‘The eye indicates the antiquity of the soul’ – while the adage goes way back, there are often many truths in it. After all, the eyes are one of the first few things individuals would notice when meeting another for the first time. When you gaze in the mirror, do you spot your upper eyelids drooping? On top of that, have you noticed increased tearing, blurred vision, or perhaps an exhausted appearance? If the answer is yes, then the chances are that you might have ptosis.
Ptosis, also known as blepharoptosis, is a medical condition characterized by unusually droopy upper eyelids. It can either develop later in life or be present from birth; the former being acquired and the latter being congenital. The severity of ptosis can be categorized as follows:
- Minimal: 1 to 2 mm
- Moderate: 3 to 4 mm
- Severe: >4 mm
Ptosis can be caused by a variety of factors, such as trauma or neurological disorders that affect the muscles or nerves of the eyes. Though it typically occurs alone, it can be linked to various other illnesses. For instance, immunological, degenerative, or genetic disorders, infections, or tumors. In severe cases, patients may need to elevate their eyebrows, tilt their head back into a chin-up stance, or lift their eyelids with a finger. Amblyopia, which leads to permanently weak eyesight, may occur if congenital ptosis is not addressed.
While droopy eyelids are most commonly associated with aging, it is worth noting that it could just as well affect the young as it can the old. Aside from aging, potential risk factors are excessive eye rubbing, consistent use of contact lenses, eye surgery, and the like. The following are 4 signs of ptosis that calls for a ptosis repair:
- Difficulty blinking or closing the eye
The ability to blink or close the eyes may be impaired if ptosis is caused by a neurological disorder that affects the muscles or nerves of the eye, such as myasthenia gravis. This occurs when there is a failure in the nerves and muscles that control the closing and opening of the eyes together.
- Drying or tearing of eyes
The eyelids ensure the eyeball stays clean and moist while also shielding it from dirt and debris. When the eyelids are unable to shut entirely or on a regular basis, the eyes might get dry and irritated.
When the eyes become dry, the brain sends a signal to the lacrimal gland, responsible for producing tears. This causes excessive tear production and eye-watering.
- Forehead and eye fatigue
As the surrounding muscles would have to do extra work to compensate for the droopy upper eyelid, affected individuals frequently suffer from fatigue around their forehead and eyes. To try to elevate the eyelid, the brows may stay raised. This ultimately exhausts the forehead muscles. Additionally, if the muscles in the eyelids are working tirelessly to raise a drooping eyelid, they might get fatigued.
- Tilting the head back to see
In severe cases, individuals with ptosis will often tilt their heads back to see well. This is due to the eyelids sagging to the extent that it is beginning to cover the pupil. The compensation might lead to headaches and neck pain over time. Thus, if your vision is affected by ptosis, we recommend seeing our surgeon to explore possible treatment options.
How The Clifford Surgery Clinic can help
While the signs of ptosis can first sound rather alarming, fret not, as help is at hand. With over 40 years of expertise in dermatology, aesthetics, and plastic and reconstructive surgery, The Clifford Surgery Clinic aspires to provide quality work in the hands of safe and skilled surgeons. Helmed by our highly trained and professional surgeons with plenty of years of experience, The Clifford Surgery Clinic is all you need for a trusted ptosis repair in Singapore.
Blepharoplasty
At The Clifford Surgery Clinic, an eyelid surgical procedure called ‘blepharoplasty’ is used to readily treat patients with ptosis. This procedure aims to repair the levator aponeurosis or strengthen the levator muscle, both of which can assist with raising the eyelid.
The operation starts while the patient is under local or general anesthesia. Then, our highly experienced surgeon will make an incision on the upper eyelid. This incision removes excess skin, muscle, fat, and other tissue. Certain muscles might be reattached here if necessary. Once completed, the incision will be sutured shut.
As the ptosis correction procedure is similar to incisional double eyelid surgery, patients may decide to combine the 2 procedures for a more enhanced appearance. Patients can be discharged soon as the anesthesia wears off since the procedure typically takes less than an hour.
The importance of a competent surgeon
While the procedure is typically a low-risk outpatient process, complications may arise. In rare circumstances, the surgery may result in an undercorrection of the condition. Additionally, overcorrecting may also occur. This causes the eyelid to be either too high or too low, necessitating further surgery.
Hence, a trusted and competent surgeon is highly advised when looking to correct ptosis. Our meticulous surgeons at The Clifford Surgery Clinic are equipped with the right tools and expertise to execute precise adjustments. Along with a keen eye for detail, the chances of complications are little to none.
Enhance your vision and confidence with The Clifford Surgery Clinic
Whether mild or severe, ptosis can pose an annoyance to one’s day-to-day life. This is especially so when the vision is affected. And although it may seem daunting, ptosis repair is a common procedure that our certified surgeons are well versed in.
At The Clifford Surgery Clinic, our reputable surgeon can treat not only the ptosis issue but also the cosmetic aspect of ptosis repair – as you improve your impaired vision, you can simultaneously boost your confidence. Feel free to get in touch with us so that our surgeons can examine your ptosis and prescribe a suitable treatment plan accordingly!