Ptosis or Droopy Eyelid Surgery
Ptosis is the medical term for drooping of the upper eyelid, a condition that may affect one or both eyes. When the edge of the eyelid falls, it may block the upper field of your vision. Symptoms of ptosis include decreased ability to keep your eyes open, eye strain and eyebrow fatigue from the increased effort needed to raise your eyelids, and fatigue especially when reading. In severe cases, it may be necessary to tilt your head back or lift the eyelid with a finger in order to see out from under the drooping eyelid(s). Droopy eyelids (ptosis) also cause a “tired appearance” even though a person is well rested.
BENEFITS OF UPPER EYELID SURGERY FOR PTOSIS REPAIR:
- Upper Eyelid surgery corrects droopy upper eyelids – safely & effectively
- Upper Eyelid surgery elevates the upper lid to the desired level
- Upper Eyelid surgery restores the normal field of vision
- Upper Eyelid surgery can achieve symmetry with the other eyelid
- Upper Eyelid surgery restores normal function to the upper eyelid(s)
- Upper Eyelid surgery corrects ptosis in children to allow for normal visual development
ABOUT ACQUIRED PTOSIS:
Acquired ptosis may occur with aging, by trauma, from muscular or neurologic disease and is most commonly due to a stretched levator muscle in the eyelid. The levator muscle is the major muscle responsible for elevating the upper eyelid. Interference with the nerve supply to this muscle is a second cause for acquired ptosis. Upper eyelid ptosis is common after cataract surgery. Damage to the oculomotor nerve, which stimulates the levator muscle, or severe trauma to the eye’s orbit that injures the tendon connecting the levator muscle to the eyelid are other causes. Acquired ptosis is associated with the first signs of Horner’s syndrome, a neurologic condition that affects one side of the face indicating injury to part of the sympathetic nervous system.
PTOSIS – UPPER EYELID SURGERY PROCEDURE:
Dr. Cole performs two basic surgeries to correct ptosis. The strength of the muscle in the eyelid determines which operation is performed. Surgery is usually performed using sedation anesthesia.
- Tightening/Resection involves tightening and resectioning the levator muscle. This is done if the muscle strength is great enough and can elevate the eyelid.
- Frontalis Suspension
If the muscle strength is poor Dr. Cole uses this procedure to correct the droopy eyelid. Using the strength of the eyebrow muscle (frontalis muscle) works well. A tiny silicone rod/band is passed inside the eyelid and up into the eyebrow muscle where it is secured. This is often called a “sling.” This elevates the lid and allows the eyebrow muscle to control the lid height.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT PTOSIS SURGERY:
Is Surgery Done On Children Who Have Ptosis?
YES. It is necessary to have corrective surgery performed on children with ptosis in both eyes so that proper visual development can take place.
Is There Any Cosmetic Benefit To Having Upper Eyelid Surgery?
YES. In addition to correcting the functional problems caused by ptosis, Dr. Cole’s eyelid surgery also achieves a more youthful look by restoring the eyelids to a more desirable position.
What Is The Main Benefit Of Upper Eyelid Surgery For Ptosis?
The main goal of ptosis surgery is to elevate the upper eyelid to restore the normal field of vision. A secondary benefit is achieving symmetry with the opposite upper eyelid.
Is Surgery Always The Only Treatment For Ptosis?
YES. Surgery is required to correct the stretched levator muscle which then elevates the eyelid to a more desirable height. This can only be accomplished surgically.
Can A General Surgeon Perform Corrective Surgery For Ptosis?
Experts recommend an Ophthalmic Plastic and reconstructive surgeon for this surgery. An Ophthalmic plastic and reconstructive surgeon has specialized in diseases and conditions affecting the eyelids, the lacrimal (tear) system, the orbit (bone cavity around the eye), and adjacent facial structures. The rigorous training required to become board certified in this field ensures this surgeon has special training and expertise in this subspecialty – along with much more experience than other surgeons. Dr. Cole is in this special league of surgeons worldwide.
Will Insurance Cover Eyelid Surgery For Ptosis?
YES – since this is a medically necessary procedure your insurance should pay for it.
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BOARD CERTIFICATION
Dr. Cole is a quadruple board certified surgeon which means he has met the rigorous high standards and training requirements of four medical boards. This involved several years more of specialized training and experience in all four areas – in addition to medical school, internships, residencies, fellowship training and vast experience. Board certification does not guarantee a certain outcome, but it does ensure specialized training skill and expertise far beyond the norm.
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