Cosmetic Ptosis Repair
Ptosis correction is a minor surgical procedure, involving tightening of the muscle that lifts the eyelid. This can be performed through the eyelid skin or from the inside of the eyelid. The surgical approach taken depends on specific findings and testing performed during the preoperative evaluation. Incisions for Ptosis repair are typically on the inside of the eyelid and are not visible, once stitches are removed and the full course of healing has taken place. During your consultation wtih Dr. Massry he will examine your eyelids and determine which surgical technique will provide you with the best results.
What is Ptosis?
Ptosis (pronounced “toe-sis”) is a condition in which the upper eyelid droops. This should not be confused with extra skin, fat or muscle to the eyelid, which are typically addressed with blepharoplasty surgery. In Ptosis, the upper eyelid margin (where the eyelashes are) falls to – or covers – the pupil when the eye is open. This leads to visual obstruction.
When Ptosis can be shown to reduce vision (peripheral vision), its correction is covered by most insurance plans. Proving visual deficit requires photo documentation and specialized testing (visual field testing), which can be performed in the office. If the degree of Ptosis is not as severe (does not affect vision), it is considered elective surgery and can be corrected as a cosmetic procedure.
What Causes Ptosis?
Ptosis can be caused by congenital or acquired defects in the muscle (or its tendon), which lifts the eyelid. It is also associated with growths, which weigh the eyelid down, or neurological disease. The most common reason Ptosis occurs is simply weakening of the muscle (or its tendon), which occurs with age.
Ptosis Repair
The goal of cosmetic ptosis repair, is to lift the upper eyelid so that your eyes appear more vibrant and youthful. In more severe cases, ptosis is needed to improve vision when the eyelid begins to droop so much that it is obstructing your field of view.
Ptosis surgery can be more complicated than the more common blepharoplasty procedure and should therefore only be performed by an oculoplastic surgeon who underwent extensive training in this procedure and performs it more often than a general plastic surgeon.
Learn more about what to expect during your ptosis surgery.
For answers to frequently asked questions, head over to our What to Expect page.