Ptosis after blepharoplasty.

Abstract

Ptosis is a complication that can arise after blepharoplasty resulting in lid asymmetry. It should be recognized early and intervention directed at its underlying anatomical cause. Ptosis can be secondary to lid edema, hematoma, septal levator adhesions, septal suturing, supratarsal fixation, and levator complex injury. Injury to the levator complex can be rarefaction, dehiscence, or disinsertion. Evaluation of this condition involves assessment of the degree of ptosis and the amount of levator function. Severe ptosis with poor levator function requires reexploration and repair of the levator mechanism. Mild or moderate ptosis may resolve spontaneously and can be managed expectantly. Chronic cases (longer than 3 months) may need exploration, and the procedure used is guided by the amount of levator function present.