Would ptosis surgery help me achieve more eye show when smiling? (photos)

Question

My eyelids are not drooping, but my upper eyelids have always covered my eyes a lot. I would like to reduce my upper eyelids so that more of my eyes show. Am I candidate for ptosis surgery? Would it work to accomplish my goal? The first photo is of my eyes while smiling today. I made a sample mock-up in the 2nd photo of directionally how I'd like my eyes to look while smiling. The 3rd photo is how my eyes look like in neutral position.

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

You have a bilateral central levator disinsertion ptosis. Undoubtedly you also have a compensatory eyebrow elevation. Repairing the ptosis will open the eyes and allow the eyebrows to look more normal. Likely this will also help you when you smile but to be quite honest, we do not guarantee what eyes will look like when you smile. No one does. That is because part of the effort you make when you smile is voluntary. I recommend being skeptical of anyone who suggests they could control that. Overall thought ptosis surgery will make the eyelid look more open and make you look brighter, more interested, and help you project an impression of being in control. The doctor's social medial writer who suggested that you have a blepharoplasty so also be taken with a grain of salt. A blepharoplasty will not fix the ptosis. A detailed in person assessment is needed to determine which ptosis surgery approach would be right for you. Your eyes can be your best feature.

James R. Gordon, MD, FACS, FAAO · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and posting your photos. Yes, you have ptosis which can be repaired. There are a few surgical options an experienced oculoplastic surgeon can perform to help you. Make an appointment for comprehensive evaluation and guidance. Good luck.

Randal Haworth, MD, FACS · Answer

Based on the information you provided and your photos, it's possible that you may be a candidate for ptosis surgery, which is a procedure to correct drooping or sagging of the upper eyelids. However, it's important to note that ptosis surgery is typically recommended for cases where the eyelids are actually drooping or sagging, and may not be the best option for your specific situation.

To achieve the look you desire, your plastic surgeon may recommend a different type of eyelid surgery, such as upper eyelid blepharoplasty. This procedure involves removing excess skin and fat from the upper eyelids to create a more youthful and alert appearance. Your surgeon will be able to evaluate your individual needs and goals, and recommend the most appropriate type of eyelid surgery for you.

It's important to have a thorough consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon and discuss your desired outcomes and any concerns you may have before making a decision about eyelid surgery. They will be able to examine your eyes and provide a personalized treatment plan that takes into account your individual anatomy and goals.

I hope this help,
best of luck !

Robert L. Kraft, MD, FACS · Answer

You may be a candidate for an upper lid blepharoplasty. However, unfortunately, the photos do not indicate the state of your forehead and the consequences for the upper lids. A consultation would be required to assess the entirety of the situation before proposing a potential solution.  Best wishes.

Would ptosis surgery help me achieve more eye show when smiling? (photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Upper lid surgery

Answer: Upper lid surgery

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Everything you need to know about Ptosis Surgery

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Would ptosis surgery help me achieve more eye show when smiling? (photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Upper lid surgery

Answer: Upper lid surgery

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Ptosis Surgery

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