{"id":11126,"date":"2026-09-05T17:05:32","date_gmt":"2026-09-05T08:05:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/kojihifu.com\/english\/?p=11126"},"modified":"2026-09-05T17:05:33","modified_gmt":"2026-09-05T08:05:33","slug":"ptosis-correction-surgery-tokyo","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/kojihifu.com\/english\/ptosis-correction-surgery-tokyo\/","title":{"rendered":"Ptosis Correction Surgery Tokyo: Droopy Eyelid Treatment"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><script type=\"application\/ld+json\">{\"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\", \"@type\": \"FAQPage\", \"mainEntity\": [{\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"How long does ptosis surgery take, and will I be asleep?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Adult ptosis correction is usually performed under local anaesthesia so the surgeon can check eyelid height while you open and close your eyes. One comparative study recorded mean operating times of about 45 minutes for levator advancement and about 20 minutes for a M\u00fcller's muscle procedure, excluding preparation.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Can I have surgery if I wear contact lenses?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Yes, but lenses must be paused for a period after surgery, and long-term hard lens wear is itself associated with acquired ptosis. Bring your lens history to the consultation, as it often explains why the problem developed earlier than expected.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Will my health insurance cover it if I am not Japanese?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Coverage depends on enrolment in Japanese public health insurance, not nationality \u2014 residents enrolled in the system may qualify if the ptosis is functional. Short-term visitors and medical tourists are treated on a self-pay basis.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"How soon can I return to work?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Swelling and bruising generally last about 7 to 14 days, and sutures come out from around day 7. Many patients plan roughly one to two weeks before public-facing commitments.\"}}]}<\/script><\/p>\n<h2>Ptosis Correction Surgery in Tokyo: A Guide to Droopy Eyelid Treatment<\/h2>\n<figure style=\"margin: 1.5em 0;\"><img decoding=\"async\" style=\"width: 100%; max-width: 100%; height: auto; border-radius: 8px;\" title=\"Ptosis correction surgery Tokyo: droopy eyelid tre \u2014 Ptosis Correction Surgery in Tokyo: A Guide to Droopy Eyelid\" src=\"https:\/\/kojihifu.com\/english\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/pexels_3373735_1787441883.webp\" alt=\"Ptosis correction surgery Tokyo: droopy eyelid tre \u2014 Ptosis Correction Surgery in Tokyo: A Guide to Droopy Eyelid\" \/><\/figure>\n<p>If your <strong>upper eyelids<\/strong> feel heavy by the afternoon, if you catch yourself raising your eyebrows to see clearly, or if photographs suggest one eye looks smaller than the other, you may be dealing with ptosis (pronounced &#8220;TOH-sis&#8221;) \u2014 <strong>a drooping upper eyelid.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>It is a common and treatable condition, but it is often mistaken for simple tiredness or ageing skin, and the wrong treatment can leave the underlying problem untouched.<\/p>\n<p>This guide explains what ptosis correction surgery actually repairs, how the main surgical techniques differ, what recovery realistically looks like, and how the cost works in Tokyo under both insurance and self-pay routes.<\/p>\n<p><strong>What you&#8217;ll learn in this article:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>What ptosis is, and how it differs from excess eyelid skin (dermatochalasis)<\/li>\n<li>How levator advancement, M\u00fcller&#8217;s muscle procedures and fascia slings work<\/li>\n<li>Realistic results, recovery timeline and downtime<\/li>\n<li>How ptosis surgery is priced in Tokyo \u2014 insurance-covered versus self-pay<\/li>\n<li>Who is a good candidate, and two things people commonly get wrong<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"kjmc-en-booking-inline\" style=\"background: #f7fbf7; border: 1px solid #d5e6d8; border-radius: 10px; padding: 16px 20px; margin: 26px 0; text-align: center;\">\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 12px; color: #1a3a1f; font-size: 0.95em; line-height: 1.65;\"><strong>Have a question about this treatment?