What is the term for drooping upper eyelids?

The term for drooping upper eyelids is "ptosis." This condition can occur due to various factors, including aging, neurological issues, or muscle weakness, especially affecting the levator palpebrae superioris muscle, which is responsible for lifting the eyelid.

In contrast, "pterygium" refers to a growth of tissue on the conjunctiva that can encroach upon the cornea, it isn't related to eyelid drooping. "Epicanthus" describes a fold of skin that covers the inner corner of the eye, often seen in various populations, but does not pertain to the position of the eyelid itself. "Ectropion," on the other hand, is a condition where the eyelid turns outward, leading to exposure of the inner eyelid surfaces, and is also distinct from ptosis.

Understanding the distinctions among these terms helps underscore the specific nature of ptosis as a medical condition and its implications for eyelid function.