Ptosis Repair in Denver | Drooping Eyelid Repair

Blepharoplasty guide book for patients written by Dr Thiagarajah

Restore natural eyelid height

(without changing who you are)

If drooping upper eyelids (ptosis) make your eyes look uneven, limit your vision, or create a tired expression, ptosis repair can help. At Denver Eyelid Specialists in Greenwood Village (serving Denver, Cherry Creek, and the Denver Tech Center), Dr. Chris Thiagarajah, MD (ASOPRS) performs highly precise eyelid lift procedures that restore function and symmetry—while keeping your expression natural.

Quick facts

Procedure time: ~45–60 minutes per side (varies by technique)
Anesthesia: local with oral sedation or light IV sedation
Setting: accredited outpatient surgery center
Downtime: most patients resume normal activities in ~7–10 days

What is ptosis repair?

Ptosis repair raises the upper eyelid margin (the lash line) to its normal height so the eyes open fully and evenly. Depending on the cause and severity, Dr. Thiagarajah uses different approaches:

Internal approach (Müller’s muscle-conjunctival resection): hidden incision inside the eyelid, suited for mild ptosis.
External approach (levator advancement/repair): tiny incision in the natural crease to adjust the eyelid lifting muscle.
Complex repair: for trauma, prior surgery, or severe droop.

The goal: restore balance, improve vision when blocked, and maintain your natural look.

What it can improve

Eyelids that sit too low, covering part of the pupil
Uneven eyelids (one lower than the other)
Difficulty seeing in the upper field of vision
Tired or “sleepy” appearance despite feeling rested

Good to know

Ptosis repair is different from blepharoplasty. Blepharoplasty removes extra skin; ptosis repair lifts the lid margin itself. Many patients benefit from a combination when both skin excess and true droop are present.

Who’s a good candidate?

Healthy adults with eyelid droop interfering with vision or symmetry
Children with congenital ptosis (to prevent amblyopia)
Realistic goals: “open eyes, same me”
Men and women, with planning tailored for masculine vs. feminine eyelid creases

How Dr. Thiagarajah plans your surgery

Margin reflex distance (MRD) test: measures exactly how low the eyelid rests
Levator function test: determines eyelid muscle strength and repair method
Crease mapping: incision hidden in your natural crease (if external approach)
Symmetry planning: precise adjustments to match both eyes

The procedure (step by step)

Marking & photos in the upright position
Comfort anesthesia (local + light sedation)
Internal or external approach depending on your anatomy
Muscle tightening/advancement for proper lift
Fine sutures (hidden in crease or inside eyelid)
Cold compress and aftercare review before heading home

Recovery timeline

Day 0–2: swelling, mild tightness; icing and head elevation
Day 3–5: bruising fades; light walking OK
Day 6–7: sutures (if external) removed; eyes look more open
Week 3: symmetry continues to refine; lids look natural in daily settings
Month 3: final results with stable lid height and crease

Activity: avoid heavy workouts, hot yoga, or swimming ~2 weeks.
Contacts/glasses: usually resume ~1–2 weeks, case dependent.

Risks & safety (brief)

Temporary dryness, irritation, or bruising
Asymmetry (usually minor, may refine over time)
Rare over- or under-correction requiring touch-up
Infection, bleeding/hematoma, lid contour issues (rare)

Choosing an ASOPRS-trained oculoplastic surgeon reduces risks and ensures careful attention to both eyelid position and eye-surface health.

Cost & financing

Fees vary depending on complexity, technique, and whether combined with blepharoplasty. A written quote is provided at consultation. In medically necessary cases (where vision is blocked), insurance may cover part of the procedure.

Why patients in Denver choose Dr. Thiagarajah

ASOPRS oculoplastic surgeon with thousands of eyelid surgeries performed
Specializes in both functional and cosmetic eyelid procedures
Focus on natural, conservative outcomes—no “surprised” look
Extensive before/after gallery and educational content
Convenient location near Cherry Creek, DTC, Greenwood Village

📞 See real Denver ptosis repair results and book a consult: 720-386-1989

Ptosis Repair FAQs

How do I know if I need ptosis repair or blepharoplasty?

If your lid margin (lashes) rests too low and covers the pupil, ptosis repair is needed. If excess skin hides your crease but the lid height is normal, blepharoplasty is the answer. Many patients need both.

Will my eyes look different?

Your eyes will look naturally open—not wide or artificial. We try to avoid overcorrection.

Is there a scar?

The external approach hides the incision in your crease; the internal approach leaves no visible scar.

What about dry eye?

We evaluate tear film carefully. Some patients notice temporary dryness that improves as swelling resolves.

When can I exercise again?

Light walking right away; more strenuous workouts after your first follow-up, unless advised otherwise.

Look at Before and After Photos

Schedule a Consultation

Medically reviewed by Chris Thiagarajah, MD (ASOPRS) —

Oculoplastic Surgeon,

Denver Eyelid Specialists. Published: updated regularly

• Last reviewed: 9/15/2025