Ptosis Repair in Boulder, CO

Ptosis refers to when the upper eyelid droops over the pupil, reducing the field of vision and causing the eyes to look extra sleepy. Typically, this condition happens over an extended period of time, as the upper eyelid muscle tissue gradually stretches with age. Ptosis Repair surgery in Boulder, CO by Dr. Kyle Cox can address this condition.

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Understanding Ptosis Repair

Ptosis repair elevates the eyelid in order to improve the visual field while also delivering a more vibrant, youthful appearance. In some cases, ptosis can occur in children or adults due to weakness of the supporting muscle responsible for holding up the eyelid. This can be caused by nerve damage, inflammation, genetics, trauma, or other conditions. When the upper eyelids become droopy or ptotic, ptosis repair is often performed in combination with upper blepharoplasty. Once the upper eyelid is reset to an appropriate height, excess fat, and skin removal contributes to a more youthful, refreshed appearance.

What are the Benefits of Ptosis Repair?

Improved Vision: One of the primary advantages of ptosis repair is the enhancement of your visual field. By lifting the drooping eyelid, this surgery can alleviate obstructions caused by ptosis, leading to clearer and more comfortable vision.
Reduced Eye Strain: Ptosis can lead to increased effort in keeping the eyelid open, resulting in eye strain and fatigue. Ptosis repair can relieve this strain, making activities like reading or working on a computer more comfortable.

Potential Cosmetic Benefits: While primarily a functional procedure, ptosis repair can have cosmetic benefits by improving eye symmetry and reducing asymmetrical appearance, helping individuals look more refreshed and youthful.
Boosted Self-Confidence: Correcting ptosis can lead to increased self-esteem and confidence. Many individuals with ptosis feel self-conscious about their appearance, and ptosis repair can alleviate this concern.

How Do I Know if I Am a Candidate?

If you are experiencing decreased peripheral vision or if you are having to look through your eyelashes due to drooping of the upper eyelid or excess skin, or you would like your eyes to be more open and vibrant, you may be an excellent candidate for ptosis repair. Schedule a consultation right away for ptosis repair in Boulder. Dr. Cox will thoroughly assess your eyes and face to develop the perfect treatment plan for you.

What Can I Expect from the Procedure?

There are two muscles in the upper eyelid responsible for maintaining the height of the eyelid — the levator muscle and the muller muscle. Depending on the exact nature of the condition for each patient, one of the following surgical approaches will be implemented to adjust the length or position of these muscles.

Internal Surgical Approach

This procedure is performed with local and IV sedation. The incision is placed on the under surface of the upper eyelid, and then the eyelid muscles are shortened from the inside. Dr. Cox will determine exactly which muscles need to be shortened based on whether more or less of the eyelid needs to be elevated. This type of ptosis repair is best for mild cases of ptosis.

External Surgical Approach

In this approach, local and IV sedation is administered to help with relaxation while still allowing communication with the doctor to take place. Dr. Cox can determine the optimal placement of the eyelids by having you perform specific eye movements. Through an incision hidden in the crease of the eyelid, Dr. Cox will reposition the levator muscle and reattach it to the eyelid’s connective tissues (tarsus) in an elevated position that improves your vision while also restoring a youthful attractiveness to the face. This type of ptosis repair is best for mild to moderate ptosis and some cases of severe.

What Is the Recovery Process?

As the anesthesia or sedation wears off, you may experience some manageable discomfort. Bruising and swelling can be minimized by keeping your head elevated while sleeping and gently applying ice or cold compresses to the area. There may be added dryness due to the eye being exposed as it heals. Some suggestions to optimize your recovery after ptosis repair surgery in Boulder include:

Limit daily activities for the first week of healing.
Avoid smoking, strenuous exercise, sexual relations, swimming, heavy lifting, or wearing make-up or contact lenses for the first couple weeks.
Refrain from rubbing or irritating the eye.
Keep the eye well-lubricated, in order to prevent any worsening symptoms of dry eye.
Do not use any medications that may thin the blood until cleared by your physician.

Most patients will be fully recovered after about three months, and often report feeling refreshed and overjoyed with the results.

Does Ptosis Repair Surgery Leave Scaring?

Ptosis repair surgery typically involves well-concealed incisions, which are strategically placed in the natural creases or folds of the eyelid. This approach is designed to minimize scarring and make any scars as inconspicuous as possible. As a result, visible scarring is usually minimal and often not noticeable to others.

During a consultation, Dr. Kyle Cox and our team can discuss the specific approach we plan to take, the expected location of incisions, and the potential for scarring based on your unique case. We will also provide post-operative care instructions to help minimize scarring and promote optimal healing.

What is the Difference Between Ptosis Repair & Upper Blepharoplasty?

Both upper blepharoplasty and ptosis repair in Boulder involve the upper eyelids, however the key difference lies in their primary purposes.

Ptosis Repair

Purpose: Ptosis repair is a surgical procedure to correct drooping or sagging of the upper eyelid (ptosis) due to issues with the eyelid's muscle or tendon. Ptosis can obstruct the field of vision and create an asymmetrical or tired appearance.
Procedure: During ptosis repair, the surgeon addresses the underlying issue causing the drooping eyelid, which may involve tightening or repositioning the muscle or tendon responsible for lifting the eyelid.
Candidates: Ptosis repair is typically done for functional reasons to improve vision and eye comfort, although it can also have aesthetic benefits.

Upper Blepharoplasty

Purpose: Upper blepharoplasty is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to improve the appearance of the upper eyelids. It addresses issues such as excess skin, fat, and sagging in the upper eyelid area, which can create a heavy or tired appearance.
Procedure: During upper blepharoplasty, excess skin and fat are typically removed, and the remaining tissue is repositioned to create a more youthful and refreshed look.
Candidates: Individuals who undergo upper blepharoplasty usually do so for aesthetic reasons to enhance the appearance of their upper eyelids.