Why Individuals Who Wear Contacts Seek Out Blepharoplasty

Somewhat discouraging for those of us with less than stellar vision, a recent study published in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal shows that contact lenses contribute to what is known medically as ptosis. Manifesting as a drooping upper eyelid, ptosis proves to be more than aesthetically displeasing as a sagging upper lid can inhibit one’s vision. Researchers found that those who did not require contact lenses had experienced far less of a drooping upper lid than those who wore contact lenses.

Coming to this Conclusion

Curious as to how different environmental factors influenced ptosis, researchers gathered 96 sets of identical twins that, between the two of them, had differing levels of ptosis. With a genetic predisposition to having similar eyelid features, identical twins made for a viable test group.

Not only measuring contact lens usage, researchers examined the effects of body mass index (BMI), smoking, and sun exposure as well as alcohol, stress, and sleep habits. While none of these factors proved to have a significant statistical impact on eyelid droopiness — the addition of a contact lens did.

Researchers found that twins who did not require contact lenses had a mean ptosis measurement of one millimeter. Elevated to 1.41mm with soft contact wear — the number was even higher at 1.84mm for those with hard lenses. “The difference between one millimeter and two may not seem like much, but when it comes to eyelids, it is significant,” explains the study’s lead author, Dr. Bahman Guyuron. A board-certified plastic surgeon himself, he continues, “Plastic surgeons who specialize in surgery of the lower and upper eyelids attest that even a ½ millimeter can make a world of difference when it comes to vision and overall appearance.”

Blepharoplasty Can Help

While it is difficult to improve upon our vision, with blepharoplasty, we are able to improve upon and lessen the severity of ptosis. More commonly known as eyelid surgery, upper blepharoplasty addresses a drooping upper eyelid by removing excess and sagging skin. To address a tired under eye, your Midsota surgeon may recommend lower blepharoplasty in conjunction with upper blepharoplasty. Whether performed separately or together, blepharoplasty rejuvenates the eye area and helps to correct ptosis by restoring proper vision.

Righting the Eye at Midsota Plastic Surgeons

Ptosis is not limited to those who wear contacts, so whether you wear or do not wear contacts, blepharoplasty may be able to help you!

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