Ptosis is an unfortunate condition in which the upper eyelids begin to sag and droop, either due to natural causes or some manner of traumatic impact. Regardless of the origin of your ptosis, any individual would do well to attempt to remedy this condition. If you have ptosis and would like to know what the repair surgery would entail, this guide outlines the procedural elements of ptosis repair.
What is Ptosis?
Ptosis describes the condition of having drooping or sagging upper eyelids. There are many different sources and expressions of ptosis. Though the condition is not immediately medically concerning, it can lead to issues down the line if not addressed. Specifically, extreme ptosis can impact an individual’s ability to see clearly and, in turn, create difficulty functioning in everyday life. Overall, it behooves one to remedy ptosis as soon as possible and prevent future inconveniences.
The Primary Symptoms of Ptosis
There are many different symptoms of ptosis that can be identified, and getting to know them can help you determine whether or not this issue is developing before it becomes too severe. The symptoms of ptosis include the following:
- Your eyelid appears to be sagging or drooping.
- Your upper eyelid completely or almost completely covers your eyelid.
- You experience increased tearing.
- You have begun to rub your eye more often than usual.
- Your vision has become impaired.
- You have experienced a sense of aching surrounding your eyes.
- In extreme cases, you may need to tip your head back to see.
Your physician should be able to determine whether your particular issues are indeed ptosis during a pre-surgical consultation. This will determine the severity of your case and the subsequent treatment method.
Blepharoplasty and Ptosis
Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is the primary method of repairing ptosis. There are many different forms of blepharoplasty, but the one that is primarily useful in treating ptosis is upper blepharoplasty. An upper blepharoplasty can seriously improve one’s prospects for eliminating ptosis and allow one to move forward with regular activity as soon as possible.
There are several types of blepharoplasty, each designed to address different elements of eye issues. In the case of ptosis, an upper blepharoplasty is called for, as this is the surgery used to repair issues of the eyelid.
What Does Ptosis Repair Surgery Entail?
During a blepharoplasty, you will be placed on either general or local anesthesia to protect yourself from some of the harsher elements of the surgical procedure. After this, your physician will perform the routine elements of a blepharoplasty.
Blepharoplasty involves manipulating the tissues and skin of the eyelids to eliminate either aesthetic or medical issues. The steps of the procedure include:
- The surgeon makes an opening in the skin of the upper eyelid.
- The physician locates the muscle that influences the position of one’s eyelids.
- Stitches are placed to tighten this muscle and raise the eyelids.
- The incision is closed with more stitches.
After the surgery, your surgeon will give you instructions on how to care for your results and preserve their positioning. You might be called back to the doctor’s office to discuss any further steps that should be taken to preserve your results.
Some elements of your surgery, including the preparation and recovery period, can be personal. Many of the elements of your procedure will relate to the general level of severity of your ptosis situation. Your physician and you will discuss this prior to your procedure.
The Best Eyelid Surgeon in Miami
Dr. Sarah Avila and her team of medical professionals are entirely dedicated to offering patients the best service possible. If you are looking to receive treatment from a cosmetic plastic surgeon in Miami, contact Dr. Avila today to discuss your options.