PTOSIS REPAIR IN NYC

Correct Drooping Eyelids and Restore Facial Balance with Dr. Robert Schwarcz

When your upper eyelids begin to droop beyond the lash line, it’s not just a cosmetic issue—it can interfere with your vision, create asymmetry, and cause facial fatigue. This condition, known as ptosis, is common in both men and women and often progresses with age or after trauma or prior eyelid surgery. Fortunately, ptosis repair in NYC offers a highly effective and natural-looking solution.

Performed by Dr. Robert Schwarcz, a double board-certified oculofacial plastic surgeon with over 20 years of experience, ptosis surgery can dramatically improve both the appearance and function of your eyes. This procedure lifts the upper eyelid by tightening or reattaching the muscle responsible for eyelid elevation, correcting eyelid droop and restoring balance to the face. Consultations and follow-ups are available at our Upper East Side Manhattan office as well as in Rye, NY, while all surgeries are performed in our JCAHO-certified surgical suite in Manhattan for optimal safety and comfort.

What Is Ptosis?

Ptosis (pronounced “toe-sis”) refers to the drooping of the upper eyelid caused by a weakening, stretching, or disconnection of the levator muscle, which is responsible for lifting the eyelid. This condition can affect one or both eyes and may develop gradually over time or appear suddenly. In more severe cases, the eyelid may descend enough to partially or fully block the pupil, making it difficult to see clearly.

There are several causes of ptosis. It can be congenital (present at birth), age-related (known as involutional ptosis), caused by trauma or previous eye surgery, or linked to neurological or muscular disorders. Most adult cases are due to age-related changes, where the levator muscle detaches or weakens due to years of blinking, rubbing the eyes, or contact lens use.

How Ptosis Affects Appearance and Function

Cosmetically, ptosis can make the eyes appear small, tired, or uneven. It may also contribute to a heavy brow or create visible asymmetry between the two eyes. Many patients find themselves unintentionally raising their forehead or eyebrows throughout the day to compensate for blocked vision, which can lead to headaches, tension, and additional facial strain.

Functionally, ptosis may interfere with daily tasks such as reading, driving, or using a computer. In moderate to severe cases, the eyelid obstructs the upper field of vision, making it difficult to see objects above or directly in front of you. Ptosis surgery addresses these issues at the muscular level, creating both aesthetic and functional improvement.

What Happens During Ptosis Repair?

Ptosis repair surgery involves tightening or reattaching the levator muscle or the Müller’s muscle—both of which play a role in eyelid elevation. The technique used depends on the severity and cause of your ptosis, as well as the strength of the eyelid’s lifting function.

In many cases, Dr. Schwarcz performs the surgery through a hidden incision placed within the natural crease of the upper eyelid. This allows for precise access to the levator muscle and ensures that any scarring is virtually invisible after healing. For mild to moderate cases, a technique called Müller’s muscle conjunctival resection (MMCR) may be used, which shortens the muscle from the inside of the eyelid, avoiding external incisions altogether.

Each surgical plan is customized to restore proper eyelid height and contour while maintaining a natural eyelid shape and blink function. Dr. Schwarcz’s work is defined by subtlety and symmetry—his goal is always to enhance what’s already there, not to dramatically alter your facial features.

Are You a Candidate for Ptosis Surgery?

You may be a good candidate for ptosis repair if you have drooping upper eyelids that interfere with your vision, cause frequent eye fatigue, or create a sleepy, uneven look. Many patients pursue the procedure to improve symmetry and restore alertness to their expression. Ideal candidates are healthy, non-smoking adults who do not have uncontrolled medical conditions or active eye diseases.

During your consultation, Dr. Schwarcz will evaluate your eyelid function, muscle strength, and overall eye health. In some cases, he may recommend combining ptosis repair with upper blepharoplasty if both skin excess and muscle weakness are present. When performed together, these procedures create a dramatically refreshed appearance and reduce the likelihood of eyelid heaviness returning in the future.

