Ptosis revision and contact lenses

Question

I wear soft contact lenses and have had two ptosis repairs on my left eyelid, about to be seen for a consult for a third revision. The two previous ptosis repairs were in 2016 (which failed) and then she tried it on a different muscle in 2017. It worked but my left lid has started falling again. Is this something that is just going to keep occurring because of contact use? Is it pointless to have it done if it will maybe just recur again? I don’t pry my eye open to remove the contacts.

Randal Haworth, MD, FACS · Answer

Ptosis, or drooping of the eyelid, can have various causes, including age-related changes, muscle weakness or dysfunction, nerve damage, or structural abnormalities. While contact lens use can potentially contribute to eyelid issues in some cases, it's important to consult with your ophthalmologist or oculoplastic surgeon for a comprehensive evaluation and personalized advice based on your specific condition.

In cases where ptosis repairs have been performed and the eyelid drooping recurs, it's important to investigate the underlying cause of the recurrence. It's possible that the previous repairs were not fully successful or that there are other factors contributing to the recurrence.

During your consult for the third revision, your surgeon will likely assess the condition of your eyelid muscles, examine your eyelid position, and consider factors such as the integrity of previous repairs, muscle function, and any other potential underlying issues. They may also inquire about your contact lens use, as prolonged or improper contact lens use could potentially affect eyelid function in some cases.

Based on their evaluation, your surgeon will be able to discuss the likelihood of recurrence and the potential success of a third revision surgery. They may recommend additional treatment options or alternative approaches to address your eyelid concerns effectively.

It's important to openly discuss your concerns, goals, and any lifestyle factors, such as contact lens use, with your surgeon during the consultation. They will provide you with the most accurate information and personalized recommendations based on their expertise and your unique situation.

I hope this helps,
best of luck !

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

Manipulation of the eyelids is thought to play a roll in the development of ptosis among contact lens wears. Plenty of people wear contact lens and never develop ptosis, so don't think that the contact lens wear explains everything. There are detailed of the prior surgery you have not explained such as the nature of the ptosis surgery you had ( Mueller's muscle conjunctival resection versus anterior levator resection ptosis surgery). I do many aesthetic eyelid reconstructions on patients who have failed one, two or seven prior eyelid surgeries. I am attaching a paper about post-upper blepharoplasty and ptosis reconstruction. It is clear that your prior eyelid surgeries have not controlled the upper eyelid platform. A surgery called anchor blepharoplasty is needed to accomplish this. You also have profound compensatory eyebrow elevation suggesting that internally, the upper eyelid tendons are not adequately correct. Ultimately there is no substitute for a detailed in person assessment. Your eyes can be your best feature.

Ptosis revision and contact lenses

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Ptosis revision and contact lenses

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Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.