Eyelid Surgery to Treat Ptosis
What is Ptosis
Ptosis is the condition that occurs when the upper eyelid droops. Besides creating a tired or intoxicated expression, ptosis may impede vision, due to its covering of the pupil slightly or entirely. In the most extreme case, ptosis may make it impossible to lift your eyelid without using your hands to lift it up.
Ptosis may be present at birth; this is called congenital ptosis. The most common form of ptosis, when it is not present at birth, is called senile, or age-related ptosis. Ptosis can be caused by nerve problems, muscle diseases or eye problems. If you have ptosis, a medical evaluation is needed to ensure it does not relate to a larger health problem.
As far as looks go, ptosis makes the affected eye seem to be smaller than it actually is. You also may lose definition in your upper eyelid crease. A common mechanical response to re-open your eyelid is to raise the eyebrows, which is known to cause headaches and can create a look of shock or asymmetry.
Treatments For Ptosis
Surgery is virtually the only surefire way to treat this condition. Blepharoplasty, also known as eyelid surgery, can only improve the appearance of the eyelid. Eyelid surgery has many medical benefits; it can improve the following: drooping skin, excess fatty deposits that create “puffy eyes,” bags under the eyes, excess skin on the lower eyelid. For ptosis repair, more specific surgical maneuvers need to be performed.
The surgery performed on ptosis usually involves tightening the levator muscle – the muscle that raises the upper eyelid- as a means of lifting the resting position of the eyelid margin. In other cases, the muscle has fully detached from the upper eyelid structures and needs to be re-attached again.
The most suitable candidates for eyelid surgery are healthy individuals without medical conditions or illnesses that may prevent healing. Those without serious eye conditions are good candidates, and smokers do not qualify.
About Our NYC Eyelid Surgeon
Dr. Westreich is a able to treat some forms of ptosis. In more complicated cases, he may enlist the assistance of an ophthalmologic surgeon. He is double-board certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology. He has an academic appointment with SUNY Downstate Medical Center and is on staff at Lenox Hill, Mount Sinai, Roosevelt, and Methodist Hospitals. One of his many specialties is eyelid rejuvenation. If you have ptosis, you may qualify for surgery if you meet the above criteria, but it is best to schedule a consultation with Dr. Westreich. He will work with you to determine what the best option for your condition is and deliver a safe surgery that will deliver a youthful look.