Ptosis Repair

Ptosis refers to when the upper eyelid droops over the pupil, reducing the field of vision and causing the eyes to look extra sleepy. Typically, this condition happens over an extended period of time, as the upper eyelid muscle tissue gradually stretches with age.

However, in some cases, ptosis can occur in children or adults due to weakness of the supporting muscle responsible for holding up the eyelid. This can be caused by nerve damage, inflammation, genetics, trauma, or other conditions.

Ptosis repair is a surgery that elevates the eyelid in order to improve the visual field while also delivering a more vibrant, youthful appearance. When the upper eyelids become droopy or ptotic, ptosis repair is often performed in combination with upper blepharoplasty. Once the upper eyelid is reset to an appropriate height, the removal of excess fat and skin contributes to a more youthful, refreshed appearance.

How Do I Know if I Am a Candidate?

If you are experiencing decreased peripheral vision or if you are having to look through your eyelashes due to drooping of the upper eyelid or excess skin, or you would like your eyes to be more open and vibrant, you may be an excellent candidate for ptosis repair. Schedule a consultation right away for ptosis treatment in Boulder. Dr. Cox will thoroughly assess your eyes and face to develop the perfect treatment plan for you.

What Can I Expect from the Procedure?

There are two muscles in the upper eyelid responsible for maintaining the height of the eyelid — the levator muscle and the muller muscle. Depending on the exact nature of the condition for each patient, one of the following surgical approaches will be implemented to adjust the length or position of these muscles.

Internal Surgical Approach

This procedure is performed with local and IV sedation. The incision is placed on the under surface of the upper eyelid, and then the eyelid muscles are shortened from the inside. Dr. Cox will determine exactly which muscles need to be shortened based on whether more or less of the eyelid needs to be elevated. This type of ptosis repair is best for mild cases of ptosis.

External Surgical Approach

In this approach, local and IV sedation is administered to help with relaxation while still allowing communication with the doctor to take place. Dr. Cox can determine the optimal placement of the eyelids by having you perform specific eye movements. Through an incision hidden in the crease of the eyelid, Dr. Cox will reposition the levator muscle and reattach it to the eyelid’s connective tissues (tarsus) in an elevated position that improves your vision while also restoring a youthful attractiveness to the face. This type of ptosis repair is best for mild to moderate ptosis and some cases of severe.

What Is the Recovery Process?

As the anesthesia or sedation wears off, you may experience some manageable discomfort. Bruising and swelling can be minimized by keeping your head elevated while sleeping and gently applying ice or cold compresses to the area. There may be added dryness due to the eye being exposed as it heals. Some suggestions to optimize your recovery after ptosis surgery include:

Limit daily activities for the first week of healing.
Avoid smoking, strenuous exercise, sexual relations, swimming, heavy lifting, or wearing make-up or contact lenses for the first couple weeks.
Refrain from rubbing or irritating the eye.
Keep the eye well-lubricated, in order to prevent any worsening symptoms of dry eye.
Do not use any medications that may thin the blood until cleared by your physician.

Most patients will be fully recovered after about three months, and often report feeling refreshed and overjoyed with the results.