What is the Difference Between Ptosis Repair and Blepharoplasty?

Ptosis repair and blepharoplasty are two distinct procedures that address specific concerns with the eyelids. Ptosis repair focuses on correcting drooping eyelids due to weakened or detached muscles in the eyelids. This procedure is done mainly from a functional perspective.

On the other hand, blepharoplasty typically involves the removal of excess skin, muscle, and sometimes fat from the upper or lower eyelids, serving primarily an aesthetic purpose.

This article clarifies the differences between these 2 procedures and discusses how a thorough consultation can determine an appropriate approach based on the patient. 

What is a Ptosis Repair?

Ptosis repair corrects drooping of the upper eyelid, a condition known as ptosis or blepharoptosis. This drooping can impact both vision and appearance, sometimes causing the eyelid to partially obstruct the eye.

Ptosis may occur due to age-related changes, congenital factors, or muscle and nerve issues affecting the eyelid’s lifting mechanism. During ptosis repair, a surgeon adjusts or repositions the levator muscle which is responsible for lifting the eyelid. 

Depending on the severity or underlying cause, various approaches are available to approach ptosis with the main goal being to improve eyelid function. 

What Is Blepharoplasty?

In contrast, blepharoplasty, often known as eyelid surgery or an eyelid lift, is a cosmetic procedure focused on removing excess skin, fat, or muscle from the eyelids. It is commonly performed on the upper or lower eyelids to address changes that might develop with age.

Ptosis Repair vs Blepharoplasty: What’s the Difference?

The key distinction between ptosis repair and blepharoplasty lies in their objectives. Ptosis repair concentrates on restoring proper eyelid function and addressing vision impairment caused by drooping eyelids. 

On the other hand, blepharoplasty is centred around cosmetic improvement, targeting aesthetic concerns like wrinkles and excess skin. It is crucial to accurately diagnose whether your primary concern is functional or aesthetic to determine the appropriate procedure.

Selecting the Right Procedure for You

Choosing between ptosis repair and blepharoplasty involves a detailed assessment of your needs and medical background. This decision is ideally made in collaboration with a qualified medical professional who understands the distinctions and complexities of the procedures.

Typically, an oculoplastic surgeon may be consulted for ptosis repair while a cosmetic surgeon commonly performs blepharoplasty for cosmetic reasons.

If you’re considering either procedure, seek a referral to a relevant specialist. This allows you to weigh your options and tailor your choice to your specific circumstances.

Disclaimer: At Artiste Plastic Surgery, our Plastic Surgeons led by Dr Jack Zoumaras have been trained to the highest possible degree. All surgery has risks and it is always advised to get a second opinion. Risks are very real and we cannot guarantee any result. Results are illustrated as a guide only. All risks are managed and any need for revision surgery or complications (1-5%) can be managed by our specialist plastic surgeons.

Any statements on how you will feel is based on Level V Evidence:

Level V:  How you will feel after plastic surgery varies between individuals, depending on psychological and physical factors. Our internal research is based on how patients in our practice feel after surgery.

The blogs are not a substitute for a medical consultation and do not form as part of the doctor to patient relationship.