Introduction: Ptosis of the upper eyelids
Ptosis occurs when the muscle that lifts the eyelid becomes attenuated. It creates mild to severe drooping of the upper eyelids. It can affect both upper eyelids, one side only or one side more than the other. An upper eyelid ptosis surgery can make a dramatic improvement in appearance and create better balance. Occasionally, ptosis may create a functional obstruction of vision. Dr. Jason Sabet-Peyman, a board-certified ophthalmologist and Duke-trained oculoplastic surgeon, emphasizes:
It is critical to understand the desire and preexisting eye condition of the patient in making a recommendation as to blepharoplasty vs. ptosis procedure. They are 2 different procedures that can result in significantly different outcomes. In some patients, they need to combined for the best result.
The Problem: Eyelid drooping and its impact
Functional Consequences
- Peripheral Vision Obstruction: Hooding blocks the upper visual field (reading/driving safety risks)
- Eyestrain: Compensatory forehead muscle overuse causing headaches
- Asymmetry: Uneven lid heights despite bilateral weakness
Emotional Toll
- Perpetually “sleepy” or sad expression
- Social self-consciousness
Did you know?
68% of bilateral ptosis patients report daily functional limitations (NIH, 2023).
Dr. Peyman’s Solution: Precision Muscle Advancement
Ptosis Repair vs. Blepharoplasty
| Aspect | Ptosis Repair | Blepharoplasty |
| Target | Levator muscle advancement | Excess skin/fat removal |
| Incision | Hidden in eyelid crease | Hidden in eyelid crease |
| Primary Goal | Restore lid height/vision | Remove hooding for aesthetics |
| Anesthesia | Local | Local |
The Combined Approach
About 75% of patients needing ptosis repair also need some form of blepharoplasty.
Skin reduction with muscle advancement. Elevating the eyelid platform via levator muscle advancement may result in more skin redundancy above the eyelid; therefore, skin reduction is usually performed at the same time.
Explore how ptosis differs from cosmetic lifts: Ptosis Repair vs. Cosmetic Blepharoplasty
Recovery: What to Expect
Timeline for Bilateral Ptosis Repair
- Day 1-3: Mild swelling; cold compresses 10 mins/hour
- Day 7: Suture removal (asymmetry normal initially)
- Week 3: Resume desk work; gradually get back into the normal routine
Key Insight: In most cases, it is best to do both upper eyelids at the same time even if 1 side is significantly heavier than the other to achieve the best balance.
Detailed healing guide: Ptosis Surgery Recovery Timeline
Why Choose Dr. Sabet-Peyman?
- Dual-Specialty Expertise: Oculoplastic surgeons are intimately familiar with the delicate eye/eyelid anatomy and focus entirely around the eyes.
- Precision Tools: Uses adjustable sutures for micro-millimeter lid height control
- Orange County Focus: 10+ years serving Fullerton with excellent results
FAQs: Bilateral Ptosis Essentials
1. “Is bilateral ptosis riskier than unilateral?”
No, in most cases it is actually better to achieve a more balanced outcome.
2. “Can I combine this with lower eyelid surgery?”
Upper and lower eyelid surgery is frequently combined. Many patients prefer to do it all together to recover simultaneously.
3. “Will insurance cover bilateral repair?”
It depends on the severity of the case. Dr. Peyman will let you know if you qualify.
Take the Next Step
Suspect bilateral ptosis? Call us for an eyelid assessment.
📞 (714) 449-1940
As a leading oculoplastic surgeon based in Fullerton, Dr. Jason Sabet-Peyman offers highly specialized cosmetic and reconstructive eyelid procedures. His expertise draws patients not only from Fullerton but also from across Orange County, including residents of Newport Beach, Irvine, Yorba Linda, Anaheim Hills, and beyond, who value his meticulous approach and natural results.