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Reconstructive Oculoplastics

Ptosis Repair

Evaluation and repair of an upper eyelid that sits lower than expected because of its lifting mechanism.

Overview

What This Evaluation Addresses

Ptosis is drooping of the upper eyelid. It can be age-related, present from birth, follow surgery or trauma, or be associated with neurologic or muscular conditions. The cause, eyelid muscle function, eye movement, pupil findings, and visual impact guide the workup and treatment plan.

Reasons to Seek Evaluation

  • One or both upper eyelids sit low
  • Reduced superior field of view or difficulty with reading
  • Brow lifting or head posture used to see beneath the lid
  • New, changing, or unequal eyelid position

Recovery and Next Steps

Plan Around the Individual Treatment

The repair is selected according to the cause and muscle function. Eyelid height and contour can change during healing, and asymmetry or further adjustment may occur. Sudden ptosis, especially with double vision, pupil change, weakness, or severe headache, needs urgent medical evaluation rather than routine web scheduling.

Common Questions

Is ptosis repair cosmetic?

Ptosis can affect appearance, but it may also affect vision and eyelid function. The evaluation determines the cause and functional impact.

Why are pupils and eye movements checked?

Some neurologic or muscular conditions can cause ptosis, so the examination must look beyond the eyelid itself.

Can both eyelids change after one side is repaired?

The eyelids are neurologically linked, and their relative heights can change. This possibility is part of surgical planning and consent.

American Academy of Ophthalmology: Ptosis

This page provides general education, not a diagnosis or treatment recommendation. Candidacy, risks, alternatives, and recovery must be discussed during an appropriate clinical evaluation. Seek urgent care for sudden or severe eye symptoms.

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