Plastic surgeon vs. oculoplastic surgeon for ptosis repair? (photo)

Question

I have droopy eyelids that I want to get lifted. My understanding is that it's called ptosis and the surgery is called ptosis repair. A couple of years ago, I got a chin implant and I'd like to go back to that doctor if possible as he was very good. That doctor does blepharoplasty, so would it be safe to assume he would also do ptosis repair? Or is it necessary to go to an oculoplastic surgeon?

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

While there are of course exceptions, oculoplastic surgeons do the vast majority of ptosis surgery performed. Consequently when you go to a general plastic surgeon, you are taking a risk that your surgeon performs enough ptosis surgery to be able to address your concerns. Performing blepharoplasty is not at all the same as having the training, skill, and experience to be considered and expert in ptosis surgery. The American Society for Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery maintains a surgeon directory on their website that can assist you find a highly qualified surgeon in your area who performs ptosis surgery.

Cap Lesesne, MD · Answer

It depends on your circimstance. There are many plastic surgeons who perform a lot of ptosis repairs, me included, and like working around the orbit. Many ,again like me, got interested when doing complex reconstructions from cancer and trauma. So interview a couple and go with the one that makes you comfortable.If you had a good experience before, you should speak with him.

Mark L. Mazow, MD, FACS · Answer

Ptosis repair is surgery on the upper eyelid muscles to raise the level of the eyelid. Upper id blepharoplasty is reworking of the skin and fat. They are not the sam operation, but are often done at the same time. All Oculoplastic surgeons are skilled in both procedures. Not all Plastic surgeon or facial Plastic surgeons who do upper lid blepharoplasty perform ptosis repair or do it frequently enough to be skilled at the nuances of this operation.. To  be successful ptosis repair needs to be done under either straight local anesthesia or with sedation so that intraperative adjustments can be performed. I would suggest you see an ASOPRS affiliated Oculoplastic surgeon. Best of luck

Ralph M. Rosato, MD · Answer

Plastic surgery as a specialty was established in 1937 as the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Many plastic surgeons spend 6 to 8 years in residency and fellowship to train to be a plastic surgeon. It is disingenuous to say to a patient that they are taking a risk if the are being treated by a board certified Plastic Surgeon.  It is true that not every Surgeon does every procedure. Surgeons know their limitations and only treat patients they a confident they can help.  Good luck, I would give strong consideration to talking with your Plastic Surgeon.

Plastic surgeon vs. oculoplastic surgeon for ptosis repair? (photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Eyelid surgery

Answer: Eyelid surgery

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Everything you need to know about Ptosis Surgery

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Plastic surgeon vs. oculoplastic surgeon for ptosis repair? (photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Eyelid surgery

Answer: Eyelid 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.