The ophthalmologist must first assess the patients’ overall health and diagnose the actual cause of the drooping. This ensures that the correct treatment is given, and helps to protect against any possible complications resulting from either the treatment itself or other illnesses the patient may have.

Either condition can be treated with blepharoplasty, in which the doctor surgically removes excessive skin and fat from the eyelid, before stitching the wound so that both eyelids rest at an equal height and appear natural. The procedure relies heavily on the expertise of the surgeon, as the skin on and around the eyelid(s) is especially delicate, and does not allow for additional surgeries.

The procedure takes approximately 1 hour per eye to complete. Patients may choose to be given either general anesthesia, IV sedation, or local anesthesia. After surgery, patients are required to rest before returning home the same day.

Eye patches or gauze is not necessary. However, patients will experience swelling and bruising – with intense swelling within the first week after surgery. Once the stitches are removed, swelling will improve and return to normal within 1-2 months. Patients must clean with their wound with saline solution in the mornings, evenings, and before bedtime, and should also do their best to avoid getting the wound wet. Medications should be taken as prescribed by the doctor.

Patients should also avoid activities which cause eye strain as much as possible for the first 1-2 weeks in order to prevent dry eyes; avoid using a computer, reading, or staring at a smartphone for long periods of time. Dark glasses should also be worn throughout the day, as they will protect not only against bright light but also against dust and wind.

As the eyelids are incredibly delicate, ptosis, along with other eyelid conditions, must only be treated by an ophthalmic plastic and reconstructive specialist or oculoplastic specialist.