Maximal levator resection in the treatment of unilateral congenital ptosis with poor levator function

From 1994 to 1999, 1121 operations for blepharoptosis were performed in our department on 987 patients. In 44 cases we found a moderate to severe congenital ptosis with a levator function of less than 2 mm. Until today, in such cases, it is recommended to use a frontalis suspension in order to elevate the upper eyelid. Unsatisfactory cosmetic results in facial expression and lack of skin-fold are only a few of the disadvantages of this technique. In 1994, therefore, we decided to perform a maximal levator resection in the treatment of unilateral congenital ptosis with poor levator function. All children included in our study were younger than six years of age. The ptosis was moderate (2-4 mm) in 36/44 and severe (>4 mm) in 8/44 cases. The levator function was less than 2 mm. Complete transsection of the medial and lateral horn of the levator aponeurosis under preservation of the Whitnall ligament is the most important surgical step in mobilizing the levator muscle. A satisfactory eyelid elevation (generally considered to be a difference of less than 1 mm between both eyelid fissures) was achieved in 36/44 cases. Our results indicate that, in contrast to established practice, maximal levator resection is the treatment of choice for congenital ptosis with poor levator function.