Ptosis Correction
Congenital ptosis causes the eyes to appear half-closed, as if the person is sleepy. The condition is persistent and usually affects one eye, though both eyes may be affected. It results from an abnormality in the muscle that lifts the eyelid, preventing the eye from opening fully. Possible causes include a congenital defect, an injury, or abnormalities of the muscles or nerves. Congenital ptosis is the most common type.
There Are Two Surgical Methods
- For mild or moderate cases, the doctor performs a procedure similar to double-eyelid surgery, shortening the muscle used to open the eye with sutures. This helps the drooping eye open more fully (levator plication).
- For severe cases the doctor uses a muscle from the forehead instead, hiding the incision above the eyebrow to help lift the eyelid (frontalis sling).
Surgical Steps
- The doctor will assess the severity of the drooping eyelid and test the function of the muscle that lifts it to choose the surgical approach: suturing the muscle or using the forehead muscle to lift the eyelid.
- Local anesthetic is injected into the eyelid.
- The eyelid-lifting muscle is sutured to raise it.
- The incision is closed.
Postoperative Care
- Initially, swelling may be greater than after double-eyelid surgery because this procedure is performed at a deeper level. To reduce swelling, sleep with your head elevated and apply cold compresses to both eyes 4 times a day for about 5-7 days.
- For about 1-2 weeks, apply eye ointment every night before bed. At first, you may not be able to close your eyes completely. If the cornea is exposed, it can gradually dry out and develop an ulcer if you do not apply the ointment.
- Take all medication as prescribed. If you have an allergic reaction, such as itching, a red rash, nausea, vomiting, or chest tightness, stop taking the medication immediately and see a doctor promptly.
- Return for suture removal 5-7 days after surgery.
- After the sutures are removed, the eyes may remain swollen for about 2 weeks to 1 month. The surgical site should heal and look natural by around 3 months.
- If there is bruising around the incision, you may apply warm compresses starting 2 weeks after surgery, about 2-3 times a day for 3-5 days.
- If you notice any unusual symptoms around the incision, such as significant eye redness, irritation, or the incision opening, see a doctor immediately.
- You can wear contact lenses after 7-14 days.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking for 2 weeks after surgery.
Ptosis Correction Results Gallery
Surgical Procedure
