True Ptosis
The upper eyelid margin itself sits too low because the structures responsible for lifting the eyelid are not functioning normally.
Aesthetic Eye & Surgical Arts
Ptosis Repair
When the upper eyelid itself sits too low.
Ptosis is different from excess eyelid skin. Accurate diagnosis helps determine whether the concern is caused by eyelid position, excess skin, brow position, or a combination.
Before
After
Ptosis RepairActual patient. Individual results vary.
Understanding Ptosis
Ptosis is not the same as excess eyelid skin
Ptosis occurs when the upper eyelid margin rests lower than it should. It may affect one eye or both eyes and can influence appearance, symmetry, and, in some patients, the superior field of vision.
Excess upper eyelid skin—often called dermatochalasis—can create a similar heavy appearance, but it is a different anatomical problem. Brow position may also contribute.
Because these conditions can occur separately or together, the diagnosis should come before the procedure.
Diagnosis Matters
Several different conditions can make an upper eyelid look heavy
Excess Eyelid Skin
Redundant upper eyelid skin can fold over the eyelid and create heaviness without the eyelid margin itself being abnormally low.
Brow Position
A lower brow position can contribute to upper eyelid fullness and may need to be considered separately from the eyelid.
Combined Changes
Many patients have more than one contributing factor, so treatment may need to address more than a single anatomical issue.
Evaluation
A careful eyelid examination guides treatment
Evaluation may include measurement of eyelid height and symmetry, assessment of eyelid muscle function, brow position, eye surface health, photographs, and other testing when appropriate.
The objective is to determine the true cause of the drooping appearance and whether treatment is cosmetic, functional, or a combination.
What We EvaluateEyelid height and symmetryLevator function and eyelid movementBrow position and excess eyelid skinEye protection and ocular surface health
Treatment
Ptosis surgery is tailored to the underlying anatomy
Ptosis repair is designed to improve the height and contour of the upper eyelid while preserving normal eyelid function and eye protection.
The specific surgical technique is selected according to the degree of ptosis, levator function, symmetry, eye health, and the patient's individual anatomy.
The goal is improvement that looks natural and functions well—not simply to raise the eyelid as high as possible.
Cosmetic & Functional Considerations
Appearance and visual function may overlap
Functional Ptosis Repair
When ptosis significantly interferes with vision and medical criteria are met, treatment may be considered functional. Documentation requirements and coverage vary by insurance plan.
Cosmetic Concerns
Some patients seek treatment primarily for eyelid asymmetry or appearance. Cosmetic procedures are generally self-pay and are not covered by insurance.
When cosmetic blepharoplasty and functional ptosis concerns coexist, the available treatment options and financial responsibilities can be reviewed during consultation.
Patient Results
Ptosis repair tailored to the individual patient
Selected examples of functional eyelid surgery. Individual results vary.
Before
After
Ptosis Repair
Specialized Training
Why eyelid anatomy matters in ptosis surgery
Oculofacial plastic surgery combines ophthalmology training with specialized fellowship training focused on the eyelids and surrounding structures.
That perspective is particularly relevant in ptosis surgery, where eyelid height, symmetry, movement, eye protection, and appearance all need to be considered together.
Why Specialized Training Matters →Two-Year ASOPRS Fellowship TrainedSpecialized eyelid surgical trainingFunctional and cosmetic evaluationAttention to eyelid position and eye protection
Preparation & Recovery
What to expect after ptosis repair
Swelling and bruising are expected during the early healing period and gradually improve. Eyelid height and symmetry may also continue to change as swelling resolves.
Detailed postoperative instructions are provided, and follow-up visits are used to monitor healing and eyelid function.
View Preparation & Recovery Guide →Our Approach
Thoughtful care begins with the right diagnosis
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about ptosis repair
What is ptosis?
Ptosis is an abnormally low position of the upper eyelid margin. It is different from excess upper eyelid skin, although both conditions may occur together.
How is ptosis different from dermatochalasis?
Dermatochalasis refers to excess eyelid skin. Ptosis refers to a low eyelid margin. Because they involve different structures, they require different treatment approaches.
Can ptosis affect vision?
Yes. In some patients, a sufficiently low upper eyelid can interfere with the superior field of vision or daily visual activities.
Is ptosis repair covered by insurance?
Coverage depends on the insurance plan and whether documented medical-necessity criteria are met. Requirements may include examination findings, photographs, visual field testing, and other documentation.
Can blepharoplasty and ptosis repair be performed together?
They may be performed during the same surgical session when both conditions are present, but cosmetic and insurance-covered portions are handled separately. The specific options are reviewed during consultation.
Will both eyelids be exactly the same after surgery?
The goal is improved eyelid position and symmetry, but natural eyelids are not perfectly identical. Pre-existing differences in anatomy and healing can influence the final result.
How long is recovery?
Bruising and swelling are expected early and improve gradually. Recovery varies by patient and by the procedures performed.
Can ptosis come back?
Eyelid position can change over time as tissues age or underlying conditions evolve. Your individual risk and expectations are discussed during evaluation.
Aesthetic Eye & Surgical Arts
Concerned About a Drooping Eyelid?
The first step is determining whether the concern is caused by true ptosis, excess eyelid skin, brow position, or a combination. Treatment can then be tailored to your anatomy, visual needs, and goals.
(941) 921-04005310 Clark Road, Suite 106, Sarasota, FL 34233
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