<\/strong><br \/>\nMessage us on LINE or WhatsApp \u2014 our English-speaking team usually replies the same day.<\/p>\n<p style=\"margin: 0; line-height: 1;\"><a style=\"display: inline-flex; align-items: center; gap: 8px; background: #06C755; color: #fff; padding: 10px 20px; border-radius: 8px; text-decoration: none; font-weight: bold; font-size: 0.92em; margin: 4px 6px; white-space: nowrap; vertical-align: middle;\" href=\"https:\/\/line.me\/R\/ti\/p\/@710uitns?ts=05311801&amp;oat_content=url#~\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Book via LINE<\/a><br \/>\n<a style=\"display: inline-flex; align-items: center; gap: 8px; background: #25D366; color: #fff; padding: 10px 20px; border-radius: 8px; text-decoration: none; font-weight: bold; font-size: 0.92em; margin: 4px 6px; white-space: nowrap; vertical-align: middle;\" href=\"https:\/\/whatsapp.com\/channel\/0029VbCA1v85K3zY4MLX2a1h\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Message on WhatsApp<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h2>What Is Ptosis (Droopy Eyelid)?<\/h2>\n<figure style=\"margin: 1.5em 0;\"><img decoding=\"async\" style=\"width: 100%; max-width: 100%; height: auto; border-radius: 8px;\" title=\"Ptosis correction surgery Tokyo: droopy eyelid tre \u2014 What Is Ptosis (Droopy Eyelid)\" src=\"https:\/\/kojihifu.com\/english\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/pexels_5997828_1787441883.webp\" alt=\"Ptosis correction surgery Tokyo: droopy eyelid tre \u2014 What Is Ptosis (Droopy Eyelid)\" \/><\/figure>\n<p><strong>Ptosis<\/strong> means the upper eyelid margin sits lower than it should, partially covering the pupil. The problem lies in the lifting mechanism of the eyelid \u2014 chiefly the levator palpebrae superioris muscle and its tendon-like extension, the levator aponeurosis \u2014 not in the skin itself.<\/p>\n<p>Doctors usually grade severity using the marginal reflex distance (MRD-1): the gap in millimetres between the centre of the pupil and the upper eyelid margin when you look straight ahead. A reduced MRD-1 indicates the eyelid is sitting low; levator function (how far the eyelid travels from downgaze to upgaze) helps determine which technique is appropriate.<\/p>\n<h3>Congenital versus acquired ptosis<\/h3>\n<p><strong>Congenital ptosis<\/strong> is present from birth and usually reflects an underdeveloped levator muscle. In children it needs assessment by an eye specialist, because a lid covering the pupil can interfere with visual development.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Acquired ptosis<\/strong> is far more common in adults. The usual mechanism is aponeurotic: the levator aponeurosis stretches or detaches from the tarsal plate, so the muscle still works but its pull no longer transmits fully to the lid.<\/p>\n<p>Long-term contact lens wear is a recognised contributor. A Japanese case-control study by Kitazawa reported a markedly increased likelihood of acquired blepharoptosis among hard contact lens wearers compared with non-wearers (odds ratio 19.9; 95% CI 6.32\u201362.9), with 90.2% of the ptosis group reporting hard lens use. The study was small (51 patients, 38 controls), so the figure should be read as a strong signal rather than a precise risk estimate.<\/p>\n<h3>Ptosis is not the same as heavy eyelid skin<\/h3>\n<p>Dermatochalasis \u2014 redundant upper eyelid skin that folds over the lash line \u2014 can look identical in the mirror but is a separate problem. Some patients have both, and only an examination can separate them. Getting this distinction right determines whether skin removal, muscle repair, or a combination is appropriate.<\/p>\n<h2>How Ptosis Correction Surgery Works<\/h2>\n<figure style=\"margin: 1.5em 0;\"><img decoding=\"async\" style=\"width: 100%; max-width: 100%; height: auto; border-radius: 8px;\" title=\"Ptosis correction surgery Tokyo: droopy eyelid tre \u2014 How Ptosis Correction Surgery Works\" src=\"https:\/\/kojihifu.com\/english\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/pexels_6048006_1787441884.webp\" alt=\"Ptosis correction surgery Tokyo: droopy eyelid tre \u2014 How Ptosis Correction Surgery Works\" \/><\/figure>\n<p>The aim of surgery is to restore the connection between the eyelid-lifting muscle and the eyelid, so the lid opens with less effort. Most adult procedures are performed under local anaesthesia, and many surgeons ask the patient to open and close the eyes during the operation to check height and symmetry.