Ptosis is a condition in which the upper eyelid droops or closes involuntarily. This problem may develop in childhood or adulthood due to a compromised levator muscle or Müller’s muscle. One or both eyes may be affected. In some cases, eyelid droop comes and goes, posing a challenge to an accurate diagnosis. Restore drooping eyelids with expert ptosis repair in Morristown by Dr. Alexandra Braunsteinn. With meticulous care and precision, Dr. Braunstein can correct ptosis, helping you achieve a more youthful and alert appearance
What is Ptosis?
Ptosis is a condition in which the upper eyelid droops or closes involuntarily. This is different from having excess or hooded eyelid skin, which may also make the eyes look droopy. Ptosis may develop in childhood or adulthood as a result of a compromised or stretched eyelid muscle. One or both eyes may be affected. Patients often feel that the droop is more noticeable when they are tired and in photographs.
Causes of Ptosis:
There are two muscles that lift the eyelid, called the Muller’s muscle and the Levator. Ptosis results from an anatomical or functional abnormality of one of these muscles. Potential causes include:
- Congenital ptosis is caused by natural levator muscle weakness.
- Levator aponeurosis dehiscence is a common age-related stretching and thinning of the levator muscle.
- An Infection or inflammation causing significant swelling of the eyelid may lead to stretching of the muscle.
- A growth or tumor on the eyelid or in the eye socket.
- Dysfunction or damage of the nerve innervating one of the muscles.
- A growth such as a sty on the eyelid.
While the primary cause of ptosis is often muscle stretching, a comprehensive examination is essential to evaluate eyelid function, determine the underlying cause, and prescribe the appropriate ptosis repair in Morristown.
What is ptosis surgery:
Ptosis repair is a term that describes various surgical techniques performed to lift the eyelid into the proper position. There are two muscles that lift the eyelid.
The Muller’s muscle is smaller and located on the back (posterior) portion of the eyelid. It lifts the eyelid about 2 millimeters. The other, larger muscle is called the levator and lifts the eyelid 14-15mm. The two common techniques work by tightening one of these muscles.
The Muller’s muscle is tightened via the posterior or internal approach, without a visible scar, in patients with mild ptosis. Levator advancement is often utilized in those with more significant drooping. Either of these procedures can be combined with blepharoplasty surgery when both are necessary for the best results. Dr. Braunstein performs both techniques for ptosis repair to help patients treat drooping eyelids and rejuvenate the eyes.
Recovery & Aftercare
Recovering from ptosis correction surgery usually takes about a week. You may experience swelling and bruising in the first two days, but these should improve rapidly. During this time, it’s recommended to use ice packs to reduce swelling and provide comfort. It’s normal for the eyelids to feel tight and look asymmetrical during the initial stages of recovery due to swelling and healing of the tissues, but these symptoms should improve as the swelling subsides.
A follow-up appointment is usually scheduled 6 days after your ptosis repair in Morristown to monitor your recovery progress and potentially remove any sutures as needed. After about 7 to 10 days, you should be able to resume normal physical activity, but it’s important to follow Dr. Braunstein’s instructions for aftercare. Eye makeup can usually be resumed 12 to 14 days after surgery. Overall, the recovery process after ptosis correction surgery is generally straightforward, and most patients experience no significant complications or long-term effects.
Potential Risks & Complications
Having a board-certified and fellowship-trained oculoplastic surgeon perform ptosis repair is important to minimize the risk of complications. However, even with an experienced surgeon, there are still potential risks associated with the procedure. Some of the most common risks include under or overcorrection, asymmetry, and dry eye. In rare cases, revision surgery or additional procedures may be necessary to further improve the eyelid position.
Before undergoing ptosis repair in Morristown, it’s crucial to have a thorough discussion with Dr. Braunstein about all the potential risks and benefits associated with the procedure. Understanding the potential outcomes will help you make an informed decision and ensure optimal results. However, with the right surgeon and a successful procedure, most patients can achieve the desired improvement in their eyelid position.
Schedule Your Consultation With Dr. Braunstein
As a board-certified oculoplastic surgeon, Dr. Braunstein has the experience to diagnose and treat ptosis effectively. During your consultation, she will evaluate your eyelid position and discuss your goals and concerns to determine the appropriate treatment plan. Dr. Braunstein will answer questions about the procedure, including the risks, benefits, and expected outcomes. By the end of your consultation, you will clearly understand the steps involved in ptosis correction.
