Eyelid ptosis can also be known as an upper eyelid that droops. If the edge of the lid droops down enough, a person’s eyesight is affected and in some cases can block vision. In some severe cases of ptosis, some may need to tilt their head back some in order to see and they may even need to use a finger to lift the droopy eyelid out of the way.
Causes of Ptosis
Congenital ptosis is seen at birth and is caused from a muscle that is poorly developed. However, it’s more commonly seen in adults where the eyelid muscle thins and causes the drooping eyelid. It happens with age, from some type of trauma, tumors, with those who wear contact lenses and even some neurological problems including myopathy or nerve palsy.
Who is a Good Candidate for Ptosis Repair?
You will be referred to an oculoplastic surgeon who will examine your eye or eyes. They will take a look at both the upper as well as the middle part of your face to see if they notice any asymmetry. They will also take some measurements of the eyelids and photos are taken as well. Your surgeon also examines the surface under the lids as well as the front surface with a microscope. They will then give you your options.
The Ptosis Treatment
For the surgery, you are usually only under local anesthesia and is done in a day. Drops of anesthetic are placed on the eyes and you will also have anesthetic placed in the upper eyelids to help with the numbing. An incision is made where your natural crease is and the muscle that helps to raise the eyelid is shortened to better lift the lid. There will be dissolving sutures placed on the inside of the lid as well as on the skin.
After Surgery
You may be advised to wear an eye patch for at least 24-48 hours after the procedure. You may notice some swelling in the upper eyelid for about a week or so. You should make sure the wound is clean at all times and you should also keep it dry. There should not be any type of discharge coming from the wound and if you do notice some you should notify your surgeon at once. Your doctor will give you detailed directions on how to care for your wound and you may or may not be prescribed with an antibiotic cream or ointment to use on the wound.
Are There Risks With This Procedure?
There are some minimal risks as there are with any procedure. Some of the common risks that are associated with this procedure include:
• Some swelling or possible bruising of the eye area
• Some infection from the wound
• Sometimes the eyelid may be too corrected leading in a high eyelid
• There may be under correction meaning the eyelid is too low and a second surgery may be required
• Some may notice it hard to close their eyelid that may be either permanent or even temporary. In this case lubricant eye drops may be needed.
Benefits of the Surgery
There are benefits to the surgery and can include:
• Symmetry and cosmesis are improved
• Appearance of the eyelid looks normal again
• Visual field is improved as well as the quality of vision from where the eye was covered
Costs
The cost of ptosis surgery can vary depending on many factors. The calibre of your surgeon, the location, the type of surgery required and other factors affect the cost. In some cases, insurance may cover the cost of the procedure if ptosis becomes a problem and affects your vision drastically. The average cost of the procedure can range from $1,500 to $5,000.
Choosing a Ptosis Procedure Surgeon
When it comes to choosing a surgeon, it does not matter what the procedure is, you need to feel comfortable with them. It is ok to ask questions and also asking for photos to see the type of work they deliver. When it comes down to it, it is all about how you personally feel about the surgeon.