<\/p>\n<h3>Levator aponeurosis advancement<\/h3>\n<p>This is the standard approach for acquired ptosis with reasonable levator function. Through an incision placed in the natural upper eyelid crease, the surgeon identifies the loosened or detached aponeurosis and re-secures it to the tarsal plate, restoring tension. Excess skin can be addressed in the same operation when needed.<\/p>\n<p>Published series report meaningful eyelid height gains. In a study of 450 patients (810 eyelids) undergoing levator aponeurosis posterior layer plication for mild to moderate ptosis, mean MRD-1 improved from 1.7 \u00b1 0.5 mm before surgery to 3.7 \u00b1 0.4 mm at six months, with 94.9% reaching the target height and symmetry and 5.1% requiring revision.<\/p>\n<h3>M\u00fcller&#8217;s muscle approaches<\/h3>\n<p>For mild ptosis with good levator function, some surgeons use a posterior (inside-the-lid) technique such as M\u00fcller&#8217;s muscle conjunctival resection, which shortens a small smooth muscle that also contributes to lid elevation. Clinical reports indicate this can be quicker to perform, though it suits a narrower range of cases.<\/p>\n<h3>Fascia sling for weak levator function<\/h3>\n<p>When the levator muscle has little or no lifting power \u2014 typical of severe congenital ptosis \u2014 advancement will not help. Instead, the eyelid is connected to the forehead (frontalis) muscle using a strip of fascia, either the patient&#8217;s own thigh fascia or a synthetic equivalent, so the brow does the lifting.<\/p>\n<h3>Technique comparison<\/h3>\n<table style=\"border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%; margin: 20px 0; font-size: 0.95em; border: 1px solid #ccc;\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"border: 1px solid #ccc; padding: 10px 12px; background: #f1faf3; text-align: left; font-weight: bold;\">Technique<\/th>\n<th style=\"border: 1px solid #ccc; padding: 10px 12px; background: #f1faf3; text-align: left; font-weight: bold;\">Typical candidate<\/th>\n<th style=\"border: 1px solid #ccc; padding: 10px 12px; background: #f1faf3; text-align: left; font-weight: bold;\">Access<\/th>\n<th style=\"border: 1px solid #ccc; padding: 10px 12px; background: #f1faf3; text-align: left; font-weight: bold;\">Notes from published data<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #ccc; padding: 10px 12px; vertical-align: top;\">Levator aponeurosis advancement<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #ccc; padding: 10px 12px; vertical-align: top;\">Acquired (age- or contact-lens-related) ptosis with good levator function<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #ccc; padding: 10px 12px; vertical-align: top;\">Skin incision in the eyelid crease<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #ccc; padding: 10px 12px; vertical-align: top;\">Mean operating time 44.9 \u00b1 8.6 min in one comparative series; success 72.2% of eyes in that small cohort, 94.9% of patients in a larger plication series<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #ccc; padding: 10px 12px; vertical-align: top;\">M\u00fcller&#8217;s muscle conjunctival resection<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #ccc; padding: 10px 12px; vertical-align: top;\">Mild ptosis, good levator function<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #ccc; padding: 10px 12px; vertical-align: top;\">Inside the eyelid (no skin incision)<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #ccc; padding: 10px 12px; vertical-align: top;\">Mean operating time 20.4 \u00b1 3.9 min; success 91.7% of eyes; no over-correction recorded in that series<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #ccc; padding: 10px 12px; vertical-align: top;\">Fascia graft \/ frontalis sling<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #ccc; padding: 10px 12px; vertical-align: top;\">Severe or congenital ptosis with poor levator function<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #ccc; padding: 10px 12px; vertical-align: top;\">Eyelid and brow incisions, plus donor site if using own fascia<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #ccc; padding: 10px 12px; vertical-align: top;\">Lifting is driven by the forehead muscle rather than the levator<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p>The comparative figures above come from a single study of 82 eyes, so they indicate tendencies rather than a definitive ranking. Technique selection depends on your levator function, lid height, skin redundancy and eye surface health.