Ptosis Correction Surgery: Restore Eyelid Function & Facial Balance
Key Benefits
- Improved vision by lifting the eyelid away from the pupil
- Rejuvenated, youthful appearance
- Increased eye symmetry
- Reduced eye strain and fatigue
- Enhanced self-confidence and facial expression
Duration
30 -90 mins
Recovery Period
2-4 weeks
What Is Ptosis Correction?
Ptosis is the medical term for a drooping upper eyelid. It can affect one or both eyes and may be present at birth (congenital) or develop over time (acquired). While mild cases may be primarily a cosmetic concern, more severe ptosis can partially or completely obstruct vision, cause eye strain, and impact overall eye health.
Ptosis correction surgery involves tightening or repositioning the eyelid muscles to lift the eyelid and restore proper function and appearance. It addresses both cosmetic concerns and functional issues
Causes of Eyelid Ptosis
Ptosis can develop for various reasons, including:
Congenital
- Congenital muscle weakness
- Age-related changes
- Neurological conditions
- Trauma or previous eye surgery
Acquired
Based on these findings, ptosis is generally classified as mild, moderate, or severe, depending on MRD1 measurements and the degree of functional impairment.
Assessment of Severity
A thorough evaluation is essential to determine the severity of ptosis and guide treatment planning. Your ophthalmologist or plastic surgeon will perform a comprehensive assessment that may include:
- Marginal Reflex Distance (MRD1)
- Levator muscle function
- Visual field testing
- Symmetry assessment
Based on these findings, ptosis is generally classified as mild, moderate, or severe, depending on MRD1 measurements and the degree of functional impairment.
Treatment Options for Ptosis
While very mild ptosis associated with excess eyelid skin may benefit from non-invasive treatments such as radiofrequency skin tightening, the primary treatment for true ptosis is surgery.
The treatment option depends on the underlying cause, severity, and levator muscle function.
- Levator Advancement or Resection
- Müller Muscle-Conjunctival Resection (MMCR)
- Frontalis Sling Surgery
Common procedures include:
Your plastic surgeon will recommend the most appropriate approach based on your individual needs and desired outcome.
Who Is Suitable?
You may be a good candidate if you:
- Have drooping upper eyelids that affect vision or appearance
- Are in good general health with no uncontrolled medical conditions
- Experience eye fatigue or need to lift brows to see clearly
- Are looking for both functional and aesthetic improvement
Adjunct Procedures Often Combined with Treatment
- Upper or lower blepharoplasty
- Brow lift for enhanced upper facial balance
- Canthoplasty or canthopexy for eyelid support
- Laser skin resurfacing around the eyes
Combining procedures may enhance both function and appearance with a single recovery period
What to Expect
- Duration: 30–90 minutes, depending on complexity
- Anesthesia: Local with sedation or general, based on the case
- Technique: Hidden incisions in the eyelid crease to minimize scarring
- Outpatient surgery: You can return home the same day
Recovery Process
- Initial swelling and bruising: Common for 7–10 days
- Sutures: Usually removed in 5–7 days
- Return to work: Most patients resume normal activity within 7–10 days
- Full results: Typically visible within a few weeks, with continued subtle improvement over months
Post-operative instructions will be provided to promote healing and minimize risks.
Risks and Complications
While ptosis surgery is generally safe, potential risks include:
- Asymmetry between the eyes
- Overcorrection or undercorrection
- Dry eyes or irritation
- Bleeding or infection (rare)
- Need for revision surgery
Choosing a qualified, experienced surgeon reduces the risk of complications and ensures optimal results.
Frequently Asked Questions
If ptosis is severe and impairing your vision significantly, it may be covered by insurance. Specialised testing by an opthalmologist is required to determine the severity of the ptosis and whether it is covered by insurance/medisave
Discomfort is usually minimal and managed with prescribed medications.
Incisions are typically hidden in the natural eyelid crease and fade over time.
Results are long-lasting, but in rare cases, muscle weakening may recur over time.
Most patients can resume contact lens use after healing, typically in 2–3 weeks.