Ptosis Correction

Ptosis is the medical term for drooping upper eyelids. It is usually caused by excessive stretching of the levator aponeurosis, the tendon responsible for lifting the upper eyelids. Sometimes, the levator aponeurosis becomes separated from the tarsal plate that it is anchored to.

Eyelids normally sag over time with advanced age and other genetic factors. For patients with significant ptosis, however, the eyelids not only lead to a tired appearance, but may impair vision as well. Patients may complain of a “curtain” or “shadow” that is obstructing their upper visual fields. They may also complain about frequent headaches as a result of hyperactivity of their forehead muscles.

Ptosis usually affects the more elderly patients who have senile ptosis as a result of age. However, it is not uncommon for us to see ptosis in young patients although they tend to be unilateral rather than bilateral in nature.

For ptosis correction, Dr Leo employs the levator advancement method, a day procedure performed under local anesthesia. It is done by first creating an incision in the double eyelid crease. The levator aponeurosis is then identified, shortened and re-anchored firmly back to the tarsal plate.

During the procedure, the patient will be asked to open and close his or her eyes repeatedly. This ensures symmetry in the eyelids’ opening and closing mechanisms. The initial incisions are stitched closed. The entire surgery takes around 1.5-2 hours to complete. Sutures should be removed after a week following the surgery.

Post-procedure, antibiotics, painkillers and anti-swelling medicines are prescribed to optimize healing and prevent complications. Swelling is normal and should subside after 1-2 weeks. The final cosmetic outcome will be seen after 6-8 weeks.

As a medical procedure, ptosis correction may be Medisave-covered or insurance-claimable.

Ptosis correction is not just done for aesthetic reasons, but for functional reasons as well, to improve sight. For more information on Ptosis Correction in Singapore, contact our experienced plastic surgeon Dr Leo Kah Woon at +65 6733 3895 today.