Ptosis Surgery — Repair of a Drooping Upper Eyelid

Age-related ptosis is the most common form. Patients describe heavy eyes, raising the eyebrows to see, headache from frowning, and a narrowing of the upper field of vision. The surgery is performed under local anaesthesia with sedation through the eyelid crease; the muscle is tightened and the height is set during the operation with the patient's cooperation. Blepharoplasty is often combined in the same session.

Congenital ptosis is present from birth. Beyond appearance, a low eyelid can obstruct the visual axis and lead to amblyopia — a lazy eye — or force the child into a chin-up head posture. Timing matters: some cases need early surgery to protect vision, others are observed and operated on later. The decision follows a full examination of vision and eye alignment. Surgery is performed under general anaesthesia; ELEMENTAL has paediatric anaesthesia on site.

Ptosis that has recurred, that is asymmetric after previous surgery, or that is associated with nerve palsy or eye-movement disorders requires an individual surgical plan and sometimes a combined approach with strabismus surgery. These cases are a specific part of Dr. Barinova's practice.

Adults — local anaesthesia with sedation, 45–90 minutes per eyelid; children — general anaesthesia. Discharge the same day. Swelling for one to two weeks; the eyelid height settles over four to six weeks. Sutures are removed at about one week. Individual recovery varies.

Under- or over-correction, asymmetry, incomplete eyelid closure with dry eye, infection, bleeding, and the need for adjustment. In children, the risks of general anaesthesia are discussed separately with the anaesthetist.

Consultation: AED 1,100. The cost of surgery is confirmed in writing after examination; it depends on whether one or both eyelids are treated, on the technique, and on anaesthesia. Ptosis that narrows the field of vision is a medical condition; whether a policy covers it depends on the insurer.