Changes in Refraction and Visual Acuity after Upper Eyelid Blepharoplasty versus Posterior Approach Ptosis Procedures

To evaluate surgically induced refractive changes (SIRC) and visual acuity (VA) changes after blepharoplasty combined with posterior approach ptosis surgery (Müller's muscle-conjunctival resection [MMCR]) versus upper eyelid blepharoplasty alone.

In this prospective, comparative, clinical study on patients undergoing MMCR and blepharoplasty, comprehensive ophthalmic examinations were performed preoperatively and 3 months postoperatively. SIRC were calculated with the 10-step Holladay method.

Fifty-six patients participated in the study, 31 in the blepharoplasty group and 25 in the ptosis group. logMAR VA improved significantly after surgery in both groups (p < 0.001). In both groups, most patients showed significant changes in SIRC sphere and spherical equivalent of >0.5 D (blepharoplasty group: 61.29 and 67.74%; ptosis group: 72.72 and 72.72%, respectively). Patients undergoing combined blepharoplasty ptosis surgery showed the greatest SIRC cylinder.

Upper eyelid blepharoplasty with or without MMCR is associated with significant SIRC 3 months postoperatively. This may affect decision-making for all patients, especially for those who intend to seek refractive correction in addition to the index upper eyelid surgery.