Introduction
Ptosis, more commonly known as drooping eyelids, can affect adults and children but most often occurs due to aging. Dustin Heringer, MD, of Arizona Ocular & Facial Plastic Surgery, is a board-certified oculofacial plastic and cosmetic surgeon who expertly performs ptosis repair as an outpatient procedure for men and women. If drooping eyelids interfere with your vision or affect your self-esteem, call our office to schedule a consultation.
Ptosis, or drooping eyelids, is a condition that typically occurs as people age; however, in some cases, ptosis is present at birth. Ptosis may affect one or both eyes. An eyelid drooping too far over an eye can impair vision. Ptosis is usually caused by a weakened or stretched levator muscle that occurs as people age. In addition, cataract surgeries or eye injuries can sometimes lead to ptosis. In rare cases, eye tumors or neurological disorders can also cause eyelids to droop.
Ptosis repair surgery offers numerous advantages, particularly for those with eyelid drooping that interferes with both vision and appearance, including:
This surgery restores proper function to the eyelids and enhances appearance and overall quality of life, providing both physical and emotional benefits.
Ptosis repair surgery is ideal for individuals who experience drooping eyelids that affect their vision or appearance. Here are some key factors that determine whether you’re a good candidate for this procedure:
If drooping eyelids are affecting your daily life, a consultation with Dr. Heringer can help determine if you’re a good candidate for ptosis repair.
Your Ptosis Repair Surgery Journey with Dr. Dustin Heringer
The first step in ptosis surgery is scheduling a consultation with Dr. Heringer at Arizona Ocular & Facial Plastic Surgery. Dr. Heringer will carefully evaluate your concerns, medical history, and desired outcomes during this appointment. He’ll also examine the condition of your eyelids to determine the best approach for your needs.
He will also explain the anesthesia options, expected recovery process, and possible risks. This comprehensive consultation ensures you’re well-informed and confident about your personalized treatment plan.
Dr. Heringer performs ptosis surgery to correct drooping eyelids in a surgery center using monitored anesthesia. Ptosis surgery can be repaired internally or externally, and the decision as to which approach is best depends on the degree of ptosis and your overall exam at the time of the consultation.
The external approach makes an incision in your natural upper eyelid crease to access the levator muscle. In the internal approach, the lid is everted, and an incision is made to allow access to the Mueller’s muscle. In both cases, the muscles are then tightened with sutures, and the incisions are closed with temporary or permanent sutures.
Your Guide to Post-Ptosis Repair Surgery Care
After your ptosis surgery, you may experience blurry distance vision for up to two weeks and blurry near vision for up to a month. You won’t be able to wear contacts for the first two to three weeks after surgery. You will apply eye drops to lubricate your eyes as you recover.
If your vision changes slightly after ptosis surgery, Dr. Heringer recommends waiting three to four months before seeing your eye doctor for new glasses or contacts prescription so your eyes can fully heal.
If droopy eyelids are affecting your vision or self-confidence, rest assured that Dr. Heringer has specialized training to perform ptosis surgery for your specific needs.
Call the office to schedule a consultation today.
Some insurance plans may cover part of the cost if the surgery is medically necessary due to vision impairment. It’s best to schedule a consultation with Dr. Heringer for a more accurate estimate.
Dr. Dustin Heringer is a highly skilled, board-certified oculofacial plastic and cosmetic surgeon at Arizona Ocular & Facial Plastic Surgery, which has offices in Scottsdale and Peoria, AZ. Renowned for his attention to detail and natural results, he customizes each procedure to enhance his patients’ appearance and confidence.
A proud member of the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ASOPRS), the American Board of Facial and Cosmetic Surgery (ABFCS), and the American Board of Ophthalmology (ABO), Dr. Heringer is dedicated to staying at the forefront of his field.
Originally from North Dakota, Dr. Heringer graduated summa cum laude from Concordia College before earning his medical degree from the University of North Dakota. He further honed his expertise through two prestigious oculofacial plastic surgery and cosmetic surgery fellowships, performing over 1,300 procedures during his training. His specialties include oculofacial plastic surgery, skin rejuvenation, and injectable fillers, helping patients look and feel their best.
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If you are experiencing drooping of one or both eyelids, contact our office today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Heringer. Our practitioners offer the highest-quality care for ptosis repair, restoring your vision, enhancing your appearance, and improving your overall quality of life.
