Levator Advancement: the Best Way to Cure Ptosis Problems
LEVATOR ADVANCEMENT RESTON
Heavy eyelids can cause both functional and cosmetic issues, and symptoms include impaired vision, difficulty reading, and a tired or sleepy appearance.
The medical term for this condition is known as ptosis and it can be corrected to improve a patients ability to participate in daily activities and look more youthful and refreshed.
In fact, the type of surgical procedure used to repair ptosis is highly dependent on the operation of the levator muscle.
When its function is normal, an external levator advancement usually produces an excellent result.
WHAT IS PTOSIS?
Ptosis is a falling or drooping of the upper eyelid, and it can be minimal or to the point that it covers the pupil. It can occur in children or adults, and is often the result of aging.
Determining the cause and degree of ptosis impacts the type of surgical repair that is recommended.
WHAT CAUSES PTOSIS?
Ptosis, or droopy eyelids, are frequently the result of stretching of the tarsal plates which are thick and dense portions of connective tissue that provide shape and structure to the eyelid.
Additionally, a weak levator muscle, which is responsible for elevating the eyelids, is another factor that must be carefully assessed when treating ptosis.
The degree of function of the levator muscle is typically indicative of which surgery will yield the best functional and aesthetic outcomes.
HOW TO REPAIR PTOSIS WITH AN EXTERNAL LEVATOR ADVANCEMENT?
An external levator advancement is used to repair ptosis when the levator muscle function is normal, but its tendinous attachment (levator aponeurosis) is stretched and needs to be reinserted.
This surgical procedure is performed by making an incision through the crease of the eyelid, and therefore any scarring will be hidden.
Additionally, an external levator advancement allows for removal of excess skin, which improves the contours and appearance of the eyes.
During the treatment, patients may be directed to move their eye in a certain direction to help the surgeon determine how wide the eyelid should open.
WHAT ARE OTHER OPTIONS FOR CORRECTING PTOSIS?
An internal levator approach can target the levator muscle or aponeurosis, tarsus, or Müller muscle. In the case of a Muller muscle resection, eyelid position is adequate, and patients have minimal ptosis.
However, congenital ptosis with poor levator function is best repaired using the accessory elevators in the eyelids.
Lastly, when levator function is poor or absent, a frontalis muscle suspension if often necessary. This surgical procedure employs the individuals own connective tissue or elastic strands of silicon to connect the eyelids to the frontalis muscle.
When the patient lifts their brow with the frontalis muscle, they are also able to elevate the eyelids.
For additional information about surgical repair of ptosis with a levator advancement or other eyelid procedures, please call our office today to schedule a consultation.