SCHEDULE A CONSULTATIONPtosis (Droopy/Sleepy Eyes)
WHAT IS PTOSIS?
Ptosis is a condition where the upper eyelid margin (where the eyelashes are) droops down over the eye. In severe cases it can cover the pupil and actually obstruct the vision. Ptosis causes a person to look “heavy lidded,” sleepy, and disengaged from people around them. It is distinctly different from when bags and extra skin hang down which are fixed with a blepharoplasty. Ptosis can have many different causes, both congenital (inherited) and acquired after we are born.
The most common cause of ptosis is simply aging, where one or both of the two muscles (levator palpebrae superioris and Mueller’s muscle) responsible for raising the eyelid lose their strength and elasticity over time. Habits like rubbing your eyes, washing them with pressure, contact lens wear, and other minor traumas add up over time to cause ptosis. Dr. Stout uses a variety of procedures to repair ptosis depending upon the cause. The procedure he most commonly performs is done underneath the eyelid so there is no skin incision or possibility of creating a scar.
I AM INTERESTED. HOW SHOULD I PROCEED?
Dr. Stout’s goal during the consultation is to provide the patient with information and teach them as much as possible. He begins by listening and will ask the patient what they would like to discuss and what their goals are. The patient’s input is very important. This allows Dr. Stout to work together with the patient through the decision-making process and establish a plan based upon their goals. He believes that knowledge is empowering as it enables his patients to make decisions with confidence and makes them a better partner in the entire process.
Dr. Stout is happy to have the patient bring a family member or friend to the consultation to ask questions and listen. He encourages patients to bring up any concerns that they may have. His consultations are designed to understand each patient’s situation, teach them and give them honest advice so they leave with useful knowledge with which to consider their options.
If you are considering this procedure, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Stout.
