Droopy Eyelids (Ptosis) – Causes, Surgery & Patient Results

What is Ptosis?

Ptosis is the medical term for a drooping upper eyelid. It may affect one or both eyes and can interfere with your field of vision, causing eyestrain, brow ache, or cosmetic concerns. In some cases, ptosis can affect daily activities like reading or driving.

What Causes Ptosis?

• Congenital ptosis – present from birth, usually due to a weak eyelid muscle.
• Acquired ptosis – more common with age or:
• Long-term contact lens wear
• Previous eye surgery
• Eyelid trauma
• Natural ageing of the eyelid tendon
• Rare causes include medical conditions such as myasthenia gravis, nerve palsies, or muscle disorders.

What is Ptosis Surgery?

Ptosis correction surgery lifts the upper eyelid to improve vision and eye appearance. It’s typically done under local anaesthetic with or without light sedation. The procedure involves tightening or reattaching the muscle or tendon that lifts the eyelid.

Benefits:

• Improves vision and visual field
• Reduces eyestrain and brow ache
• Enhances eyelid symmetry and facial appearance

👁️ BOPSS Results – How Effective is Ptosis Surgery?

According to the British Oculoplastic Surgery Society (BOPSS):

• Over 80% of patients are satisfied with the position of the eyelid after surgery.
• More than 90% report improved appearance or visual comfort.
• A small percentage (~10–15%) may require minor adjustments or revision surgery for fine-tuning results.
• Patient satisfaction is high, especially when expectations are discussed clearly before surgery.

This data supports that ptosis surgery is generally safe, effective, and well-tolerated.

Risks of Ptosis Surgery

Like all surgeries, ptosis correction has potential risks:

• Asymmetry – slight difference between eyelid heights, often acceptable to most patients.
• Under- or over-correction – may require revision.
• Bruising and swelling – usually settles within 2–3 weeks.
• Dryness or irritation – may require lubricating eye drops.
• Rare risks: Infection, bleeding, or temporary difficulty in closing the eye.

Preparing for Surgery

• You’ll have a pre-op assessment with your surgeon and nurse.
• Discuss any medications, especially blood thinners (aspirin, warfarin, rivaroxaban).
• Fasting may be needed if sedation is used.
• Wear comfortable clothing and bring someone to accompany you.

What Happens During Surgery?

• Local anaesthetic is injected under the eyelid.
• You may feel brief stinging, followed by numbness.
• The procedure takes about 45 minutes per eye.
• Dissolvable or removable stitches are used, and antibiotic ointment is applied.

Aftercare at Home

• Use prescribed antibiotic and lubricating drops as directed.
• Avoid strenuous activities, alcohol, driving, or swimming for at least 2 weeks.
• Expect blurred vision and mild discomfort for a few days.
• Seek urgent care if vision worsens, redness increases, or discharge appears.

Follow-Up Appointment

• A clinic review is usually arranged 1–2 weeks post-surgery.
• Stitches may be removed if non-dissolving ones were used.
• Final healing and eyelid position can take a few weeks to settle.

✅ Summary – Is Ptosis Surgery Right for You?

Ptosis surgery is a safe and effective treatment for droopy eyelids that impact your vision or confidence. With a high satisfaction rate reported by BOPSS and long-term improvement in visual comfort, it remains one of the most commonly performed and successful oculoplastic procedures in the UK.

👁️ Speak with your ophthalmic surgeon to assess if you’re a good candidate and to discuss your expectations and risks in detail.