I have ptosis in my left eyelid after an infection a year and a half ago. How can I get surgery if I can't afford it? (Photo)

Question

I have tried excercises. how can I get surgery if I can't afford it. I can't see very well. Its slowly getting worse. it is painful all the time to keep it open. It is very embarrassing I can't look at people in the eye. Please help me.

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

Looking at your photos, I suspect that the left upper eyelid ptosis is likely something that would qualify for coverage under many health insurance plan.  If you have no insurance, perhaps you can seek care at County Hospital if there is one in your community.  If you have health insurance, see an oculoplastic surgeon in your community and ask if they will perform your surgery and accept your health insurance.  Don't assume that this is cosmetic and not covered by insurance.  Good luck.

Mehryar (Ray) Taban, MD, FACS · Answer

Unfortunately, surgery is the only way to treat eyelid ptosis.  One way to reduce cost is to perform it under local anesthesia in the office.  Sometimes, it can be covered by insurance if it is bad enough.  Best to see an oculoplastic surgeon for evaluation.

Matheson A. Harris, MD · Answer

Infections in the eyelid, and subsequent swelling can sometimes stretch out the tendon that connect the muscle that holds up the eyelid to the end of the lid. This makes the eyelid droopy and probably will require a surgery to fix.  You should look for an oculoplastic surgeon in your area willing to give you a cash price. This can be done in the office. You might also qualify to have your insurance cover it if it is affecting your vision or causing eye or facial pain.  The doctor's office could help educate you about the financial options.

Henri P. Gaboriau, MD, FACS · Answer

Ptosis can happen after an eye infection. In majority of cases, Ptosis does create a functional problem (pain, partial loss of vision). Those cases (like yours) are usually covered by Medical Insurances. If you do have Medical insurance, I would call them to find out if the service is covered. Then you need a consultation with an expert like an OcculoPlastic Surgeon.

I have ptosis in my left eyelid after an infection a year and a half ago. How can I get surgery if I can't afford it? (Photo)

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