When a low upper lid gets in the way of your vision, Dr. Conlon can help.
Ptosis means the upper eyelid sits lower than normal. It usually happens when the muscle that lifts the lid stretches or loosens with age.
It can also follow long-term contact lens wear or eye surgery, or be present from birth. A low lid can block your upper vision.
Simplified illustration, not to scale.
With ptosis, the muscle that lifts the lid is stretched or weak, so the lid itself sits low. It is treated with ptosis repair.
With extra eyelid skin (dermatochalasis), the lid sits in the right place, but loose skin hangs over it. It is treated with blepharoplasty.
Some people have both. Dr. Conlon will check which applies to you at your consultation.
The lid covers part of the pupil or blocks your upper or side vision.
You tilt your head back or raise your eyebrows to see.
Your eyes look tired, or your brow aches by the end of the day.
One lid sits lower than the other.
Ptosis repair tightens or reattaches the muscle that lifts the lid. It is usually a day procedure under local freezing, with a mild sedative often offered.
Dr. Conlon can correct ptosis through either an anterior approach, an incision in the natural crease of the upper lid, or a posterior approach, working from the inside of the lid so there is no visible skin incision. He will recommend the approach that suits your eyelid.
Dr. Conlon will explain the benefits and risks at your consultation.
Ptosis repair may be covered by Saskatchewan Health when medically necessary, for example when the droopy lid blocks your vision. Dr. Conlon will check at your consultation whether you qualify.
Performed by Dr. M. Ronan Conlon, fellowship-trained in oculoplastic/orbital surgery (approved ASOPRS fellowship, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics).
Meet Dr. Conlon →Coming from out of town? We see many patients who travel a long distance, and we can often arrange virtual follow-ups where appropriate, so you make fewer trips.
Consultations are free.
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