<\/p>\n<h2>Expected Results, Recovery and Downtime<\/h2>\n<figure style=\"margin: 1.5em 0;\"><img decoding=\"async\" style=\"width: 100%; max-width: 100%; height: auto; border-radius: 8px;\" title=\"Ptosis correction surgery Tokyo: droopy eyelid tre \u2014 Expected Results, Recovery and Downtime\" src=\"https:\/\/kojihifu.com\/english\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/pexels_14198477_1787441885.webp\" alt=\"Ptosis correction surgery Tokyo: droopy eyelid tre \u2014 Expected Results, Recovery and Downtime\" \/><\/figure>\n<p>Most patients notice a wider, more even eye opening and less reliance on the forehead to lift the lids. Because the eyebrow often relaxes downward once the eyelid works properly, the brow position and forehead lines can change appearance too \u2014 something worth discussing before surgery.<\/p>\n<p>A realistic recovery timeline, based on the guidance our group publishes for this procedure:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Swelling and bruising:<\/strong> approximately 7 to 14 days<\/li>\n<li><strong>Suture removal:<\/strong> from about 7 days after surgery<\/li>\n<li><strong>Make-up:<\/strong> around the eyes only after sutures are removed<\/li>\n<li><strong>Contact lenses:<\/strong> not usable for a period after surgery \u2014 confirm timing with your surgeon<\/li>\n<li><strong>Scar maturation:<\/strong> the incision line stays reddish for roughly one month, then fades to a fine pale line over about two to three months<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Final eyelid height typically settles over weeks to months as swelling resolves. Perfect symmetry cannot be promised in any eyelid operation \u2014 the two sides rarely start out identical \u2014 and a proportion of patients elect a minor adjustment later.<\/p>\n<p>Possible risks include over- or under-correction, asymmetry, temporary difficulty closing the eyes fully, dry eye symptoms, visible scarring, bleeding and infection. These should be reviewed individually at consultation.<\/p>\n<h2>Cost of Ptosis Correction Surgery in Tokyo<\/h2>\n<figure style=\"margin: 1.5em 0;\"><img decoding=\"async\" style=\"width: 100%; max-width: 100%; height: auto; border-radius: 8px;\" title=\"Ptosis correction surgery Tokyo: droopy eyelid tre \u2014 Cost of Ptosis Correction Surgery in Tokyo\" src=\"https:\/\/kojihifu.com\/english\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/pexels_3064717_1787441886.webp\" alt=\"Ptosis correction surgery Tokyo: droopy eyelid tre \u2014 Cost of Ptosis Correction Surgery in Tokyo\" \/><\/figure>\n<p>There are two distinct routes in Japan, and they are priced completely differently.<\/p>\n<h3>Insurance-covered (functional) surgery<\/h3>\n<p>When ptosis causes a genuine functional problem \u2014 obstructed upper visual field, eye strain, chronic forehead compensation \u2014 treatment falls under Japan&#8217;s national health insurance. The national fee schedule (FY2024 revision) lists code K219 for blepharoptosis surgery at 7,200 points for levator advancement, 18,530 points for the fascia graft method, and 6,070 points for other methods. One point equals \u00a510 nationwide, and most insured patients pay 30% of the total, plus separate charges for consultation, tests and follow-up.<\/p>\n<p>Note: this route requires enrolment in Japanese public health insurance. Visitors and medical tourists without it pay privately. Within our group, insurance-based dermatology and ptosis assessment in Japanese is handled at Kojimachi Dermatology &amp; Plastic Surgery Clinic in Ichigaya, which states on its own site that ptosis is an insurance-applicable treatment.<\/p>\n<h3>Self-pay (cosmetic) surgery<\/h3>\n<p>Where the motivation is primarily aesthetic \u2014 eyelid shape, crease design, symmetry \u2014 surgery is self-pay and priced per procedure. Our group&#8217;s published cosmetic price list, effective 1 October 2023, lists ptosis correction (\u773c\u77bc\u4e0b\u5782\u75c7) at \u00a5418,000, with an initial or follow-up consultation fee of \u00a53,300. Prices are subject to revision, so please see the clinic&#8217;s official price page or contact us for a current quote.