Renowned veteran actress Zeenat Aman, known for her iconic roles in films like ‘Satyam Shivam Sundaram,’ ‘Hare Rama Hare Krishna,’ and ‘Don,’ recently shared a deeply personal chapter of her life with her fans. In a candid Instagram post, she disclosed her enduring struggle with a 40-year-old injury called ptosis that had gradually impacted her vision.
Zeenat’s revelation detailed her decision to undergo surgery to correct the long-standing issue. She explained, “I have a condition known as ptosis – the result of an injury I suffered many decades ago that damaged the muscles around my right eye. Over the years, it caused my eyelid to droop further and further. And a few years ago, it became so acute that it began to obstruct my vision.”
She candidly addressed the challenges that come with a career deeply intertwined with appearance, saying, “When so much of one’s career is predicated on one’s appearance, coming to terms with a dramatic change to it is difficult. I know for a fact that this ptosis narrowed my opportunities and made me the subject of unwanted attention. But despite the gossip, the comments, and the questions, I never felt diminished by it.”
After years of unsuccessful treatments, Zeenat Aman’s journey took a turn this year when a leading ophthalmologist offered hope. “Then this year in April, a leading ophthalmologist informed me that things had advanced, and surgery to lift the eyelid and restore my field of vision was possible. I dithered for a long time, then underwent a battery of tests, and finally committed to the procedure.”
The actress expressed her initial fears on the day of the surgery but highlighted the invaluable support from her loved ones. “That morning in the hospital I was terrified. My extremities turned icy, and involuntarily shivers racked my body. Zahaan kissed my forehead, reassured me, and wheeled me to the OT, where I surrendered to the hands of my medical team. I emerged from there an hour later – alive, well, and looking like a pirate with an eye patch.”
Zeenat Aman’s journey of recovery is ongoing, but she shared with happiness, “I’m happy to share that my vision is so much clearer now.” Her unwavering spirit and resilience continue to inspire her fans and all those who have admired her illustrious career in the world of cinema.