Ptosis, a medical condition commonly referred to as 'droopy eyelid,' can significantly impair a person's vision and overall quality of life. The issues caused by this condition can range from mild to severe, sometimes even causing functional blindness. Fortunately, ptosis can be effectively treated with surgical intervention.
At Conestoga Eye, we offer expert surgical treatment for ptosis to help improve our patients' vision while helping them regain their confidence. Our skilled ophthalmologist team has extensive experience performing ptosis surgery, providing optimal results for our patients.
Understanding Ptosis
Ptosis can occur as a result of weakness or damage to the levator muscle that lifts the upper eyelids, or due to issues with the nerves that control these muscles. For example, neurological disorders that affect the nerves or eyelid muscles, like myasthenia gravis, may cause ptosis. It can affect one or both eyelids and may occur gradually over time or suddenly.
The condition can be caused by aging or an injury, or it may be present at birth and called congenital ptosis. In some cases, the cause remains unknown. No matter the underlying reason, ptosis can reduce or even completely block normal vision, significantly impacting an individual's ability to see clearly and comfortably.
Common symptoms of ptosis include:
- Drooping or sagging upper eyelid(s)
- Uneven appearance between the two eyes
- Difficulty keeping the eye(s) open
- Visual obstruction due to the drooping eyelid(s)
Additionally, people with ptosis often tilt their heads back to see under the lid or raise their eyebrows frequently to try to lift the drooping eyelids, which can lead to headaches and neck issues. Children with ptosis may also develop amblyopia, or 'lazy eye.'
These symptoms may worsen over time, leading to more severe vision impairment and hindering daily activities such as reading, driving, or even simple tasks like blinking. It can also make it difficult to maintain eye contact with others, which can affect social interactions. In cases of severe ptosis, the drooping eyelid can completely block vision.
Treating Ptosis With Blepharoplasty
In cases where the upper eyelid droops excessively and impedes vision, a procedure known as blepharoplasty can be effective. This surgery, often referred to as an eyelid lift, corrects the droopiness by removing excess skin and fat.
Not only does blepharoplasty help improve vision, but it can also improve the overall appearance of the eyes, helping them to look more youthful and refreshed.
This procedure is typically done as an outpatient surgery, and patients can resume their regular activities within a few days. Injections are used to numb the area, and lasers are used to make precise incisions and remove excess tissue. Our experienced team at Conestoga Eye takes every precaution to ensure a successful outcome for our patients.
After the procedure, patients may experience some swelling and bruising, but these typically subside within a few days. Our team will provide thorough post-operative instructions to ensure a smooth recovery process.
The Benefits of Ptosis Surgery
Ptosis surgery not only corrects the physical appearance of drooping eyelids but also brings a host of functional benefits, including vision improvement. By addressing the droopy eyelid that obscures the pupil, ptosis surgery can greatly enhance the field of view. Clear, unrestricted sight is often immediately noticeable following recovery, significantly improving the quality of life for the patient.
Blepharoplasty can also eliminate associated symptoms of ptosis, like eyestrain and headaches. Ptosis sufferers often develop these symptoms as a result of continually straining to see from underneath the droopy eyelid or constantly raising their eyebrows to lift the eyelids. Post-surgery, the need for these compensatory actions is eliminated, in turn relieving patients from constant strain and discomfort.
For children, ptosis surgery can also prevent potential long-term effects on vision development, allowing for optimal visual acuity during critical developmental stages.
Schedule With The Experts
At Conestoga Eye, we are steadfast in our commitment to patient care, and we specialize in providing expert eye care to both adults and children. Our team of skilled ophthalmologists has extensive experience in this field, and we pride ourselves on our ability to drastically improve the quality of life and confidence of our patients. Our detailed and personalized approach to each surgery ensures the best possible results, taking into consideration the unique needs of each patient, regardless of their age.
Don't let ptosis get in the way of your vision. Whether it's for you or a loved one, remember that professional help is just a call away. Schedule an appointment today with our expert team at Conestoga Eye, and let us help you see clearly again.
From routine visits to medical eye care, the team at Conestoga Eye is ready to assist you with all your vision needs. Schedule an appointment online with us today to start your journey toward better vision.
