Ptosis or a drooping upper eyelid makes one eye look smaller, blocks the upper field of vision, and can leave you looking tired even when you are not. In adults it develops slowly with age. In children it is present from birth and needs early attention to protect sight.
Ptosis surgery raises the eyelid to its correct height, restoring both vision and a natural, rested appearance. The right operation depends entirely on why the eyelid is drooping – which is why consulting an oculoplasty specialist is of great importance.
Why Does Ptosis Happen?
Congenital ptosis – the eyelid muscle has not developed completely
Marcus Gunn jaw-winking ptosis – the eyelid moves when the child chews
Age-related (aponeurotic) ptosis – The lid muscle gradually stretches as a part of natural aging.
Long-term contact lens wear, particularly hard lenses
Previous eye surgery, including cataract surgery
Chronic eye rubbing, lid swelling, or injury
Neurological and muscular causes – third nerve palsy, Horner’s syndrome, myasthenia gravis, CPEO.
In adults, ptosis surgery is performed under local anaesthesia with or without light sedation, as a day-care procedure. Surgery takes roughly 45 minutes. You remain awake and comfortable, and will be asked to open and close your eyes during the operation which allows the height to be adjusted and matched to the other side while you are sitting upright.
Children are operated under general anaesthesia.
Swelling and bruising peak. Cold compresses and head elevation help considerably.
Sutures removed. Most bruising is now concealable with spectacles or makeup.
Swelling settles fully; final height and crease become apparent.
Antibiotic ointment and lubricating drops for the first few weeks. Avoid swimming, gym and eye rubbing for 2 weeks. Reading and screens are fine within 1-2 days.
Review appointments at week 2 and week 6.
If your eyelid has begun to droop – or you are simply told you look tired when you are not – one consultation will establish the cause and whether surgery will help. Begin a conversation by Whatsapping +919391521982 to know more.
No. The eyelid is numbed thoroughly; most patients describe pressure rather than pain. Discomfort afterwards is mild and managed with simple painkillers.
Ptosis surgery results are long-lasting in age related ptosis. Ageing continues, so gradual change over many years is normal, but repeat surgery is uncommon.
Not usually. Where it is caused by myasthenia gravis or a nerve palsy, treating the underlying condition may improve the lid. Otherwise surgery is the definitive treatment.
Where ptosis genuinely obstructs vision it is a functional rather than cosmetic procedure and may be covered, depending on your policy.
Dr Sumer Doctor consults and operates at Doctor Eye Institute, Andheri, Mumbai and can be contacted for an in person or online consultation
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