Drooping Eyelid (Ptosis) Surgery

Drooping Eyelid Repair

Blepharoplasty

This is a procedure which removes excess skin which is
drooping or causing the eyelid to be weighed down.  Extra fat which is protruding can also be
removed.

Ptosis repair

This procedure re-attaches the muscle which lifts the eyelid
to the cartilage in the eyelid itself.

Risks of Surgery

Although this surgery is quite safe, there are some risks
which should be considered.  The risks of
surgery include vision loss, loss of eye, bleeding, infection, double vision,
dry eye, change of prescription glasses/ contacts, recurrence of drooping, need
for further surgery.

Benefits of surgery

The benefits of this surgery include improved vision,
improved peripheral vision, and improved cosmetic look to eyes/ face.

Pre-operatively

Prior to surgery, discuss with your doctor any blood
thinners you may be taking including aspirin, Coumadin, Plavix, ibuprofen,
naproxen, or any other medications which would cause bleeding during
surgery.  Most medications will need to
be stopped prior to surgery due to the high vascularity of the eyelids.   Do not stop any medications without
discussing it first with your doctor!
Most medications need to be stopped two weeks to 10 days prior to
surgery to take effect.

Day of Surgery

Dress comfortably.  Do
not eat or drink past midnight prior to surgery.  You will be given an injection of anesthetic
around your eyes, so it won’t be painful during surgery.  During surgery the doctor may ask you to look
up or down, so you will not be totally asleep, but you may not remember
everything.  In the post-operative area,
the eyes may be patched closed for a few hours.
Ice packs will be placed to reduce swelling.

After eyelid surgery

No heavy lifting or straining for the first 24 hours is
recommended.  Ice your eyelids 20 minutes
on and 20 minutes off as much as possible. Sleep on 2 pillows if possible.  This will reduce swelling.  Swelling, sometimes dramatic, and also
bruising is normal!  It may take 2-4
weeks for the swelling and bruising to resolve.
You may use your eyes as much as you want without worry.  You will be given an ointment to apply to the
eyelids as well.

What to watch for after eyelid surgery

Sudden pain, drop in vision, bleeding, eyelids hard as a
rock, and pus are all signs you should call your doctor as soon as
possible.  Irritation, soft swelling,
blood tinged tears, bruising is all normal.
If you are unsure, call your doctor.