Blepharoptosis is a common complaint of eyelid malposition in which the upper eyelid is lower than normal. There are multiple types of blepharoptosis based on cause, and important studies have recently been published on one type, myogenic blepharoptosis. There have classically been three methods for correcting blepharoptosis. For the most severe cases, frontalis slings are often performed. New materials, such as polyester mesh, have shown promise as alternatives in forming frontalis slings. A recent paper has suggested a new algorithm for another method of blepharoptosis correction, the conjunctiva-Müller muscle resection. The effectiveness of the third type of procedure for blepharoptosis correction, the external levator advancement, has been reinforced in a study examining the procedure in cases of congenital blepharoptosis.
Abbreviations:ePTFE expanded polytetrafluoroethylene, MG myasthenia gravis, MRD1 margin reflex distance one
Blepharoptosis, or drooping of the upper eyelid, is a common ophthalmic problem found in all age groups. It has multiple causes. Many, but not all, types of blepharoptosis are treated surgically. There are three classic surgical procedures for the treatment of ptosis: frontalis suspension, levator resection, and Müller muscle-conjunctival resection. There are variations on the execution and materials used for each of these procedures, but basic principles hold true within each category. Which type of surgical procedure, if any, is appropriate for a given patient's ptosis is determined by the cause and extent of the ptosis.