Evaluation of Ptosis
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Overview
Our eyelid tendons can loosen over time and impact vision and/or appearance. This is usually a gradual process and is often referred to as “lazy eye” or droopy eyelids. Ptosis evaluation begins with you, and involves your medical history, a physical exam, and eyelid measurements to determine the potential cause of eyelid droopiness.
During consultation, Idaho Eyelid and Facial Plastic Surgery evaluates whether a patient has a unilateral or bilateral ptosis, whether the condition is congenital or acquired, along with the degree of severity. We have seen 1,000s of patients, ranging from barely noticeable ptosis to advanced conditions requiring correction. Severe bilateral ptosis requires surgery to avoid loss of vision, especially while reading, headaches, and eyebrow strain. If dramatic enough and left untreated, the drooping eyelid caused by ptosis can cause other conditions, such as amblyopia or astigmatism.
When ptosis is unilateral, we must consider the asymmetry in relation to Hering’s law of equal innervation. Hering’s Law sets forth the principle that eyes move together and eye muscles receive equal innervation which enables them to focus on a target at the same time. This principle contrasts with that proposed by Von Helmholtz (1911), who suggested symmetrical reflexes are a learned, coordinated response and that eye movement is individually controlled. Consequently, if we surgical repair one eyelid, the other eyelid may become droopy and sometimes there is a need to correct for that.
At Idaho Eyelid and Facial Plastic Surgery, we use our years of expertise to determine the best way to address both your functional concerns and aesthetic desires. We will explain the different approaches used in surgery, either an internal or external surgical approach to tighten the tendons. We will also explain your options as many patients undergoing ptosis repair also opt for lower lid blepharoplasty, as it can dramatically improve a patient’s appearance.
It should be noted that there are instances where patients might need both a blepharoplasty and ptosis repair when they have excess skin AND weakened tendons. Our surgeons evaluate each patient during the consultation process and can help you decide the best options for you. Our top surgeons have performed over 15,000 eyelid surgeries and their experience can help you navigate your options.
Featured Testimonials
“I visited Idaho Eyelid and Facial Plastic Surgery to address my droopy lids. They were obstructing my peripheral vision so it was a fairly severe case. From the minute I walked in the door through the surgical procedure and follow up, I felt confident that I came to the right place. The staff explained the surgical process and reassured me. Dr. Boerner is a skilled surgeon and did an excellent job. Aside from looking better, I can also see again. And i don’t look like a deer caught in the headlights. Altogether a great experience!”
by Julie F.
