What is Ptosis?

Ptosis (pronounced “TOH-sis”) occurs when the upper eyelid droops over the eye. This is defined by where the edge of the eyelid sits covering the iris or pupil, differentiating it from dermatochalasis which is excess eyelid skin. This is one of the most commonly treated conditions in our office.

Ptosis can occur in adults and children, and can have a myriad of different reasons. Infants can be born with congenital ptosis. In adults, diseases that affect the muscles or nerves can weaken the eyelid muscle function and cause ptosis. But most commonly, ptosis is involutional, meaning the muscle has stretched away from its insertion which allows the eyelid to droop.

How is Ptosis treated?

Ptosis is generally treated with surgery. Depending on the severity of the ptosis and underlying cause, there are three different ways of surgically repairing ptosis: levator advancement, mullerectomy, and frontalis suspension. The choice of surgical approach often depends on the amount of ptosis and how well the muscle functions.

What is ptosis surgery like?

Adult ptosis surgery is an outpatient procedure, commonly performed with local anesthetic to numb the area. Additional intravenous sedation by an anesthesiologist can be given for increased comfort or anxiety. Oftentimes the surgery is short only requiring a reattachment of the muscle, others can be more complex. There are always risks with surgery, including risk of revision and dry eyes, and your surgeon will discuss these with you. Recovery involves two weeks of down-time without exercise or make up, though swelling can take a few months to subside.

Explore More Reconstructive Solutions

We provide essential reconstructive procedures aimed at improving eye function and health. Our approach prioritizes both aesthetic and functional outcomes to ensure your eyes look their best and perform optimally. Whether you are seeking to restore vision, improve eye health, or enhance your appearance, we’re here to provide expert care tailored to your individual needs.

Eyelid Malpositions

Eyelid malposition surgery corrects abnormal eyelid positioning, such as drooping or turning inward/outward, to restore proper function and appearance.

Ptosis

Ptosis surgery corrects drooping of the upper eyelid by tightening the muscles, improving vision and creating a more natural, lifted appearance.

Eyelid Cancers

Periocular skin cancer treatment involves removing cancerous growths around the eyes, often with surgery, to prevent spread and preserve eye function.

Eyelid Lesions

Eyelid lesion treatment involves removing or managing benign or malignant growths on the eyelid to and can often be treated the same day in-office with local anesthetic.

Explore Cosmetic Solutions

We offer a variety of cosmetic oculoplastic surgeries designed to enhance the appearance of the eyes and surrounding areas. These procedures include upper and lower eyelid blepharoplasty, brow lifts, and treatments for wrinkles and fine lines. Our goal is to help you achieve a refreshed, natural look that complements your facial features.

Upper Eyelid Blepharoplasty

One of the most commonly performed cosmetic surgeries. Addresses excess skin, puffiness and droopiness of the upper eyelids to restore a more well-rested and youthful appearance.

Lower Eyelid Blepharoplasty

Lower eyelid blepharoplasty is a surgery that addresses the excess skin and appearance of “bags” underneath the eyes by reducing or repositioning the fat.

Asian Eyelid Blepharoplasty

Often of specific interest to patients with Asian eyelids who wish to augment the height of the natural eyelid crease, or creating a more visible eyelid fold.

Brow Lift

A brow lift is a cosmetic procedure that raises the eyebrows and smooths forehead lines to create a more youthful and refreshed appearance.

CO2 Laser

With CO2 laser skin resurfacing there is the ability to create younger, smoother and fresher skin by removing surface imperfections and reducing the lines and wrinkles.

TCA Peel

Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) can be used at the time of blepharoplasty to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by stimulating collagen production.

Conditions

Learn more about some of the globally recognized conditions that affect the eye such as Orbital Disease, Thyroid Eye Disease, Lacrimal Disease, and Anophthalmic Socket.

Patient Resources

Browse our collection of helpful patient resources covering such topics as how to schedule an appointment, Pre-op and Post-op procedures, and special instructions for Out of Town patients.

Trust your eyelids to the experts

Whether you are seeking to restore vision, improve eye health, or enhance your appearance, we’re here to provide expert care tailored to your individual needs.