Name: Ptosis (Droopy Lids)
Brand: Austin Face & Body
Rating: 4.7 (197 reviews)

Drooping Eyelids: Your Path to Relief

Drooping eyelids can affect both children and adults and can be bothersome for a variety of reasons. This condition can also create risks for some. Dr. Sean Paul can assess the eyes to determine if ptosis is present and if ptosis treatment in Austin with our team can help.

What is Ptosis?

Blepharoptosis, or ptosis, is a drooping of the upper eyelid that can either be in one or both eyes. This condition can affect both adults and children, all races, and men and women equally. It can be caused by an injury, birth defect, or neurological disorder. Blepharoptosis causes the upper eyelid to fall into a position that is lower than normal to the extent it partially covers the pupil. Ptosis may be present at birth or may be acquired later in life.

Blonde woman looking back over her shoulder smiling

How is eyelid ptosis treated?

Surgical repair helps improve vision and provides a more vibrant appearance overall. There are various surgical approaches to address ptosis, including an external approach, an internal approach, and even the use of suspension slings in very severe cases. Treatment for ptosis in Austin is very delicate and requires a thorough understanding of the anatomy and function of the muscle. A thorough discussion and consultation with Dr. Sean Paul will provide answers to any questions you may have related to the procedure.

Ptosis Repair Before & After Photos

Ptosis Repair Before and Afters at Austin Face & Body

Ptosis Repair Before & After Photos Gallery Images »

What does ptosis surgery do?

At Austin Face and Body, we specialize in cosmetic blepharoplasty, providing a wide array of cosmetic improvements in the eye region. Ptosis surgery is designed to tighten the muscles responsible for lifting the upper eyelid. As we get older, this muscle (known as the levator palpebrae superioris muscle) loses elasticity and weakens, causing the eyelid to droop and sag. Ptosis surgery is an effective treatment for patients who are experiencing vision obstructions due to a sagging eyelid.

Ptosis surgery achieves both cosmetic improvements (by repositioning the eyelid) and functional improvements (by improving vision).

Cosmetic Blepharoplasty and Ptosis Surgery by Austin Face and Body

Problems arising from ptosis

The problems that can result from ptosis are different for adults and children. In children, problems can include amblyopia (lazy eye), astigmatism (blurry vision), and crossed eyes if left untreated. In adults, the muscles that hold up our eyelids weaken and loosen as we age and can cause our eyelids to droop. This results in a tired, sleepy appearance and may also reduce peripheral vision. Some individuals experience brow or forehead aches and fatigue at the end of the day from constantly raising their brows to see.

Ptosis treatment and surgery

One of our skilled doctors will determine the cause of your ptosis, and will then be able to plan the best treatment. If treatment is necessary, it is usually surgical. Sometimes a small tuck in the lifting muscle and removal of excess eyelid skin (called blepharoplasty) can raise the lid sufficiently. More severe ptosis—when the levator muscle is extremely weak—requires re-attachment and strengthening of the levator muscle. The lid can be attached or suspended from under the eyebrow so that the forehead muscles can do the lifting.

Childhood ptosis treatment

In many cases of childhood ptosis, the problem is isolated and does not affect the child’s vision. In other cases, surgery may be needed. If lazy eye (amblyopia) is present, treatment with patching, eyeglasses, or eye drops may be necessary. In determining which procedure is the most appropriate, these important factors will be considered:

The child’s age
Whether one or both eyelids are affected
The eyelid height
The eyelid’s muscle strength when lifting and closing
Movements of the eye

Mild or moderate ptosis usually does not require surgery early in life. Children with ptosis in Austin, whether they have had surgery or not, should be examined regularly by an ophthalmologist for lazy eye, refractive disorders, and associated conditions. Even after surgery, problems with focusing can develop as the eyes grow and change shape. Any ptosis that develops over a period of days or weeks can signal a serious medical problem, and will require further neurologic and physical evaluation.

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Risks of ptosis surgery

The risks of ptosis surgery include infection, bleeding, and reduced vision, but these complications are not common. Immediately after surgery, patients may find it difficult to completely close their eye, but this is only temporary. Lubricating eye drops and ointment can be helpful during this period.

What to expect

Although improvement of the eyelid height is usually achieved, the eyelids may not appear perfectly symmetrical. In rare cases, full eyelid movement does not return, and in some cases, more than one operation may be required. Dr. Paul will be happy to discuss any of your questions and concerns about surgery outcome during your consultation.

Who is a good candidate for ptosis treatment?

Good candidates for ptosis treatment at Austin Face & Body are generally healthy non-smokers who do not have a history of significant eye problems or excessive scarring or keloid formation.

Who is a good candidate for ptosis treatment?

Good candidates for ptosis treatment in Austin are generally healthy non-smokers who do not have a history of significant eye problems or excessive scarring or keloid formation.

Providers who perform Ptosis (Droopy Lids) treatment at Austin Face & Body

Dr. Sean Paul

Dr. Sean Paul is the founder of Austin Face & Body. As a widely published surgeon who has traveled all over the world to speak, Dr. Paul is renowned and highly regarded in his industry. He specializes in cosmetic and reconstructive eyelid and facial plastic surgery in Austin, and is board certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology.

Dr. Sean Paul »

Ptosis Treatment in Austin

Drooping Eyelids: Your Path to Relief

What is Ptosis?

How is eyelid ptosis treated?

Ptosis Repair Before & After Photos

What does ptosis surgery do?

Problems arising from ptosis

Ptosis treatment and surgery

Childhood ptosis treatment

Schedule A Consultation

Risks of ptosis surgery

What to expect

Who is a good candidate for ptosis treatment?

Who is a good candidate for ptosis treatment?

Providers who perform Ptosis (Droopy Lids) treatment at Austin Face & Body

Dr. Sean Paul

Schedule a consultation with us

Schedule a Consultation