Ptosis is the drooping of the upper eyelid. While ptosis is usually the result of aging, some people develop ptosis after eye surgery or an injury, and sometimes the condition is congenital. Because ptosis may be present due to serious causes, patients with this disorder should be checked by a medical professional to determine whether treatment is necessary, and if so, what kind.
Causes of Ptosis
Typically, ptosis results from a weakening in the muscle responsible for raising the eyelid or from damage to the nerves that control the muscle.
Diagnosis of Ptosis
Ptosis diagnosis is conducted by our specialized ptosis surgery and correction physician, Dr. Kian Eftekhari, at the Eyelid Center of Utah in Salt Lake City. Dr. Eftekhari meticulously determines the underlying cause. A thorough eye examination is performed, including tests for visual acuity, visual field, and a slit-lamp examination. In cases of suspected systemic issues, patients are referred to appropriate specialists for further investigation.
Treatment of Ptosis
Ptosis surgery is the second most common surgery Dr. Eftekhari performs after upper eyelid blepharoplasty (skin removal). There are three ways to treat ptosis, in order of frequency performed by Dr. Eftekhari:
- Scarless Ptosis surgery (Mullerectomy procedure): The tendon that lifts the eyelid is easily accessed from the back side of the upper eyelid, and in most cases Dr. Eftekhari is about to tighten this tissue to lift and awaken the upper eyelid without making any visible incision on the skin.
- Levator Advancement Ptosis Repair: In this procedure, Dr. Eftekhari makes an incision in the natural eyelid crease and repairs the tendon of the upper eyelid that has stretched or slipped off its footing. This is called the aponeurotic approach to upper eyelid ptosis surgery, and Dr. Eftekhari learned this procedure from one of the pioneers of this approach Dr. Richard Anderson.
- Frontalis Sling Ptosis Repair: Frontalis sling ptosis surgery is used mainly in children who are born with a severe congenitally droopy eyelid. In this procedure, Dr. Eftekhari connects the upper eyelid tendon – which is congenitally weak – to the forehead muscle to help open the eye.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ptosis
Ptosis refers to the drooping of one or both eyelids, often caused by muscle weakness, nerve damage, or underlying health conditions.
Ptosis can result from various factors, including aging, injury, congenital conditions, nerve disorders, and systemic diseases such as diabetes or myasthenia gravis.
Dr. Kian Eftekhari performs a comprehensive eye examination, including visual acuity testing and evaluation for underlying systemic diseases, to accurately diagnose ptosis.
Symptoms of ptosis may include drooping eyelids, increased tear production, difficulty blinking, and reduced vision, especially with severe drooping.
Yes, ptosis can be treated through various methods, including surgical intervention, to correct severe drooping and restore normal vision.
Ptosis surgery is generally safe when performed by a qualified and experienced oculoplastic surgeon like Dr. Kian Eftekhari. Risks and benefits will be discussed during the consultation.
Recovery after ptosis surgery typically involves minimal discomfort and downtime. Patients may experience temporary bruising or swelling, which resolves within a few weeks.
Dr. Eftekhari employs advanced techniques to minimize scarring, often placing incisions within the natural folds of the eyelids for optimal cosmetic results.
Yes, children with ptosis may benefit from surgical correction, especially if the drooping eyelids obstruct their vision. Dr. Eftekhari provides specialized care for pediatric ptosis patients.
To schedule a personalized consultation with Dr. Kian Eftekhari at Eyelid Center of Utah, please contact our office today.
Contact Us
For personalized evaluation and treatment of ptosis with Dr. Kian Eftekhari at the Eyelid Center of Utah, schedule a consultation today. Our team is dedicated to providing comprehensive care and tailored solutions to address your eyelid concerns. Contact us now to take the first step towards improved eyelid health and vision.