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Ptosis Surgery at Wave Plastic Surgery in Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Francisco

Understanding Ptosis

Ptosis, or drooping of the upper eyelid, happens when the levator muscle weakens, making it challenging to keep the eyes fully open. This can affect one or both eyes, often giving a tired, sleepy, or older appearance. It can even obstruct vision in more severe cases, leading to strain and discomfort.

At Wave Plastic Surgery & Aesthetic Laser Center, we specialize in ptosis repair techniques that restore function and aesthetics, helping patients achieve a naturally refreshed look.

Types of Ptosis

Ptosis can be classified based on its cause and severity. Understanding the type of ptosis is essential when choosing the most effective treatment. 

1. Congenital Ptosis

Some individuals are born with ptosis due to an underdeveloped levator muscle. This condition can range from mild to severe and may worsen over time if left untreated. Early intervention is key to preventing vision problems like amblyopia (lazy eye) in infants. Without treatment, children may habitually tilt their heads or lift their eyebrows to compensate, leading to forehead strain.

2. Acquired Ptosis

Acquired ptosis typically develops as people age, but it can also result from trauma, prolonged contact lens wear, or underlying neurological conditions. Over time, the levator muscle stretches or weakens, causing the eyelid to droop. Patients often notice their eyes appearing smaller or having difficulty keeping them open by the end of the day.

Severity of Ptosis

The severity of ptosis ranges from mild to severe, affecting appearance and daily activities. Mild cases may only alter the shape of the eyes, creating an asymmetrical or fatigued look. More pronounced cases can make it difficult to keep the eyes open without straining the forehead muscles, leading to discomfort and headaches. 

Ptosis is classified based on the degree of eyelid drooping:

Ptosis Correction before and after

Our expert surgeons assess each case individually to develop a customized treatment plan that restores function and natural beauty.

Before and After Photos

Visit our before and after patient gallery and our transformation gallery to view real patient results from eyelid procedures performed at Wave Plastic Surgery. These images showcase the transformative effects of eyelid surgery and can help you set realistic expectations for your results.

Wave Plastic Sugery - California - before and after photos of upper bleph
Wave Plastic Surgery - Upper Bleph
Ptosis Surgery Upper Bleph 07

Benefits of Ptosis Repair

Ptosis surgery can significantly improve both vision and quality of life. Many patients also experience difficulty with daily activities and find that ptosis correction offers long-term improvement in eyelid function, appearance, and overall confidence.

1. Functional Benefits

2. Aesthetic Benefits

Ptosis Repair at Wave Plastic Surgery

Ptosis repair is a delicate procedure that requires precision and expertise to achieve natural-looking results. At Wave Plastic Surgery, we customize each procedure to meet the unique needs of our patients, prioritizing safety and aesthetic harmony. We offer state-of-the-art ptosis correction methods for the best functional and cosmetic results. Some of our surgical techniques include:

1. Surgical Techniques

Levator Advancement (Traditional Ptosis Repair)

  • Ideal for mild to moderate ptosis
    Tightens the levator muscle through a small incision in the eyelid crease
    Provides a natural-looking and long-lasting lift

Müller’s Muscle Resection

  • Best for patients with mild ptosis who respond well to phenylephrine eye drops
  • Shortens the Müller’s muscle to elevate the eyelid
  • Less invasive, with minimal downtime

Frontalis Sling Procedure

  • Used for severe ptosis or cases where the levator muscle is too weak to be effectively repaired
  • Utilizes a small sling to connect the eyelid to the forehead muscle, allowing patients to lift their eyelids using their brows

2. Minimally Invasive Ptosis Correction

Wave Plastic Surgery offers a non-incisional ptosis repair technique for borderline or mild cases that minimizes scarring and reduces recovery time. This approach is particularly beneficial for patients seeking revision eyelid surgery or those who wish to avoid further incisions.

The Ptosis Repair Procedure

Undergoing ptosis repair with the renowned eyelid surgery specialists at Wave Plastic Surgery is a step-by-step process that begins with a thorough evaluation and a personalized treatment plan. We aim to ensure that every patient understands the procedure, recovery timeline, and expected results before moving forward. 

1. Consultation

During your personalized consultation, our expert surgeons will assess the severity of your ptosis, discuss your goals, and determine the most appropriate surgical plan. We use 3D imaging technology to help visualize potential outcomes and ensure a precise, tailored approach.

2. Surgical Process

  • Performed under local anesthesia with sedation
  • Takes approximately 45 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on complexity
  • Fine sutures are used to minimize scarring
  • Patients can go home the same day after surgery

3. Recovery Timeline

  • First 3-7 days: Swelling and bruising are most noticeable
  • 1 week: Sutures are removed
  • 2-4 weeks: Most swelling subsides, and results become more defined
  • 3-6 months: Final results fully settle

Post-operative care includes using cold compresses, avoiding strenuous activities, and following Wave Plastic Surgery’s specialized recovery plan to ensure optimal healing.

Why Choose Wave Plastic Surgery for Ptosis Surgery?

  • Board-Certified Surgeons: Extensive experience in eyelid and facial aesthetics
  • State-of-the-Art Techniques: Utilizing the latest advancements for optimal results
  • Patient-Centered Approach: Personalized care plans tailored to each individual
  • Natural-Looking Results: A focus on achieving subtle, balanced, and long-lasting outcomes

Schedule a Consultation Today

If droopy eyelids affect your vision or confidence, ptosis correction may be the solution. Contact Wave Plastic Surgery & Aesthetic Laser Center today to schedule your personalized consultation with our expert surgeons and learn how we can help you achieve brighter, more youthful eyes.

Call us today or book an appointment online!

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Get Your Consultation Today

Give us a call today to schedule your double eyelid surgery consultation with one of our plastic surgeons at Wave Plastic Surgery.

Our Ptosis Surgery Specialists

Plastic Surgeon Peter Lee

Peter Lee

M.D., F.A.C.S.

Dr. Peter is CEO and Chief Surgeon of WAVE Plastic Surgery Center with over 20 years of plastic surgery experience, overlooking 30K+ successful plastic surgery cases. He has mentored master surgeons around the world in state-of-the-art techniques, and has been inducted into the RealSelf 100 & 500 Hall of Fame.

His many accolades and shining results are evidence of Peter’s expertise.

Plastic Surgeon Ben Lee

Ben Lee

M.D., F.A.C.S.

Throughout 20+ years in aesthetic plastic surgery, Dr. Ben Lee has always been passionate about using his skills to impart a lasting, positive impact on the lives of his patients.

“Time and time again, I have witnessed dramatic improvements in a patient’s confidence and well-being after a relatively minor cosmetic or reconstructive procedure. As a surgeon, that brings me great joy.” — Dr. Ben Lee

Plastic Surgeon Denise -Wong

Denise Wong

M.D., F.A.C.S.

With a focus on Upper Eyelid Surgery, Dr. Wong has a deep understanding of the unique anatomy of the eyelid which is critical in performing this highly technical and intricate surgery. She is experienced in approaching various specific eyelid characteristics for different ethnicities, especially Asian cultures.

She uses precise microplastic surgical techniques to enhance the natural shape and inherent beauty of your eyes, making them appear bigger and brighter.

Medically Reviewed By Dr. Ben Lee

M.D., F.A.C.S.

Proudly using his creativity to help patients regain a sense of wholeness and confidence, Dr. Ben Lee takes a very patient-centered approach to care.

Learn More About Dr. Ben Lee