Ptosis Repair
Droopy eyelids are not merely a cosmetic concern. For many people, having heavy or droopy eyelids can impact eyesight and daily quality of life if left unaddressed. With ptosis repair at Nevada Eye Plastic Surgery, Dr. Ko can restore the eyelid to a more open position. The results allow patients to not only look more alert and youthful but also alleviate associated ptosis symptoms.
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What Is Eyelid Ptosis?
Eyelid ptosis refers to the drooping of the upper eyelid that can occur due to a range of causes. In most cases, it is tied to genetic causes or age-related changes. However, some patients may experience it following an injury as well. While both children and adults can be affected, it more commonly develops in adulthood. Furthermore, if left untreated, it may progress in some patients, causing increasing issues. For example, patients may notice excessive tearing or eye dryness and itchiness.
Ptosis repair surgery restores the eyelid position. By either tightening a weakened muscle or repositioning key tissues, an oculofacial surgeon can deliver lasting improvements. Additionally, related symptoms should improve. In particular. improvements in one’s field of vision can be quite noticeable.
Key Benefits
- Restore an alert, youthful appearance
- Improve field of vision
- Alleviate symptoms caused by droopy eyelids
- Long-lasting results
- Personalized surgical approach
- Improved confidence in appearance
Overview of a Typical Ptosis Repair Surgery
Droopy eyelid surgery is always personalized for each patient. Thus, while the general outline may remain mostly the same, the techniques used will differ. Each aspect of your procedure is adjusted to promote patient safety and outstanding results. Some key features of your procedure will be:
- Patients receive general or local anesthesia for a pain-free experience.
- Procedure duration is typically about 2 hours on average.
- Incisions are created at the beginning and are all closed by the end.
- Patients can return home the same day after surgery.
Dr. Ko will go over each element of your procedure ahead of time. So you will be fully informed and prepared for your surgery.
How Does Dr. Ko Personalize Ptosis Repair?
Ptosis can affect one or both eyelids, and the approach to correct it depends on the cause. Dr. Ko may focus on tightening the underlying muscles or repositioning them. Another option is to create a sling beneath the skin to keep the eyelids open. Each solution provides results, but it is key to match the right technique to the right patient. Additionally, the final position of the eyelid is designed to match your natural features. Our goal is to ensure eyelid function and maintain a natural overall look. Key elements of an optimal personalization plan include:
- Open communication between patient and surgeon
- A comprehensive exam and consultation
- Effective preparation for the procedure
- Medical history
Recovery Timeline
Patients each recover at a different pace according to their age, health, and post-procedure care. However, a general outline may look as follows.
Weeks 1–2: Patients should take this period off from work and all physical activity. Carefully manage any pain, swelling, and bruising according to your post-procedure instructions. Some patients may have difficulty closing the eyelid, requiring the use of special wetting drops.
Weeks 3–6: The eyelid should be in its new position. Patients can return to work and may have a gradual return to physical activity. You will likely be seen for a follow-up appointment or two during this time.
Week 7 and Beyond: Patients can resume all of their normal physical routine, including strenuous activity. Though virtually unnoticeable, residual swelling can take time to fade. Most patients will have it fully dissipate after 2 to 4 months.
When Can You See the Results?
Results should first be visible once your swelling begins to fade after a couple of weeks. However, even minor swelling can alter the position of the eyelid. So, most patients can see near-final results closer to about 2 to 3 months once the eyelid is fully settled in its new position. In some cases, small adjustments may be made to improve the eyelid position further after healing.
Patients can expect results that last for years in most cases. However, there are a few things you can do on your end to promote higher-quality outcomes and improve result duration. These include:
- Attend all your follow-up visits for updates and monitoring
- Follow all your post-procedure instructions carefully
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle
- Avoid rubbing your eyes (it damages the muscles)
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Book Your Consultation
Learn more about our full suite of oculofacial procedures and start on your path toward seeing relief from the effects of eyelid ptosis today. When you book your consultation for eyelid surgery in Reno with Dr. Ko, you can fully discuss your goals in a one-on-one meeting with a leading oculofacial surgeon. We look forward to helping you see a return to an alert appearance with personalized ptosis repair.