<\/p>\n<p>Ptosis correction is available at <strong>Kojimachi Dermatology&amp;Plastic Surgery Clinic or \u00a0BIOTOPE CLINIC<\/strong> in Shirokanedai \u2014 feel free to ask about it during a consultation with Dr. Karibe, including whether your case is likely to qualify as functional or cosmetic.<\/p>\n<p>For an accurate quote, please book a consultation.<\/p>\n<div class=\"kjmc-en-booking-inline\" style=\"background: #f7fbf7; border: 1px solid #d5e6d8; border-radius: 10px; padding: 16px 20px; margin: 26px 0; text-align: center;\">\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 12px; color: #1a3a1f; font-size: 0.95em; line-height: 1.65;\"><strong>Have a question about this treatment?<\/strong><br \/>\nMessage us on LINE or WhatsApp \u2014 our English-speaking team usually replies the same day.<\/p>\n<p style=\"margin: 0; line-height: 1;\"><a style=\"display: inline-flex; align-items: center; gap: 8px; background: #06C755; color: #fff; padding: 10px 20px; border-radius: 8px; text-decoration: none; font-weight: bold; font-size: 0.92em; margin: 4px 6px; white-space: nowrap; vertical-align: middle;\" href=\"https:\/\/line.me\/R\/ti\/p\/@710uitns?ts=05311801&amp;oat_content=url#~\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Book via LINE<\/a><br \/>\n<a style=\"display: inline-flex; align-items: center; gap: 8px; background: #25D366; color: #fff; padding: 10px 20px; border-radius: 8px; text-decoration: none; font-weight: bold; font-size: 0.92em; margin: 4px 6px; white-space: nowrap; vertical-align: middle;\" href=\"https:\/\/whatsapp.com\/channel\/0029VbCA1v85K3zY4MLX2a1h\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Message on WhatsApp<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h2>Who Is a Good Candidate \u2014 and Who Should Wait<\/h2>\n<figure style=\"margin: 1.5em 0;\"><img decoding=\"async\" style=\"width: 100%; max-width: 100%; height: auto; border-radius: 8px;\" title=\"Ptosis correction surgery Tokyo: droopy eyelid tre \u2014 Who Is a Good Candidate \u2014 and Who Should Wait\" src=\"https:\/\/kojihifu.com\/english\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/pexels_2078134_1787441887.webp\" alt=\"Ptosis correction surgery Tokyo: droopy eyelid tre \u2014 Who Is a Good Candidate \u2014 and Who Should Wait\" \/><\/figure>\n<p>You may be a reasonable candidate if you have a measurably low eyelid margin, adequate levator function, stable general health, realistic expectations, and symptoms such as visual field obstruction, brow ache or afternoon eyelid heaviness.<\/p>\n<p>Surgery should be delayed or reconsidered if you have significant untreated dry eye or ocular surface disease, an active eye infection or inflammation, poorly controlled bleeding tendency or uncontrolled systemic illness, or a neuromuscular cause that has not yet been investigated. Ptosis that appeared suddenly, fluctuates through the day, or comes with double vision or pupil changes needs medical assessment before any cosmetic discussion \u2014 these patterns can point to conditions such as myasthenia gravis or a nerve problem.<\/p>\n<p>At BIOTOPE CLINIC in Shirokanedai, we frequently see patients who have been managing the problem unconsciously for years \u2014 lifting the brows, tilting the chin up to read, or assuming the change was simply ageing skin. A structured examination is what separates those explanations.<\/p>\n<h2>What People Often Get Wrong<\/h2>\n<h3>&#8220;Double eyelid surgery will fix my droopy eyelid&#8221;<\/h3>\n<p>Suture-method double eyelid surgery creates or refines a crease; it does not reattach a stretched levator aponeurosis. If true ptosis is present, a crease procedure alone can leave the lid still sitting low \u2014 and sometimes makes the height difference more noticeable. Double eyelid surgery (suture method) and transconjunctival blepharoplasty are both offered at BIOTOPE CLINIC, but the first step is establishing which structure is actually responsible.<\/p>\n<h3>&#8220;There are eye drops for this now, so I can skip surgery&#8221;<\/h3>\n<p>A prescription eye drop for acquired ptosis does now exist in Japan: oxymetazoline hydrochloride 0.1% (Upneeq Mini ophthalmic solution) received Japanese manufacturing and marketing approval on 22 December 2025 and was launched on 15 May 2026. It works by stimulating alpha-adrenergic receptors so that M\u00fcller&#8217;s muscle contracts and lifts the upper lid.