What Is Ptosis Repair Surgery?

Ptosis is a condition in which the upper eyelid droops down over the eye, partially—or sometimes completely—blocking a full range of vision. It can affect one eyelid (unilateral ptosis) or both (bilateral ptosis), often to varying degrees throughout the day. Ptosis repair is a surgical procedure that lifts the eyelid by tightening the muscle responsible for keeping it open. Dr. Michael Connor has years of experience performing eyelid procedures and repairs, offering results that restore both function and a more alert appearance.

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Who Can Benefit From Ptosis Repair?

Although its cause is often unclear, the most common reason for developing ptosis is improper functioning of the levator muscle. This major muscle is responsible for elevating the upper lid. Some people are born with a droopy eyelid (congenital ptosis), but ptosis is more commonly a result of aging, trauma, or muscular or neurological disease. Occasionally, ptosis is a symptom of an underlying ocular condition and should be evaluated by an ophthalmologist. Those struggling with this concern may feel self-conscious and have difficulty seeing. Thankfully, anyone with this condition can be a good candidate to receive treatment.

How Does Ptosis Repair Work?

Ptosis can usually be addressed with a minor, outpatient surgical procedure. Depending on the patient’s unique needs and goals, Dr. Connor can treat ptosis by reattaching stretched muscles to their proper location, shortening the congenitally non-developed levator muscle, or utilizing a “sling” that enables the forehead to elevate the eyelid in cases where the levator muscle does not function due to neurologic or medical cause.

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What Are the Benefits of Ptosis Repair?

After a successful ptosis repair surgery, you can enjoy major improvements in your vision through parts of your eye that were previously covered by upper eyelid drooping. In addition, you will see an improvement in eyelid symmetry, height, and contour.

You will also look much more awake, refreshed, and younger, positively impacting your self-esteem. Dr. Michael Connor works hard to restore the normal anatomical appearance of your eyelids while minimizing any post-procedure scarring.

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What Can I Expect During the Treatment?

To correct a minor degree of eyelid drooping, the ptosis repair procedure can often be performed without making a skin incision. For moderate to significant amounts of ptosis, however, a small, hidden skin incision is made in the eyelid crease or on the backside of the eyelid – both of which typically leave no noticeable scarring. Ptosis repair surgery generally takes about one hour to complete, though the exact length of time will depend on the complexity of the procedure. After treatment, patients are usually able to return home with the help of a friend or family member.

What Is Recovery Like After the Procedure?

Following ptosis repair surgery, the majority of individuals are able to go back to work and resume non-strenuous daily routines within one week, with all restrictions typically being lifted after about four weeks.

Some initial swelling and/or bruising in the upper eyelid region can be expected, but these symptoms should fade rather quickly. If needed, any discomfort experienced can be effectively controlled with medication.

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Ptosis Repair in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida

Palm Beach Gardens oculoplastic surgeon Michael Connor, MD, is considered one of the top eyelid surgeons in South Florida. As an eyelid surgery expert, Dr. Connor is happy to provide his ptosis repair procedure to the wonderful Florida community. For more information on our surgical treatments, please contact Oculoplastic & Orbital Consultants today by calling (561) 845-6500 or filling out the form below.

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