Aesthetic Ptosis Repair

If you've been considering enhancing the appearance of your eyes, aesthetic ptosis repair surgery might be a procedure worth exploring. This surgical intervention corrects drooping eyelids, rejuvenating the eyes to make them appear brighter and more youthful.

Enhancing Eye Appearance at New York Eye & Face

Dr. Anaïs Carniciu, M.D., specializes in aesthetic eyelid surgery at New York Eye & Face. With a keen eye for detail and a gentle touch, Dr. Carniciu understands that the eyes are a central feature of your face and can influence how you present yourself to the world. Her approach is known for its focus on achieving natural-looking results that align with each patient's individual aesthetic goals.

What is Ptosis?

Ptosis (pronounced “toe-sis”) is a condition in which the upper eyelid droops or sags. This drooping can vary from slight to severe enough to cover the pupil, potentially impairing vision. The condition can affect one (unilateral ptosis) or both eyes (bilateral ptosis), and it may be present at birth (congenital ptosis) or develop later in life (acquired ptosis).

Symptoms of ptosis include the following:

Drooping upper eyelids
Difficulty keeping the eyes open
Eye strain
Fatigue, especially when trying to keep the eyes open
A need to tilt the head back to see more clearly

Common causes of ptosis include the following:

The muscle responsible for lifting your eyelid, the levator muscle, can weaken with age
Damage to the nerves that control your eye muscles can lead to ptosis
Trauma to the eye area may result in eyelid drooping
Certain medical issues, such as diabetes, stroke, or tumors, can impact the eyelid muscles
Some individuals are born with a condition that causes ptosis
Wearing and removing contact lenses over an extended period may stretch and weaken the eyelid muscles

Aesthetic ptosis repair is a surgical procedure to correct the drooping of the upper eyelid. If you have ptosis, this surgery can enhance the appearance of your eyes by tightening the weak eyelid muscles. The surgery may be performed through an external incision hidden in the eyelid crease or internally using a scarless approach.

What are the Aesthetic Benefits of Ptosis Repair Surgery?

Here are some benefits you may experience following the procedure:

Restored eyelid position for a more youthful and alert appearance to the eyes
Improved symmetry between both eyes, creating a balanced and harmonious facial appearance
Reduced tired or sad appearance
Enhanced eye contours for a more defined and attractive shape
Rejuvenating effects can make the eyes appear more refreshed and vibrant
Improved confidence
Better makeup application
Improved confidence

Am I a Good Candidate for Cosmetic Ptosis Repair?

The best candidates are patients with significant drooping upper eyelids. They should also have good overall eye health and be free from conditions that could complicate surgery or compromise healing. Here’s what else you need to know:

Candidates for eyelid ptosis repair should be in good general health and free from significant medical conditions that could increase surgical risks or impact recovery.
Eyelid anatomy is evaluated, including the position of the eyelid margin, eyelid crease, and levator muscle function
Younger patients with good skin elasticity often achieve favorable outcomes with eyelid surgery, while older patients may require additional considerations

Consultation with Dr. Anaïs Carniciu, M.D.

During your initial consultation, Dr. Anaïs Carniciu, M.D., an expert in cosmetic ptosis repair, will evaluate your eyelids and discuss your aesthetic goals. You'll be asked about your medical history, including any previous eye conditions and surgeries. Dr. Carniciu will also inquire about any medications you are taking. After the consultation, you will have a clear understanding of the next steps, potential surgery dates, and the required pre-operative preparations.

How is Ptosis Surgery Performed?

Ptosis repair surgery involves repositioning the eyelid and lifting muscles to create a more alert and youthful appearance. Often, this can be achieved using a scarless approach with a hidden incision on the backside of the eyelid. Less commonly, an external eyelid incision is used and disguised within the natural eyelid crease. Patients who are undergoing upper eyelid blepharoplasty (excess skin removal) may have ptosis repair performed simultaneously.

You will be given local anesthesia, IV sedation, or general anesthesia before Dr. Carniciu makes precise, hidden incisions on the upper eyelids. The levator muscle is identified through this incision and tightened internally to complete the ptosis repair. Additionally, patients may undergo removal of excess skin and fat (blepharoplasty) to enhance lid symmetry. Finally, very fine sutures close the incisions, minimizing scarring. Depending on the complexity, the surgery usually takes 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Recovery and Results

Expect some swelling and bruising initially, which will gradually subside. You can use cold compresses to reduce swelling and should keep your head elevated, even when sleeping. You should also avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting and do not wear contact lenses for at least two weeks post-surgery. Your final results aim to correct the drooping eyelid and provide a more youthful, refreshed appearance. Keep in mind that individual healing varies, and patience is vital.

Timeframe	Expected Outcome
Immediate	Improved lid position; not full results due to swelling
1-2 Months	The majority of swelling subsided; a more accurate representation of the final results
3-6 Months	Final results apparent: healed incisions and optimal lid position

Why Choose New York Eye & Face for Ptosis Repair?

When considering ptosis repair surgery, New York Eye & Face stands out for its dedicated specialty in oculofacial plastic surgery.

At our helm is Dr. Anaïs Carniciu, M.D., a board-certified ophthalmologist and oculofacial plastic surgeon with an exceptional grasp on the delicate nuances of eyelid surgery. She combines state-of-the-art surgical techniques with a thorough understanding of the complex eyelid anatomy, which means you receive tailored care that respects the uniqueness of your eyes. Her approach is comprehensive; it integrates meticulous evaluation and precise surgical execution to achieve balance and symmetry that align with your facial features. To take the first step towards regaining confidence in your appearance, contact us today to book a consultation with Dr. Carniciu.