement of the jaw that may trigger a droop of the eyelid. You could consider ptosis surgery, though this is unlikely to improve the variability of the droop, unless an aggressive form of repair is undertaken. Given the unusual nature of your ptosis, a consultation with an ophthalmologist specialized in oculoplastic surgery would help you understand the nature of your eyelid droop and the procedures that are available for your unique situation.