Loss of peripheral vision can often be the result of loose or sagging skin over the eye, called ptosis. Ptosis, commonly referred to as droopy eyelids, is a condition of excess skin and fat in the eye area that can occur in one or both eyelids. Often, it can lead to cosmetic concerns and affect your looks, causing a tired, aged, or angry appearance.

In some cases, this drooping can potentially even impair your vision. Severe drooping may obstruct the visual path of the eye, leading to all manner of difficulties. At Cole Aesthetic Center, we are committed to helping you fight the effects of ptosis with the latest in medical techniques and technologies.

Blepharoplasty Surgery Can Help:

  • Create a more youthful appearance around the eyes
  • Improve lines and wrinkles in the upper and lower eye areas
  • remove loose skin around the eyelids that sags over the eyes and causes ‘hooding’
  • Improve issues with your vision, including peripheral vision
  • Reverse the appearance of fatigue or aging caused by drooping eyelids

What Causes Droopy Eyelids?

Many things can cause ptosis. Perhaps the most prominent culprits are age or genetics. As we age, our skin loses its elasticity and begins to droop in more areas than just our eyes. The skin becomes lax and starts to give in to the constant pull of gravity.  However, some people may be more prone to droopy eyelids than others. Genetics plays a major role in determining what age it might start affecting you, and to what degree.

Droopy eyelids can also be caused by an injury. Trauma to the muscles holding the eyelid can weaken them. If severe enough, this can cause the eyelid to droop. Still, the most common types are congenital and acquired ptosis.

Congenital Ptosis

Congenital ptosis is a rare condition characterized by lower positioning of the upper eyelid, often found at an early age in children. It is a condition that can occur unilaterally or bilaterally and may persist if left untreated. Unilateral means it affects a single eye, and bilateral means it can affect both of them.

Acquired Ptosis

Acquired ptosis is the result of when the upper eyelid structures are inadequate to maintain normal lid elevation. It often looks as though someone always has their eyes half-open. In these cases, the eyelid muscle might have grown too weak to hold up the eyelid itself. Or changes in the eyelid structure have made it impossible to hold up the lid.

Blepharoplasty for Ptosis

A Blepharoplasty procedure, or eyelid lift, is the corrective surgical procedure for ptosis. This procedure removes excess skin and fat deposits around the eyes, revealing a more refreshed appearance which can help improve vision.

Droopy Eyelid Procedure

This procedure focuses on a small but complex area. A successful procedure requires a surgeon with experience in this central area of the face. Dr. Cole is board certified, specializing in cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery with concentration on facial areas. Blepharoplasty is typically performed under local anesthesia. The target area is small and can be effectively numbed for a comfortable experience. However, many patients would feel much better under light sedation to decrease any anxiety before and during the procedure. The choice depends on the patient. During your consultation, you can decide with Dr. Cole which approach is best for you.

The Surgery

The surgery focuses on muscles and fat under the skin around the eyelids. Only minor incisions are required, and they are hidden within the natural folds of the skin. Dr. Cole takes great care to ensure visual scarring will not distract from the patient’s youthful results. This procedure is an outpatient procedure that usually lasts around an hour. Total time can vary depending on the extent of your surgery plan.

Ptosis Seattle

If ptosis is affecting your quality of life, take the first step in reclaiming your eyelids. Schedule a consultation today to discuss treatment options directly with Dr. Cole. Ptosis can not only hamper your vision but can detract from self-confidence. Dr. Cole, plastic surgeon, and his team of professionals will work with you to address any and all concerns you might have.

We will put together a treatment plan that is designed with your personal goals and expectations in mind. Don’t let ptosis, literally, drag you down anymore. Take the first step toward rejuvenating your appearance today.