Droopy Eyelid Repair Surgery
Droopy eyelid (also called ptosis) is when the upper eyelid droops just a little, or so much that it covers the pupil and limit vision or make someone look sleepy. Droopy Eyelid Repair Surgery, also known as Ptosis Eyelid Correction, is an eye reshaping surgery used to lift droopy eyelids.
At its most severe, ptosis obstruct vision as the upper eyelid sags so much that it begins to cover the pupil. Ptosis Correction Surgery is done by tightening the levator muscles to elevate the eyelid. Once the muscles are strengthened, it enables the eye to open completely. Thus, allowing improvement in vision.
Ptosis Correction Surgery improves the appearance of lax upper eyelids and achieves symmetry between both eyelids, making the eyes look dramatically more awake.
Many people with severe ptosis find themselves tilting their heads back to speak. Ptosis can also cause tiredness and aching around the eyes, as the eyebrows are constantly lifted in order to see properly. With a corrective surgery, this can be avoided.
Why Should You Consider Ptosis Correction?
Functional Improvements
- An improved vision by eliminating the obstruction caused by the droopy eyelid
- No headaches caused by using the forehead muscles for opening the eyelids
- An improved vision with no need of using the brows for lifting the eyelid or tilting of the head backwards
Aesthetic Improvements
- A less sleepy and more well-rested appearance
- Formation of eyelid creases
- Larger, more attractive eyes
Double Eyelid Surgery and Ptosis Correction.
Pupil Exposure Determined By Eye Shape
Is Ptosis Surgery Medisave 0r Medical Insurance Claimable?
This treatment can be Medisave or Medical Insurance claimable depending on the individual condition. The condition of moderate to severe ptosis may make surgery eligible for Medisave or insurance coverage. You might get your insurance company to find out more info on the claim eligibility as well. Depending on your insurance plan and your condition, you can claim reimbursement for your Ptosis correction surgery from your insurer. For more information on claim eligibility and associated queries, confer with the doctor during consultation.
Book a Ptosis Correction Consultation
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes ptosis?
There are three main causes of ptosis — aging, congenital ptosis and ptosis brought about by injury to the eye through trauma or diseases. In some cases, nerve damage, neurological conditions or botched surgical procedures could also cause damage to the levator muscle. The most common cause of ptosis is aging (acquired ptosis) and with the levator muscles round the eye losing firmness, the muscles around the eye begin weakening. This causes the eyelids to lose elasticity and start drooping. Excessive rubbing, cataract surgery and the prolonged use of rigid contact lenses may also contribute to damage to the eye. When ptosis sets in, vision impairment is a possibility.
Congenital ptosis on the other hand is usually a result of improper development of the levator muscle from birth. As the levator muscle is instrumental in lifting the eyelids, when it is not fully formed, children with ptosis may often tilt their heads or eyebrows in order to see clearer as their eyelids droop and cover the pupils, thereby impairing their vision or causing amblyopia (commonly known as ‘lazy eye’). Surgery can help correct ptosis when the child is older or in adulthood.
What is the cost of ptosis surgery?
Ptosis Correction Surgery that is estimated to be around $12k+ can be a Medisave or Medical Insurance claimable depending on the individual condition. If the condition is moderate to severe then it will make surgery eligible for Medisave or insurance coverage. The cost is also dependent on a few important factors such as the severity of the surgery, if the procedure is required for one eye or both and if local or general anesthetic is required. Other factors that should be taken into consideration are the location of the clinic, how experienced the surgeon is and the surgeon’s booking charges as well as the cost of medication, if prescribed.
For more information on the procedure and the claim eligibility, confer with the doctor during consultation.
What kind of surgeon should I consult for ptosis correction?
Research is key. One of the most important factors to consider is if the surgeon is board-certified. These surgeons have received a seal of approval from the medical board and are usually regarded as the best in their field. It also means that they have honed their craft and are recognised for being knowledgeable and proficient experts in their industry. It is also advantageous if the surgeon being considered is someone who performs the treatment you are looking for regularly. Before and after photos as well as reviews should be looked at and considered to determine if a particular surgeon is best suited for you.
