Ptosis Repair

Causes of drooping eyelids

Drooping eyelids, or ptosis, may be congenital, the result of injury or acquired over time as muscles thin and stretch through the normal aging process. Drooping occurs when the muscles that lift the eyelid are not strong enough to do so properly. This sometimes requires surgical correction. People with ptosis commonly complain that they always look “tired”. This is often associated with loss of peripheral vision.

Ptosis repair

In some cases, surgical repair of the tendon that holds the eyelid up in a normal anatomic position will increase the field of vision. After the procedure, patients will notice improvement in their peripheral vision and feel less fatigued.

Anesthesia

Ptosis repair is normally performed on an outpatient basis under a local anesthesia with sedation, or “twilight”.

Recovery

You will go home the same day as the procedure. There is minimal pain after the procedure, although some discomfort is expected.

Temporary blurred vision is normal. Ice packs are recommended the first 24 hours.

Bending and heavy lifting should be minimized. Swelling and bruising around the eyes lasts for one to two weeks.

You will be asked to stop aspirin and other blood thinners prior to surgery to minimize bruising and prevent excess bleeding during the operation. Most patients can return to work after one week.

Eyelid tissue tends to heal very well with little scarring. Since the incision is made in the crease of the eyelid, any residual scar is naturally hidden.