What is lid ptosis surgery?

​Surgery to correct ptosis (a droopy upper eyelid) is indicated to improve the function of the upper eyelid as well as the visual function. In severe ptosis, the upper eyelid will droop down over the pupil and impair vision. In milder cases of ptosis the upper eyelid droops down but does not cover the pupil. It still, however, impairs your field of vision above and to the side. An additional reason for repairing ptosis is to improve your aesthetic appearance by reducing the asymmetry of the upper eyelids.

 

The surgery is undertaken to elevate the position of the droopy upper eyelid. While symmetry with the other eyelid is the ideal goal, this is rarely achieved. A more realistic goal is an improvement in the position of the upper eyelid and a decreased amount of asymmetry. It is also important to realise that more than one operation is commonly necessary to achieve the desired result.

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Goals of the surgery:

• To improve visual function

• To improve upper eyelid function

• To improve your aesthetic appearance

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Risks and considerations:

​While generally safe, potential risks include:

• Undercorrection

• Overcorrection

• Drying out of the eye (exposure keratitis)

• Haemorrhage, bruising and swelling of the eyelids.

• The wound may split. This will necessitate re-suturing of the wound.

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Depending on the cause and type of your ptosis different surgical procedures will be appropriate for your particular case:

• Muller’s muscle resection

• Levator muscle surgery

• Frontalis sling procedure