The Difference Between Upper Blepharoplasty and Ptosis Repair

There is a lot of confusion between upper blepharoplasty, also known as eyelid lift, and ptosis repair. Because both procedures deal with the delicate tissue of the upper eyelids, it is important to know the differences between the two and select the one that best fits your needs. Top Scottsdale facial plastic and oculoplastic surgeon Dr. Ali Ghafouri discusses the differences between the two procedures in this blog post.

About Upper Blepharoplasty

Over time, the body begins to produce less collagen and elastin, two proteins that are essential for keeping the skin tight and firm. Without these two proteins, the skin on the upper eyelids begins to loosen and droop, creating a tired and aged appearance. Upper blepharoplasty is a cosmetic procedure that corrects loose sagging skin and excess tissue on the lids. During the procedure, an incision on the natural crease of the upper eyelid is created. Excess skin and tissue are carefully removed, while the remaining skin and tissue are tightened and lifted to create a softer and more youthful appearance.

If you are concerned by the appearance of drooping eyelid skin and wish to restore a refreshed and energetic eye appearance, you may be a good candidate for upper blepharoplasty. Dr. Ghafouri specializes in eyelid surgery for his Phoenix area patients.

About Ptosis Repair

Eyelid ptosis is a medical condition that occurs when the levator muscles weaken and fail to lift the upper eyelids properly. There are many causes of eyelid ptosis including congenital, hereditary and certain muscular-neurological disorders. The most common cause of upper eyelid ptosis is age-related due to the stretching and separation of the elevator muscle. In severe cases, ptosis can cause the eyelid to sag so low that it interferes with vision. Some patients with severe eyelid ptosis report having to raise their eyelids or eyebrows, or turn their head to see properly. In addition to impaired vision, ptosis can also cause eyestrain and headaches.

Unlike upper blepharoplasty, which is considered to be a cosmetic procedure, ptosis repair is mostly functional. Ptosis repair involves tightening or shortening the eyelid muscle so that it can once again lift and open the upper eyelid adequately. The details of the procedure depend on the cause and severity of the ptosis.

Another difference between cosmetic upper blepharoplasty and ptosis repair is that only the latter can be covered by medical insurance. This is because ptosis repair is considered to be medically necessary to improve vision, while cosmetic upper blepharoplasty is considered to be an elective procedure.

Contact Us for an Appointment

Some patients may benefit from combining cosmetic upper blepharoplasty and ptosis repair in order to simultaneously rejuvenate their appearance and restore normal vision. Only a board certified  oculoplastic surgeon like Dr. Ghafouri can help you determine which treatment plan is right for you. To schedule your appointment, please contact Arizona Oculoplastic Specialists by calling (480) 905-1010 or emailing our office today.