Sagging Eyelid (Ptosis) - Causes, Treatment and Costs
What is Ptosis
Ptosis, or drooping eyelid, is a condition in which the upper eyelid hangs lower than normal. It can occur on one or both eyes and varies in severity. In mild cases, ptosis gives a tired appearance, while severe ptosis can impair vision.
The condition is caused by a weakening or stretching of the levator muscle, which is responsible for lifting the eyelid. It can result from aging, congenital defects, neurological disorders, infections, trauma, tumors or medication use.
The most common cause of ptosis later in life is stretching or loosening of the connection between the levator muscle and the upper eyelid. This can occur in either one eye (unilateral) or both eyes (bilateral). In children, ptosis is often congenital and requires early correction to prevent eye problems such as lazy eye or permanent vision loss.
Eyelid surgery (ptosis correction) is often the best solution to restore muscle function and return the eyelid to its natural position. The treatment is performed for both functional and aesthetic reasons and can significantly improve visual acuity and appearance.
Types of ptosis
Ptosis of the upper eyelids
Ptosis of the upper eyelid occurs when the muscle, which pulls the upper eyelid upward, does not function properly.
The lid gap becomes "smaller," so to speak, because the upper eyelid hangs lower than normal.
Ptosis of the lower eyelids
In ptosis of the lower eyelid, the lower eyelid will be too low and sometimes even detached from the eyeball (cfr. ectropion). Tears flow poorly and irritation of the eyes may occur.
Ptosis of the lower eyelids, like a lower eyelid correction, is accompanied by heavy eye bags and excess skin. Therefore, the treatment is similar.
Repositioning and re-tightening of the lower eyelid (canthopexy) will correct this defect.
Personalized advice from our eyelid surgeons
Our highly specialized surgeons do a thorough diagnosis and analysis of your eyes. They will discuss all options with you in complete objectivity.
Progression of a lower eye elevator step by step
Step 1: Preoperative screening
A thorough pre-operative screening is essential for a successful blepharoplasty. During this consultation, the surgeon assesses the patient's general health, the specific anatomy of the eyelids and any medical conditions that may affect the procedure or recovery. Aspects such as excess skin, muscle strength, fat deposits and the position of the eyebrows are carefully analyzed to create an optimal treatment plan.
In addition, your expectations are discussed, and the surgeon explains the procedure, including possible risks and aftercare. If necessary, additional tests, such as a vision test or ophthalmic checkup, may be performed to ensure that the procedure is safe. Proper preparation helps not only to improve results, but also to ensure a smooth and comfortable course of treatment.
Step 2: The operation
Prescriptions:
Treatment with blood thinner should be stopped 7 days before surgery.
On the day of surgery, it is best not to drive yourself. So come with an escort! Taking public transportation is also not recommended.
Anesthesia:
The procedure is usually done under local anesthesia with or without a small sedative pill.
The procedure
Ptosis of the upper eyelids
The procedure usually consists in shortening/attaching the insertion of the muscle back to the eyelid as perfectly as possible. Proper shortening and axis correction of the eyelid are important and require experience.
Other techniques such as suspension of the forehead muscles or correction of the small Müller muscle are also sometimes used but these are less frequent indications.
Ptosis of the lower eyelids
Ptosis of the lower eyelids, like lower eyelid surgery, is associated with heavy eye bags and excess skin. Therefore, the treatment is similar.
The repositioning and re-tensioning of the lower eyelid (canthopexy) will correct this defect.
Step 3 : After the operation
After the procedure, we recommend observing the following:
Do not lie with your head down (e.g., when lacing your shoes) or completely flat. Sleep supine with a double pillow.
Avoid crowds and try to stay calm. Blood pressure should remain low.
Reading and watching television are fine.
Aftercare:
Post-treatment consists of anti-inflammatories and analgesics combined with cooling (no ice or coldpack directly on the eye, best wrapped in a thick piece of cloth, or clean washcloth moistened with cold water).
For 1 week, eye drops (artificial tears) and an antibiotic ointment are applied to the scar.
After 1 week, the sutures are removed.
Price eyelid surgery
| Intervention | Price excluding VAT |
| Blepharoplasty of the upper eyelids | 1500€ |
| Blepharoplasty of the lower eyelids (Pinch) | 1490€ |
| Blepharoplasty of the lower eyelids (eyelid lifting + circle and shore treatment) | 2250€ |
| Ptosis | 1500€ |
| Chalasion | 150€ |
| Hordeolum | 150€ |
| Trichiasis | 950€ |
| The doctors at Focus Eye Clinic are unconventional | |
Our eyelid surgeons
Dr. Philippe Greant
Dr. Philippe Gréant is an experienced plastic and aesthetic surgeon with more than 30 years of practical experience. After 13 years of training at the University Hospitals of Brussels, he obtained his legal accreditation in plastic-aesthetic surgery. He also took additional training courses in France and the United Kingdom.
During his career, Dr. Gréant has developed a broad expertise in various techniques within plastic surgery, ranging from microsurgery and hand surgery to general plastic and aesthetic surgery. Today, he focuses primarily on aesthetic facial surgery, applying advanced techniques to achieve natural results.
Dr. Gréant is a member of the Belgian Society of Plastic Surgery and the American Society of Plastic Surgery. In addition, he is a medical expert and sponsor of the Plastic Surgery Foundation. He also participates in humanitarian missions.
Dr. Karel Goyvaerts
Dr. Karel Goyvaerts is an experienced and dedicated ophthalmologist trained at the University of Antwerp. With a strong scientific background and years of practical experience, he is committed to providing patients with the best possible eye care. His analytical precision and patient-centered approach ensure that each treatment is precisely tailored to the individual needs of his patients. At Focus Eye Clinic, Dr. Goyvaerts strives to make complex eye problems clear and accessible. His friendly and professional approach makes him a trusted physician for patients from diverse backgrounds. His bilingualism in Dutch and French allows him to put a wide range of patients at ease. Dr. Goyvaerts continues to continually study the latest developments in ophthalmology and is a valued member of our team.
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Thanks to our multidisciplinary team of experts, we offer all ophthalmic treatments under one roof. After a thorough diagnosis, the most appropriate doctor for your treatment is called in, so you always receive the best customized care.
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