Another check that should be done is clinic accreditation. Singapore’s stringent standards for this industry means that a clinic has to be employing and properly maintaining appropriate and ultra-modern technology, has a in-depth assessment procedure in place and with staff that take pride in providing good customer service. For peace of mind, a comprehensive aftercare plan should also be in place after the procedure to ensure follow-through from the surgeon and his team as it shows that they are invested in your recuperation. In some cases, barring complications, the surgeon might decide to do a follow-up operation if something needs to be further corrected after the initial surgery.
This surgery, along with Asian eyelid surgery, or double eyelid surgery, are one of a handful of specialties practiced by Dr. Gavin Kang. Performing this procedure is a passion of his, and the results it can produce are life-changing, making it one of his most enjoyable procedures.
Our team of experts would be happy to schedule a consultation for you if you are considering for double eyelid surgery.
What can I expect post-surgery? What after-care recovery advice would I receive?
After surgery, patients might find that their vision is blurred. This is due to the thick ointment placed at the end of the procedure to ensure that the eye remains lubricated and moist. In most cases, a padded dressing may be placed on the eyelid to help keep the swelling down and this should be kept on for the first day. By closely following the instructions from the nurses, the patient will be able to remove the dressing independently on their own at home. Also, before leaving the clinic, a nurse will help by cleaning the eyelids. It may also help having someone to bring you home as driving is not advised for 24 hours after the procedure.
Usually, ointments or drops or a mix of both would be prescribed and it is vital that the accompanying instructions are closely followed. These drops and ointment should be placed in the eye to avoid irritation brought on by dry eyes which is common after surgery. Five days after the surgery, patients are able to wipe their eyelids gently as it will help with cleaning the sutures, thereby making it easier to remove them. At the one week mark, a follow-up consultation is required to check on healing and the positioning of the eyelid. Within the next 12 weeks, another assessment will be needed to assess the results of the surgery once the bruising and swelling has subsided. Depending on the type of sutures used, they may be removed at the clinic or have dissolved on their own.
What risks are involved with ptosis surgery?
As with all surgeries, risks are involved. In the case of ptosis surgery, some of the risks include:
- Blurry vision
- Over correction of the eyelid (removing too much of the skin in the eyelid)
- Asymmetric eyelid margins
- Scarring in the eye(s)
- Bleeding from the eye
- Eye infections
- Dry eyes
- Eye exposure from being unable to close the lids fully
- Unusual or unexplained swelling of the eye
Some issues stemming from appearances can be corrected by another surgical procedures.
How long does ptosis surgery last?
For some patients, ptosis surgery can last a lifetime whereas in others, a repeat surgery may be required in the future as it can be difficult to predict if and when ptosis might recur. A small minority may require other procedures to further correct or fine tune the existing corrections like improving symmetry or the position of the eyelid.
How long does it take to recover from ptosis surgery?
In Singapore, ptosis surgery is a common procedure and is done on an outpatient basis. Usually, local anaesthesia is administered so that the patient is awake but comfortable during the surgery. Some minor bruising and swelling is to be expected but it should subside within a few days without leaving any visible scarring.
Am I a candidate for ptosis correction?
If your eyelids droop such that they partially or fully obstruct your vision, ptosis surgery could be a requirement for you. Through a thorough consultation, the surgeon will measure the distance from the centre of the pupil to the upper eyelid to obtain the marginal reflex distance. If the reflex distance dips below a certain level, it would be best to seriously consider ptosis correction surgery.
Why should you consider Covette Clinic?
With accredited medical professionals, medical equipment, operating theatre and tastefully furnished single person rooms, not only does Covette Clinic offer surgery but it also provides post-op care that is instrumental for the healing process.
Seamlessly integrated within bustling Orchard and conveniently located near Orchard MRT, Covette Clinic not only boasts convenience and punctuality but a hassle-free experience too since appointments can be scheduled around clients’ existing commitments. With lower overheads than hospitals, the cost of outpatient surgery is significantly lower. This advantage is imparted to our clients for a reasonable saving without compromising on service quality and care.
Surgery Details
Operation Time
About 1.5 hrs
Anesthesia
Local anesthesia
Stitch Removal
3-5 days post-op
Recovery Duration
About 2 weeks
**Not a strict standard and patients’ experiences may differ.
Complete Eye
Rejuvenation
Eye-bags, dark circles, crow’s feet and droopy eyelids are some common concerns among patients. To combat these problems, we can combine non-surgical and surgical procedures to achieve total eye rejuvenation.
Enquire now to find out which treatment(s) is suitable for you!