<\/p>\n<p>Two points are commonly missed. First, the manufacturer states the product is being sold without listing on Japan&#8217;s drug pricing standard, so it is not eligible for public health insurance reimbursement \u2014 it is a self-pay medication. Second, it is a once-daily drop acting on muscle tone, not a structural repair of a detached aponeurosis, so it addresses a different situation from surgery. Whether it is appropriate for you is a question for a doctor who has examined your eyes.<\/p>\n<h2>Where to Get Ptosis Correction in Tokyo<\/h2>\n<p>Within our clinic group, English-speaking consultations are handled at BIOTOPE CLINIC in Shirokanedai (Minato-ku, Tokyo) by Dr. Jun Karibe. Our sister clinic Kojimachi Dermatology &amp; Plastic Surgery Clinic in Ichigaya handles Japanese-language insurance dermatology. Bookings and enquiries in English: LINE or WhatsApp.<\/p>\n<p>Both clinics belong to the same medical group and are directed by Dr. Karibe, a plastic surgeon certified by the Japan Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. For English-speaking patients, BIOTOPE in Shirokanedai is the location to book.<\/p>\n<h2>Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n<dl class=\"kj-faq\">\n<dt>Q. How long does ptosis surgery take, and will I be asleep?<\/dt>\n<dd>Adult ptosis correction is usually performed under local anaesthesia so the surgeon can check eyelid height while you open and close your eyes. One comparative study recorded mean operating times of about 45 minutes for levator advancement and about 20 minutes for a M\u00fcller&#8217;s muscle procedure, excluding preparation.<\/dd>\n<dt>Q. Can I have surgery if I wear contact lenses?<\/dt>\n<dd>Yes, but lenses must be paused for a period after surgery, and long-term hard lens wear is itself associated with acquired ptosis. Bring your lens history to the consultation, as it often explains why the problem developed earlier than expected.<\/dd>\n<dt>Q. Will my health insurance cover it if I am not Japanese?<\/dt>\n<dd>Coverage depends on enrolment in Japanese public health insurance, not nationality \u2014 residents enrolled in the system may qualify if the ptosis is functional. Short-term visitors and medical tourists are treated on a self-pay basis.<\/dd>\n<dt>Q. How soon can I return to work?<\/dt>\n<dd>Swelling and bruising generally last about 7 to 14 days, and sutures come out from around day 7. Many patients plan roughly one to two weeks before public-facing commitments.<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n<div class=\"kjmc-en-booking-inline\" style=\"background: #f7fbf7; border: 1px solid #d5e6d8; border-radius: 10px; padding: 16px 20px; margin: 26px 0; text-align: center;\">\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 12px; color: #1a3a1f; font-size: 0.95em; line-height: 1.65;\"><strong>Have a question about this treatment?<\/strong><br \/>\nMessage us on LINE or WhatsApp \u2014 our English-speaking team usually replies the same day.<\/p>\n<p style=\"margin: 0; line-height: 1;\"><a style=\"display: inline-flex; align-items: center; gap: 8px; background: #06C755; color: #fff; padding: 10px 20px; border-radius: 8px; text-decoration: none; font-weight: bold; font-size: 0.92em; margin: 4px 6px; white-space: nowrap; vertical-align: middle;\" href=\"https:\/\/line.me\/R\/ti\/p\/@710uitns?ts=05311801&amp;oat_content=url#~\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Book via LINE<\/a><br \/>\n<a style=\"display: inline-flex; align-items: center; gap: 8px; background: #25D366; color: #fff; padding: 10px 20px; border-radius: 8px; text-decoration: none; font-weight: bold; font-size: 0.92em; margin: 4px 6px; white-space: nowrap; vertical-align: middle;\" href=\"https:\/\/whatsapp.com\/channel\/0029VbCA1v85K3zY4MLX2a1h\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Message on WhatsApp<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h2>Summary<\/h2>\n<p>Ptosis is a mechanical problem with the eyelid-lifting apparatus, and it is distinct from loose eyelid skin. Levator aponeurosis advancement is the mainstay for acquired ptosis with good muscle function, while M\u00fcller&#8217;s muscle procedures suit selected mild cases and fascia slings are reserved for weak levator function.