When Ptosis Surgery Might Not Be Right

Ptosis repair may not be recommended for patients with unstable health, uncontrolled dry eye syndrome, or certain neuromuscular disorders. If you are prone to poor wound healing or keloid scarring, the risks may outweigh the benefits unless carefully managed. Patients with unrealistic expectations or hoping for a dramatic change beyond what eyelid surgery can provide may be better suited for a more comprehensive facial rejuvenation plan.

If you're not yet ready for surgery or your ptosis is mild, non-surgical alternatives such as Upneeq eye drops may provide temporary relief.

What Is Upneeq?

Upneeq is an FDA-approved prescription eye drop that temporarily lifts the upper eyelid by stimulating the Müller’s muscle. Applied once daily, it provides a mild lift of 1–2 millimeters and is commonly used for patients with mild ptosis or those looking for a non-surgical solution.

While Upneeq can enhance the appearance of the eyes and reduce droopiness, the results are short-lived and depend on daily use. It’s not a substitute for surgery in moderate to severe cases, but it may be used as a short-term option or as a diagnostic tool to determine how a surgical lift might look.

Planning and Preparation

If you’re moving forward with ptosis repair, your preparation will begin with a detailed consultation and a review of your medical history. Dr. Schwarcz may take clinical photographs and perform tests to measure eyelid height, muscle strength, and tear function. These details help determine the best surgical approach for your anatomy.

You’ll be asked to stop taking any blood-thinning medications, aspirin, or supplements such as fish oil at least two weeks before your procedure. Smoking should be stopped in advance, as it impairs healing and increases complication risk. Most patients take 1–2 weeks off from work or social obligations, though recovery is generally smooth.

The Procedure and Recovery

Ptosis repair is performed in our JCAHO-accredited surgical suite in Manhattan under local anesthesia with sedation. The surgery typically takes 1–2 hours and is done on an outpatient basis. Afterward, you’ll be monitored in recovery and discharged with complete post-op instructions and a follow-up appointment already scheduled.

Swelling and mild bruising are expected in the first few days. You may experience some tightness or light sensitivity, but discomfort is typically minimal and easily managed with cold compresses and prescribed medication. Sutures are usually removed within the first week. Most patients are ready to return to light activity in 7–10 days and feel socially comfortable by the two-week mark. Final results become more apparent over several weeks as the tissue settles and any residual swelling fades.

Long-Term Results

Ptosis repair provides both aesthetic and functional benefits. Patients often report looking more refreshed, symmetrical, and alert. Functionally, many experience improved peripheral vision and reduced eye fatigue. Because the underlying muscle is repaired, the results are long-lasting—often permanent—though natural aging will continue.

Dr. Schwarcz’s goal is to create a lift that appears effortless and natural. You won’t look “surprised” or artificial—just like a more rested, youthful version of yourself.

Complementary Procedures

Many patients combine ptosis repair with other procedures to achieve a comprehensive and balanced result. Popular combinations include:

• Upper Blepharoplasty

• Lower Blepharoplasty

• Brow Lift (Endoscopic or Temporal)

• Fat Transfer

Alternative Treatments

If you’re not quite ready for surgery, there are still options to explore. Temporary or non-invasive treatments include:

• Upneeq Prescription Eye Drops

• CO2 Laser for Eyelid Skin Texture

• Dysport or Botox for Brow Elevation

These treatments can enhance appearance or delay surgery, but they do not offer the structural correction of ptosis repair.

Why Choose Dr. Robert Schwarcz?

Dr. Robert Schwarcz is one of NYC’s most sought-after oculofacial plastic surgeons, known for delivering subtle, elegant results that align with your natural anatomy. With over 20 years of surgical experience and a background in both cosmetic and functional eye surgery, he brings an unmatched level of precision and artistry to every procedure.

All ptosis repairs are performed by Dr. Schwarcz himself—never delegated—ensuring that you receive personalized care and expert hands from start to finish. Surgeries take place in our fully accredited Upper East Side facility, and consultations are available in both Manhattan and Rye, NY.

Ready to Restore Your Look and Vision?

Click the Request an Appointment button below to schedule your consultation and find out if ptosis repair is right for you.