Ptosis Crutches & Eyewear Modifications | Global Eyelid Support Solutions

At Crystal Eyecare in Red Bank, New Jersey, USA, we specialize in providing globally trusted non-surgical solutions for individuals with eyelid ptosis, commonly known as droopy eyelids. Our custom ptosis crutches and frame modifications help lift the eyelid, improving vision and appearance without the need for surgery.

What Are Ptosis Crutches?

Ptosis crutches are thin, lightweight metal bars attached to eyeglass frames. Positioned inside the upper eyewire, these crutches gently support drooping eyelids caused by weak or malfunctioning eyelid muscles. This method is widely recognized as a non-invasive, conservative option suitable for individuals who are not candidates for surgical procedures like blepharoplasty or ptosis repair or do not wish to have a surgical intervention

Benefits of Ptosis Crutches

• Non-surgical, adjustable, and reversible

• Custom-fitted for individual anatomy and frame style

• Recognized solution for eyelid support

• Immediate improvement in field of vision

According to evidence-based resources such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and PubMed, ptosis crutches are a validated conservative management option for eyelid ptosis in medically complex cases.

How Ptosis Crutches Are Fitted

1. Frame Selection: We recommend high-quality metal frames rich in copper or noble metals. Stainless steel is also acceptable. Titanium and low-grade alloys are not suitable due to soldering limitations.

2. Precision Measurement:

   • Height from upper eyewire to eyelid (typically 15–20 mm)

   • Eyelid shape and blink function assessed

3. Attachment Process:

   • Secure soldering of crutches at two points for stability

   • Protective coatings applied for comfort and skin safety

4. Optional Strap Support:

   • Eyewear straps may be recommended to prevent slippage due to the added weight of ptosis crutches.

Who Can Benefit?

• Adults and children (above the age of 5) with congenital or acquired ptosis

• Individuals seeking non-surgical eyelid support

• Patients recovering from neuromuscular conditions affecting eyelid function

If you experience eyelid drooping that obstructs your vision or causes cosmetic concerns, ptosis crutches may be the ideal solution.

Why Choose Crystal Eyecare?

• Experienced opticians with expertise in ptosis frame modification

• Customized solutions backed by evidence-based optometric care

• Friendly service available to local and global patients

How to Get Started

Book your consultation today by calling +1-732-615-9300 or visit our website:
www.crystaleyecarenj.com

 

How does the Ptosis Crutch work?

The bar acts as a wedge between the loose skin and the frame. Depending on how much loose skin, the excess lid drapes over the bar. The ptosis crutch is usually a last resort due to the surgical options available to patients, but we have seen patients who for other medical reasons refuse or run out of surgical interventions due to lack of lid and/or levator muscle are excellent candidates for ptosis crutches.

How do I get Ptosis Crutches?

Remote & In-Office Consultations Available

We serve both local and international patients. To begin:

1. Submit photos (front, left profile, right profile)

2. Send a short video showing eyelid function during blinking

3. Select appropriate frames with metal construction

4. Provide medical history related to eyelid or ocular health

Our team can guide you through the process remotely or in person at our Red Bank, NJ location.

If you’d like Crystal Eyecare to make you a pair of ptosis crutches. The easiest way would be to come on in. That said, I know this service is difficult to locate.  To receive this service from us in your area, I’ve provided some instructions.

With the intended metal frames on:

• Please provide a picture of the right side and left side profile.
• Provide a picture of the patient looking at the distance.
• Provide a 1 minute video of the patient. I’m looking to see if there are any blepharospasms or apraxia of the eye lids.
• Make sure the frame you select is of high quality. A high quality frame would be a frame made of a “low zinc” content. The easiest way to test is to scratch the paint off in a discreet area and look for a yellow/red copper color. If it’s gray, that may indicate the frame is of poor quality. Stainless steel frames would be a good 2nd choice, but titanium would not be acceptable. Frames from Walmart or Zenni optical are composed of alloys that do not lend themselves to soldering.
• The diagnosis, if any.

It can’t be emphasized enough that the frames have to be high quality with a high content of copper or noble metals, like silver or gold, which work best for soldering. Please note that the frame will have the paint scorched. I also recommend a frame strap with rubber tips. The ptosis crutch exerts a forward pressure and the strap counter-acts the frame slipping forward leading to a more predictable and comfortable pressure.

How Do I Adjust My Ptosis Crutches?

A note on blepharospasms. Ptosis crutches can assist keeping the eye open, but it is not as elegant a solution as one might hope. A few patients with various blepharospasms have requested it with mixed results. We have not found a criteria for why it helps in one case vs another.