If one or both of your upper eyelids seem to droop lower than they should–covering the iris or even partially blocking your vision–you may be experiencing a condition called ptosis. Also known as a droopy upper eyelid, this condition can affect both your appearance and your ability to see clearly.
At her oculoplastic surgery practice in Irvine, CA, Dr. Melanie Ho Erb performs highly precise ptosis repair surgery to lift and reposition the upper eyelid for both functional and cosmetic improvement. With extensive experience in eyelid anatomy and muscle correction, she offers patients natural-looking results with restored symmetry, expression, and visual comfort.
My experience with Dr. Erb and her staff has been amazing. I am very, very happy with my results (ptosis repair), the entire process was easy and I felt reassured and educated on what I was signing up for. Her and her staff were more than accommodating and I would without a doubt recommend this business for anyone, especially anyone new/interested in cosmetic enhancements. I couldn’t say enough good things about my experience here!
What Is Ptosis?
Ptosis (pronounced toe-sis) refers to the abnormal drooping of the upper eyelid. It can occur in one or both eyes and may result from:
- Weakness or stretching of the levator muscle (the muscle that lifts the eyelid)
- Aging or gravity-related eyelid changes
- Previous trauma, surgery, or long-term contact lens wear
- Neurological or congenital causes
In mild cases, ptosis can make the eyes appear tired, sleepy, or uneven. In more advanced cases, it can interfere with daily activities like reading, driving, or maintaining eye contact.
Droopy Eyelid Correction Surgery: How It Works
Ptosis repair involves tightening the muscle that opens the eyelid.
“My goal is to make you look more awake and bright eyed and bushytailed.”– Dr. Melanie Ho Erb
Signs You May Need Ptosis Surgery
- One eyelid sits visibly lower than the other
- Eyes appear uneven or “lazy” in photos
- You often raise your eyebrows to compensate for drooping
- You experience eye strain, fatigue, or forehead tension
- Your eyes look small
Signs You May Need Ptosis Surgery
- One eyelid sits visibly lower than the other
- Eyes appear uneven or “lazy” in photos
- You often raise your eyebrows to compensate for drooping
- You experience eye strain, fatigue, or forehead tension
- Vision is partially blocked by a drooping lid
- You’ve been told you look “tired” or “unfocused” despite feeling fine
Even if you’ve had previous eyelid or filler procedures, Dr. Erb can assess whether droopy eyelid correction surgery will safely restore your eyelid position and appearance.
What to Expect from Surgery and Recovery
Ptosis surgery is typically performed in Dr. Erb’s Irvine office using numbing injections and oral relaxing pills and oral sleeping pills. In some cases, it may be done in a surgery center, depending on the patient’s needs.
- Procedure time: Under 1 hour
- Incisions: No incision or scar seen on the outside of the eyelid; it is on the inside the eyelid
- Downtime: Bruising and swelling for 7 days on average
- Results: Immediate improvement in lid height and function, with full healing in several months
- Scarring: Minimal and well-hidden
Many patients are surprised at how comfortable and straightforward recovery is–especially when the procedure is performed with meticulous care.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ptosis Repair
-
No. Ptosis involves the muscle that opens the eye. Blepharoplasty involves the skin, fat, and muscle that closes the eye. The upper eyelid is like a Roman shade. A ptosis repair alone, will make the upper lid look bright eyed and open, but will also make the eyelid look like it has more skin or will lower the crease and fold.
-
You’ll look more balanced and alert, but still like yourself. Dr. Erb’s results are natural, never overcorrected.
-
That’s common. Dr. Erb will adjust both eyelids as needed to restore symmetry and facial balance.
-
In some cases, yes–especially if caused by aging or long-term muscle stretching. However, most patients enjoy long-lasting results.
Why Choose Dr. Melanie Ho Erb for Ptosis Repair?
Ptosis repair requires more than aesthetic skill–it demands an intricate understanding of eyelid function, musculature, and vision preservation. As an ASOPRS-certified oculoplastic surgeon, Dr. Erb brings elite training to every ptosis case and is one of the few specialists in Southern California focused solely on the eyelids and upper face.
Patients trust her because she offers:
- Thousands of eyelid surgeries performed with precision and consistency
- Hands-on care–Dr. Erb performs every step of your treatment
- Functional correction with aesthetic attention to symmetry and subtlety
Explore Droopy Eyelid Correction Surgery in Irvine
If one of your eyelids is interfering with your vision, symmetry, or confidence, ptosis repair may be the most important step you take toward restoring your natural appearance. With advanced training and an eye for both form and function, Dr. Melanie Ho Erb delivers elegant, effective results in even the most complex cases.
Schedule your consultation in Irvine today to learn more about ptosis surgery and how it can improve your vision and appearance.
Medically reviewed by Melanie Ho Erb, M.D. on