What is ptosis correction?
Blepharoptosis, usually shortened to ptosis, means the upper lid margin rests lower than it should — commonly within 2 mm of the pupil centre or below. It is a muscle problem rather than a skin problem, which is why removing skin alone will not fix it.
In adults the usual cause is a levator tendon that has thinned or slipped with age, years of contact-lens wear, or rubbing. Some people are born with a weaker muscle. Ptosis correction tightens or re-attaches that tendon. If you also have folds of excess skin, see droopy eyelid surgery; if you mainly want a larger, brighter eye shape, compare eye widening surgery.
Do I have ptosis? Signs to look for
- Lids covering the top of the iris so the eyes look sleepy or bored.
- Raising your eyebrows to see and a lined forehead by evening.
- One eye visibly smaller than the other in photos.
- A deep, hollow upper-lid crease often with a high or uneven fold.
- Long-term contact-lens wear or previous eyelid surgery.
Sudden drooping, drooping that varies through the day, or double vision needs a medical check first — it can signal a nerve or muscle condition rather than cosmetic ptosis.
Which ptosis technique is right for me?
| Levator advancement | Müller muscle approach | Non-incisional ptosis | |
| Incision | In the eyelid crease | Inside the lid | Tiny punctures |
| Best for | Mild to moderate ptosis | Mild ptosis, good muscle | Very mild cases, thin lids |
| Crease created? | Yes | Separately if wanted | Yes |
| Swelling | 2–3 weeks | 1–2 weeks | 1–2 weeks |
| Durability | Long-lasting | Long-lasting | Can relax over time |
Severe congenital ptosis with very poor muscle function may need a frontalis sling instead; Dr. Lee will tell you honestly if that applies.
How is ptosis surgery done?
Before & after
Before
After
See more eye cases in the before & after gallery.
How long is ptosis surgery recovery?
| Day 1–3 | Swelling and a tight feeling on closing; lubricating drops at night. |
|---|---|
| Day 5–7 | Stitches removed and early symmetry check. |
| Week 2–3 | Bruising gone; make-up and screen work are comfortable. |
| Month 1–3 | Lid height and crease settle; final symmetry is judged at three months. |
“I ask patients to open their eyes on the table because the muscle tells me more than any marking pen can.”
Dr. Lee Yoo-jung · Chief DirectorWhat can go wrong with ptosis surgery?
The most common issue is a small height difference between the two eyes, as each muscle heals in its own way; a minor adjustment is sometimes needed. Over-correction can cause dryness or incomplete closing for a time, and under-correction leaves residual droop. Infection and noticeable scarring are uncommon. Patients with prior surgery should read about revision blepharoplasty.
Frequently asked questions
Is ptosis correction cosmetic or medical?
It can be both. It improves appearance, and in more pronounced cases it also widens the upper field of vision.
Can ptosis be fixed together with a double eyelid?
Yes. The crease incision used for the repair also creates the fold, so the two are commonly done together.
Will my eyes be perfectly symmetrical?
We aim for close symmetry, but small differences can remain because both sides heal independently.
Does it hurt?
The area is numbed, so you feel pressure rather than pain. Afterwards most people need only simple painkillers.
Can I wear contact lenses afterwards?
Usually after about two weeks, once Dr. Lee confirms the lids are closing comfortably.
How long do the results last?
A properly repaired levator holds for many years, although normal ageing continues.