Ptosis repair is a specialized procedure that lifts drooping upper eyelids. It is designed to create a more balanced, open, and symmetrical appearance. It is common for one eyelid to sit lower than the other. This can be due to natural aging, poor lifestyle factors, or occur naturally. Asymmetrical eyes can impact your appearance and your self-confidence. Ptosis repair restores the eyelids and creates a more symmetrical appearance. Below, you will find more information about ptosis repair to improve eye symmetry.
Ptosis Repair for Improving Eye Symmetry
Ptosis repair is a common procedure to address eye asymmetry. Many people choose the surgery to improve facial harmony and their appearance. However, it is also beneficial in addressing functional issues. This includes eye strain and other vision issues. This can impact your daily life in several ways. It can make activities such as driving and reading much more difficult. Patients often report a boost in self-confidence after the procedure due to the results.
Ptosis occurs when the upper eyelid droops. Weakened upper eye muscles or stretched tendons cause this. Ptosis can be due to natural aging or poor lifestyle factors. While drooping eyelids can impact both eyes, they can also impact just one. When only one eyelid is affected by ptosis, it can lead to asymmetry. Ptosis repair focuses on lifting the drooping eyelid to match the height and shape of the other eye.
Common Causes of Eye Asymmetry
Eye asymmetry is a common issue. There are several causes of the issue. Once eye asymmetry occurs, surgical intervention is necessary to correct it. Topical products cannot cure the issue, as it is a structural problem.
Natural Aging
As you age, your skin structure changes. This is because the production of collagen and elastin reduces. Both proteins are critical to keeping your skin firm and youthful-looking. The production of collagen and elastin begins to slow as early as your late 20s. This continues to decline as you age. When this occurs, your skin and soft tissues can loosen. This can lead to sagging skin, fine lines, and wrinkles. This is one of the main causes of eyelid drooping and eye asymmetry.
Smoking and Drinking
Several unhealthy lifestyle habits can lead to eye asymmetry. Smoking is highly unhealthy because it accelerates collagen breakdown. This weakens the delicate tissue around the eyes. Over time, this can lead to eyelid sagging. In many cases, eyelid sagging is asymmetrical so that changes can lead to eye asymmetry. In addition to smoking, drinking can also impact your appearance. Regular alcohol use leads to fluid shifts and inflammation around the eyes. This can cause tissue stretching, leading to unevenness. Avoid smoking and excess alcohol consumption to reduce your risk.
Pressure on the Eyelids
Pressure or tension on the eyelids can stretch the muscles, skin, and tendons in the area. Sleeping on your side and pressing your face onto the pillow is a common issue. Over time, the pressure can cause the upper eyelid to droop on one side of the face. Another common cause is using contact lenses. The constant tugging on the upper eyelid can lead to stretching and sagging. Constant eye rubbing can also lead to changes in the eyes. Avoid applying too much pressure or tension on the eyelids to reduce your risk of sagging.
Chronic Eye Strain
People who spend a lot of time on screens can experience eye strain. This occurs when one eye works hard to compensate for differences in vision. The eyelid muscles can weaken unevenly, leading to ptosis in one eye. Reducing your screen time and taking breaks often can reduce your risk. You should also get regular eye exams, as poor vision can cause you to overcompensate.
Trauma or Injury
Injuries to the eyelid and surrounding tissues can weaken the upper eyelid muscles. It can also impact the surrounding tissues. When injury or trauma impacts the muscles and tissue that lift the lid, ptosis can occur. In many cases, injuries occur to just one eye. This leads to asymmetry, which can impact your appearance and your vision. Consult with an oculoplastic surgeon right away if you experience any injury to your eyes. They can assess the trauma and create a customized treatment plan based on your unique needs.
Ptosis Repair Surgery
Ptosis repair is a specialized procedure to correct upper eyelid issues. The surgeon adjusts the levator muscle to improve the function and appearance of the eyelids. The levator muscle controls eyelid movement. When stretched or injured, the eyelids are inevitably impacted.
There are several different types of ptosis repair. The type that is right for you depends on your aesthetic goals and unique anatomy. The external levator advancement technique is used on patients with moderate to severe ptosis. The internal ptosis repair technique is used on patients with mild ptosis. For patients with severely weakened eyelid muscles, a frontalis sling is used to provide additional support.
The surgery is performed on an outpatient basis, so you get to go home the same day. Ptosis repair is performed under local anesthesia with sedation. This ensures your comfort during the procedure. Sedation will be discussed at your consultation, so you are prepared on the day of surgery. The procedure takes between thirty minutes and one hour.
Recovering from Ptosis Repair Surgery
The recovery process for ptosis repair takes 1 to 2 weeks. Initially, you may notice bruising, swelling, and mild discomfort. These can be effectively managed with rest, cold compresses, and medication. It is also important to keep your head elevated while sleeping. Attend all of your follow-up appointments. Your surgeon can assess your recovery and ensure things are going as planned. You will notice your results immediately. However, it can take a few months to see your final results.
Leading Oculoplastic Surgeon
Eye asymmetry can affect the overall appearance of your face. If you want to improve the look of your eyes, contact the team at Taban MD Oculoplastic Surgery today to schedule your consultation!