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Is There a Difference Between Having Ptosis and Having an Eyelid That is Just Set Lower?

asked 1 year ago by Concerned Individual in Alabama
Latest answer by Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD
Question viewed 217 times
Tags: male, ptosis

I recently had a consultation with an oculoplastic surgeon; after he had examined both of my eyes, he told me that the problem was due to the fact that my left eyelid was just naturally set lower. He then applied some kind of an eyedrop that caused my eyes to open really wide, he said that he could fix the problem by performing something called a "Muellerectomy." My question is, do I actually have ptosis or do I just have an eyelid that is naturally set lower? I have attached a recent picture...

4 answers to Is There a Difference Between Having Ptosis and Having an Eyelid That is Just Set Lower?

+2

Mild Ptosis can be a normal anatomic variation.

Oculoplastic [sometimes referred to as Oculofacial or Ophthalmic Plastic] Surgeons are highly specialized surgeons trained extensively in plastic surgery of the periocular region. This includes the  orbit [eye socket], eyelids, brows, midface, as well as the lower face/neck region [depending on the institution of training]. When it comes to the position of the eyelids, one of the most important measurement is the distance between the eyelid margin [where the lashes are... more
+2

It looks like mild ptosis

Oculoplastic surgeons are specialized in ptosis repair. A mullerectomy is probably a good way to correct your ptosis.
+1

You have 1 mm of left upper eyelid ptosis.

Dear Concerned Your surgeon sounds like they know what they are doing.  Should you have this fixed?  Sure if it bothers you.  This degree of ptosis is considered cosmetic and not likely covered by health insurance.  The problem is that the heavy eyelid suggests to people that you are stoned or disinterested.  Only you will be able to judge how important these issues are for you.  Fixing this is not an emergency, or a medical necessity.  Recovery from... more
+1

From the limited view the amount of ptosis is minimal

The picture shows minimal ptosis and not enough for surgical correction. You have lower set eyebrows and in patients with ptosis the brow position is much higher to compensate for the ptosis and it is not the case in your picture. You may try a personal consultation with aboard certified plastic surgeon to evaluate the whole face and not just the eyes.

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