The type of treatment required depends on the cause of ptosis. Surgery is usually the recommended treatment for drooping eyelids.

The surgery is performed by an ophthalmologist on an outpatient basis, usually under a local anaesthetic.

The main goal of surgery is to elevate the upper eyelid to permit better vision and attempt to achieve a reasonable amount of symmetry. Good to excellent results can be achieved although perfect symmetry may not always be obtained.

For congenital ptosis, it is not always possible to achieve complete symmetry of both lid positions and function after surgery due to the abnormal function. Hence, patients may still have a drooping lid on up-gaze and the white of the eye (sclera) will become visible on down-gaze. There may also be inadequate lid closure during sleep. Congenital ptosis is usually repaired in childhood if it is severe and obstructs vision. If mild, it can be repaired either in later childhood or early adulthood

Ptosis in both children and adults can be treated with surgery to improve vision as well as cosmetic appearance. It is very important that children with ptosis have regular ophthalmic examinations early in life to protect them from the serious consequences of untreated amblyopia.