Eyelid Ptosis Repair
EYELID PTOSIS REPAIR
Eyelid ptosis or “lazy eye” is a condition where the upper eyelid droops. Ptosis can be the result of numerous medical conditions. Surgery is not always the answer for some forms of ptosis; therefore, a detailed eye examination by Dr. Velargo and by an optometrist is critical in working up the cause of your ptosis prior to embarking on a surgical endeavor.
WHAT HAPPENS DURING EYELID PTOSIS SURGERY?
Eyelid ptosis surgery is an outpatient procedure that is usually performed under a local anesthetic with intravenous or oral sedation so that you are not fully asleep but completely relaxed with the eyelid numbed. In some cases, however, the surgery is performed under general anesthesia. Either way, you will be drowsy after your procedure and will need someone to take you home.
Most commonly, Dr. Velargo repairs a mix of senile (age-related) ptosis and congenital ptosis. The surgery is accomplished through an incision in the upper eyelid crease in the same manner it is done for a cosmetic blepharoplasty. In fact, these two procedures are commonly performed simultaneously. Usually, internal sutures are used to tighten and re-approximate the levator muscle tendon. Next, any loose skin is excised. Lastly, a tiny suture is then used to close the upper eyelid incision.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT DURING RECOVERY FROM EYELID PTOSIS SURGERY?
You will feel some tightness when the anesthetic wears off. You may experience some eye dryness and excessive tearing, as well as bruising and swelling. These symptoms will gradually subside in the weeks following your surgery. Frequent application of cool compresses for the first 72 hours helps to speed the healing process along as well as application of topical Arnica Montana for visible bruising.
Incisions are cared for 4-6 times per day by cleansing the incision lines with hydrogen peroxide followed by application of an eye lubricant to the incisions themselves.
All sutures are removed between 5-7 days following your surgery, and the resulting scar will be well camouflaged in the upper eyelid crease.
Most patients take 7-10 days off from work after eyelid ptosis repair and are able to wear contact lenses again after about 10 days. You should be able to exercise within 3 weeks.
With some make-up and/ or thick-rimmed glasses, you should be able to go out in public with minimal attention drawn to yourself in just 2-3 days.
Depending on the skin type, lumps and bumps may be present along the incision lines in the initial phases of healing. These usually go away with time, but we can often speed the healing process along with local injections of steroids. Occasionally milia (plugged up oil glands) will be present and these can be easily treated in the clinic as well.
As a rule, 80% of swelling is generally gone in 2 weeks and 90% of swelling is generally gone by 2 months, so do not try to evaluate the results of surgery too soon.
Eyelid Ptosis Surgery can correct:
- “Lazy eye”
- Asymmetric upper eyelids
- Drooping upper eyelid
Most eyelid ptosis surgery is covered by medical insurance. We will work with you to obtain coverage if possible.
Contact the New Orleans Center for Aesthetics and Plastic Surgery today to find out more about expert Eyelid Ptosis Surgery.
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I cannot begin to express how pleased I am with the results of the procedures from Drs. Velargo and Hendrick!! They are very caring and professional in the care of their patients and the office staff rocks!! They listened to the concerns that brought me to their office for correction, then suggested options with sincerity. I felt very comfortable with both of them and will most definitely be a patient of theirs for life!!My experience here was truly wonderful. Dr. Gary took her time and really talked to me about what my expectations were and how we could achieve it. She’s very kind and makes you feel like you can talk to her about all your concerns, no matter how minor. And the results were incredible and natural, which was a huge priority for me. The rest of the staff were fantastic as well, and they really make you feel welcome. The facility is beautiful and relaxing with a spa feel. I will definitely be back to see Dr. Gary and the rest of the lovely folks here!
I was really nervous about getting a breast augmentation because I really wanted it to look natural and proportionate to my body. On my first visit/consultation Dr. Hendricks and his staff made me feel really comfortable! He truly listened to me and made me feel at ease throughout every step of the process. Very kind and personable doctor! I would 100% recommend them to anyone thinking about a procedure, especially if you’re looking for a natural look and a doctor who won’t pressure you otherwise! Bonus, the office is very beautiful (feels like a spa) with an incredible view of the city. Definitely check them out!