Ptosis refers to drooping of the upper eyelid from one of several causes, including age, trauma, or neurologic/neuromuscular conditions. Occasionally children are born with ptosis. Ptosis can be a cosmetic concern or can be severe enough to block vision and cause eye fatigue, brow ache and problems with peripheral vision at work and while driving. In some cases insurance will cover all or part of the procedure.
Oculoplastic surgeons like Drs. Garibaldi and Wong have fellowship training focusing on eyelid surgery and are best suited to address ptosis. Ptosis repair is performed under monitored sedation at a surgical center. The procedure generally takes an hour. The surgery is performed through an incision in the eyelids’ natural crease, with the goal of achieving a cosmetically pleasing result. Sutures remain in place for 1-2 weeks after the procedure and you should expect bruising and swelling that improves with time.
