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Ptosis Surgery
Ptosis surgery is a surgical procedure performed to correct drooping of the eyelid (ptosis). It is an operation performed only in cases of drooping caused by muscle and nerve damage in the upper eyelids. In other words, not every case of drooping of the eyelids develops into ptosis. For this reason, the operation performed only when the drooping is due to muscle weakness is called ptosis surgery. Factors other than muscle weakness that can cause drooping of the upper eyelids include tumour and mass development, accumulation of fatty tissue, and drooping of the eyelid skin layer.
The procedure, performed under local or general anaesthesia, takes approximately 30 minutes for one eye and about 60 minutes for both eyes. Recovery begins within a week after surgery, and it takes about two weeks for the eyelid to settle into its final position.
What Is Eyelid Drooping (Ptosis)?
Ptosis, commonly known as eyelid drooping, is a condition where the upper eyelid falls lower than its normal position. It can partially or completely cover the eye, interfering with both appearance and vision. Ptosis can affect one or both eyes and can vary from mild to severe. While some patients only face cosmetic concerns, in more advanced cases the drooping eyelid can obstruct the visual field, leading to headaches, eye strain, and difficulty in performing daily activities such as reading or driving.
Ptosis should not be confused with all forms of eyelid sagging. True ptosis occurs when the levator muscle, which lifts the eyelid, or its controlling nerve is weakened or damaged. Other eyelid drooping may result from excess skin, fat accumulation, or tumors pressing on the eyelid, which require different treatment approaches.
Causes of Eyelid Drooping (Ptosis)
There are multiple reasons why eyelid drooping develops, and the exact cause determines the appropriate treatment. Common causes include:
- Congenital ptosis: Present at birth due to abnormal development of eyelid muscles.
- Age-related changes: With aging, the levator muscle weakens or stretches, leading to drooping.
- Neurological conditions: Damage to the oculomotor nerve can impair eyelid control.
- Muscle diseases: Disorders like myasthenia gravis can cause muscle weakness, including eyelid muscles.
- Trauma or previous surgeries: Eye injuries or complications from prior eye surgeries may affect muscle function.
- Tumors and lesions: Growths or fat deposits can weigh down the eyelid and mimic ptosis.
Identifying the root cause is essential since treatment differs between muscle-related ptosis and drooping caused by other conditions.
Types of Ptosis
Ptosis can be classified into several categories based on its cause and clinical presentation:
- Congenital Ptosis: Present at birth, caused by poor development of the levator muscle. Often corrected early to prevent amblyopia (lazy eye).
- Aponeurotic Ptosis: The most common form in adults, caused by aging or stretching of the eyelid tendon.
- Neurogenic Ptosis: Related to nerve disorders such as third nerve palsy or Horner’s syndrome.
- Myogenic Ptosis: Caused by muscle disorders, where muscles are unable to contract effectively.
- Mechanical Ptosis: Results from tumors, cysts, scarring, or excess tissue that physically weighs down the eyelid.
Ptosis Surgery (Eyelid Drooping Correction)
Ptosis surgery is the most effective treatment to correct eyelid drooping caused by muscle weakness or nerve impairment. The surgery’s goal is to restore proper eyelid function, improve the field of vision, and achieve a balanced, natural appearance.
The surgical method chosen depends on the severity of the ptosis and the condition of the eyelid muscles:
- Levator muscle resection or advancement: If the muscle still has partial function, it is tightened to lift the eyelid to a natural level.
- Frontalis sling procedure: If the muscle is too weak, the eyelid is attached to the forehead muscles using a sling made of tendon or synthetic material. This allows the forehead muscle to help lift the eyelid.
The surgery is performed under local anesthesia with sedation in adults, and under general anesthesia in children. It usually takes 30–60 minutes per eyelid. Patients can typically return home the same day.
Recovery After Ptosis Surgery
The recovery period following ptosis surgery is relatively short but requires careful attention:
- First days: Swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort around the eyelids are common. Cold compresses and prescribed medication help reduce symptoms.
- Stitches: Sutures are removed within 5–7 days unless dissolvable stitches are used.
- Vision changes: Patients with vision obstruction due to drooping often notice an immediate improvement. Temporary blurred vision may occur but resolves within weeks.
- Daily life: Most patients can return to work or school within 7–10 days. Strenuous activity should be avoided for at least two weeks.
- Final results: The eyelid position continues to stabilize over 6–8 weeks, with natural results becoming more visible as healing progresses.
Post-Surgery Precautions
Following medical advice after ptosis surgery ensures a smooth recovery and optimal outcomes. Patients should:
- Avoid rubbing, pressing, or scratching the eyes.
- Use prescribed antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drops regularly.
- Keep the surgical site clean and dry.
- Protect eyes from sunlight and dust by wearing sunglasses.
- Avoid swimming, heavy lifting, or contact sports until cleared by the surgeon.
- Attend all scheduled follow-up visits for monitoring.
By following these precautions, patients can ensure long-term success and minimize complications.
The Journey of Ptosis Surgery in Turkey
Initial Consultation
Travel and Accommodation
Procedure
Post-Operative Care
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Ptosis Surgery FAQs
Answers to the most searched and asked questions about ptosis surgery, covering causes, treatment, risks, and recovery.