What is the difference between blepharoplasty and ptosis repair

But what are the differences between blepharoplasty and ptosis surgery? Allow us to explain:. The upper and lower lids are subject to aging and require different approaches to revive them, so that they look their best. In upper lid blepharoplasty, loose skin along the upper eyelid is removed to reduce the hooded appearance that can make even the most energetic individual seem disengaged. In lower lid blepharoplasty, excess fat is removed or relocated to fill any hollowness around the eyes and give the eyes a brighter appearance.

In both cases, the eyelids will remain at the same height, but the excess fat and skin is removed to alleviate the tired, haggard appearance. Unlike blepharoplasty, ptosis involves changing the height of the eyelid, so that it rests higher up on the surface of the eye. This is useful for patients whose upper eyelids may actually cover the pupil, making it difficult to see.

The need for blepharoplasty, ptosis or both is one that should be made in conversation with Dr. Samuel Hahn. Each patient is unique and, as a result, will require a different approach to receive the desired results. Our oculoplastic surgeon can differentiate between true ptosis and excess overhanging skin dermatochalasis and determine the cause and type of ptosis. The most common form of ptosis is referred to as involutional ptosis and is caused by loosening or slippage of the levator muscle in the eyelid.

This is often done with an upper eyelid blepharoplasty removal of excess eyelid skin. Frequently your insurance company will cover this procedure depending on its severity or if the vision is affected by the ptosis. Other causes of ptosis include trauma, tumors, inflammatory disorders, neurologic disorders, and generalized muscle disorders. Some of these may be potentially lethal, and patients should seek urgent evaluation in cases of ptosis that are unilateral only affecting one side , that developed quickly, or associated with other symptoms.

There are three main surgeries for the correction of ptosis. Depending on the severity and type of ptosis and the amount of extra skin on the upper eyelid, surgery can be performed through an incision in the upper eyelid crease or internally from an incision behind the eyelid, which typically leaves no scar. Over time, the body begins to produce less collagen and elastin, two proteins that are essential for keeping the skin tight and firm.

Without these two proteins, the skin on the upper eyelids begins to loosen and droop, creating a tired and aged appearance. Upper blepharoplasty is a cosmetic procedure that corrects loose sagging skin and excess tissue on the lids. During the procedure, an incision on the natural crease of the upper eyelid is created.

Excess skin and tissue are carefully removed, while the remaining skin and tissue are tightened and lifted to create a softer and more youthful appearance. If you are concerned by the appearance of drooping eyelid skin and wish to restore a refreshed and energetic eye appearance, you may be a good candidate for upper blepharoplasty.

Ghafouri specializes in eyelid surgery for his Phoenix area patients. Eyelid ptosis is a medical condition that occurs when the levator muscles weaken and fail to lift the upper eyelids properly. There are many causes of eyelid ptosis including congenital, hereditary and certain muscular-neurological disorders. The most common cause of upper eyelid ptosis is age-related due to the stretching and separation of the elevator muscle.

In severe cases, ptosis can cause the eyelid to sag so low that it interferes with vision. Some patients with severe eyelid ptosis report having to raise their eyelids or eyebrows, or turn their head to see properly. In addition to impaired vision, ptosis can also cause eyestrain and headaches. Unlike upper blepharoplasty, which is considered to be a cosmetic procedure, ptosis repair is mostly functional.