5. Ptosis Correction Surgery (Eye Shape Correction)

Hello.

I am Dr. Young-moon Yoo, a board-certified plastic surgeon.

It is time to learn about methods for correcting #ptosis.

This is commonly referred to as #EyeShapeCorrection surgery.

It is called eye shape correction because it transforms dim, sleepy, and tired-looking eyes into a clear, defined, and bright impression.

Depending on the approach and the muscle targeted during surgery, it is largely classified into #NonIncisionalPtosisCorrection and #IncisionalPtosisCorrection.

To understand this, accurate anatomical knowledge is essential.

In the upper eyelid, there are two muscles responsible for opening the eye.

1. Levator aponeurosis

2. Muller muscle

While both muscles share the common goal of opening the upper eyelid, there are slight differences.

The levator aponeurosis plays the major role, accounting for about 80% of the eye-opening function.

The Muller muscle plays a minor role, accounting for about 20%.

Furthermore, while the levator aponeurosis plays the primary role in the initial process of opening the eye, the Muller muscle functions in the final stage of opening and maintaining that open state.

Do you see the difference?

1. Non-Incisional Ptosis Correction

Non-incisional ptosis correction involves flipping the upper eyelid and performing the surgery through the conjunctiva, so it primarily corrects the ‘Muller muscle’.

Consequently, the degree of correction is naturally limited (1-2mm).

As shown in the diagram above, it is a procedure where the Muller muscle is folded like a blind through the conjunctiva.

Just like this.

When this is done, the eyes will open much wider along the folded muscle when you open them, right?

Q. Advantages of non-incisional ptosis correction?

Since there is no incision, there are no scars, recovery is fast, and swelling is minimal.

Because it is a relatively simple procedure, the burden of revision surgery is low. (Though it is always best not to need revision surgery at all!)

Q. Disadvantages?

Because the degree of correction is small, it is difficult to apply to cases of severe ptosis.

There is a slightly higher possibility of it loosening or undoing if the eyes are rubbed severely. Immediately after surgery, there may be a sensation of a foreign body due to the folded conjunctiva.

Q. Who are good candidates for non-incisional ptosis correction?

Based on the explanation above, in which cases would it be beneficial?

It would be suitable for those with thin eyelid skin, little fat, minimal skin sagging, and mild ptosis.

2. Incisional Ptosis Correction

Since incisional ptosis correction surgery involves directly opening the skin, the levator aponeurosis is the first muscle encountered.

This is a surgical method where the skin is incised to directly manipulate the levator aponeurosis.

Therefore, it is a good option for cases involving:

Skin sagging,

Thick skin,

Excessive fat,

Severe ptosis...

Today, we looked into eye shape correction surgery. ^^

Was this helpful? Did it resolve some of your questions?

In the next session, we will look into canthoplasty (epicanthoplasty/lateral canthoplasty). Just like double eyelid surgery, canthoplasty is an important procedure for compensating for the shortcomings of the eyes and creating a more refreshed and bright impression!