<\/p>\n<p>Published series report substantial eyelid height improvement with revision rates in the single digits to low teens, so results are generally reliable but not guaranteed, and minor adjustments are part of the landscape. In Tokyo, cost depends entirely on whether the case is treated as functional (insurance, subject to enrolment) or cosmetic (self-pay).<\/p>\n<p>If you have questions about ptosis correction surgery, English-speaking consultations are handled at BIOTOPE CLINIC in Shirokanedai (Minato-ku, Tokyo) by Dr. Karibe. Our sister clinic Kojimachi Dermatology &amp; Plastic Surgery Clinic in Ichigaya (Chiyoda-ku) handles Japanese-language insurance dermatology. English enquiries: LINE or WhatsApp.<\/p>\n<div class=\"kjmc-en-booking-box\" style=\"background: linear-gradient(135deg,#f1faf3 0%,#e6f3ea 100%); border-radius: 14px; padding: 32px 24px; margin: 36px 0 24px; border: 1px solid #c5dccd; text-align: center;\">\n<h3 style=\"margin: 0 0 8px; color: #3a6e3a; border: none; padding: 0; font-size: 1.3em;\">24\/7 Consultation &amp; Booking<\/h3>\n<div style=\"width: 48px; height: 2px; background: #3a6e3a; margin: 0 auto 22px;\"><\/div>\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 12px; color: #1a3a1f; font-size: 1.1em; font-weight: bold;\">Book a Consultation or Treatment<\/p>\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 24px; color: #2c4a35; line-height: 1.75;\">Our English-speaking team responds via LINE or WhatsApp \u2014 usually the same day.<\/p>\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 10px; line-height: 1;\"><a style=\"display: inline-flex; align-items: center; justify-content: center; gap: 10px; background: #06C755; color: #fff; padding: 14px 32px; border-radius: 10px; text-decoration: none; font-weight: bold; font-size: 1.02em; box-shadow: 0 2px 8px rgba(6,199,85,0.25); min-width: 240px; white-space: nowrap;\" href=\"https:\/\/line.me\/R\/ti\/p\/@710uitns?ts=05311801&amp;oat_content=url#~\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Book via LINE<\/a><\/p>\n<p style=\"margin: 0; line-height: 1;\"><a style=\"display: inline-flex; align-items: center; justify-content: center; gap: 10px; background: #25D366; color: #fff; padding: 14px 32px; border-radius: 10px; text-decoration: none; font-weight: bold; font-size: 1.02em; box-shadow: 0 2px 8px rgba(37,211,102,0.25); min-width: 240px; white-space: nowrap;\" href=\"https:\/\/whatsapp.com\/channel\/0029VbCA1v85K3zY4MLX2a1h\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Message on WhatsApp<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h2>References<\/h2>\n<ol>\n<li>Kitazawa T. Hard contact lens wear and the risk of acquired blepharoptosis: a case-control study. Eplasty. 2013;13:e30.<\/li>\n<li>Pan E, Chen WL, Zhang SC, Chen Y, Yu JG. Mild to moderate blepharoptosis correction: outcomes of levator aponeurosis posterior layer plication. Medicine (Baltimore). 2020;99(12):e19038.<\/li>\n<li>Arslan N, Bahar A, Acar M, Kosker M, Kabatas N, Gurdal C. The results of Muller muscle conjunctival resection versus levator advancement for mild to moderate ptosis. Romanian Journal of Ophthalmology. 2023;67(2):128\u2013133.<\/li>\n<li>Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (Japan). Medical Fee Schedule for Medical Care (Ika Shinryo Hoshu Tensuhyo), item K219 Blepharoptosis Surgery, FY2024 (Reiwa 6) revision.<\/li>\n<li>Santen Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. Announcement of the launch of Upneeq Mini Ophthalmic Solution 0.1% for acquired blepharoptosis. Company news release. 1 April 2026.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h2>Related Articles<\/h2>\n<p>You may also find these articles useful.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/kojihifu.com\/english\/under-eye-bags-surgery-tokyo\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Under Eye Bags Surgery Tokyo: Transconjunctival Blepharoplasty<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/kojihifu.com\/english\/under-eye-dark-circles-treatment-tokyo-2\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Under Eye Dark Circles Treatment Tokyo: Injections vs Surgery<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/kojihifu.com\/english\/english-speaking-plastic-surgeon-tokyo-3\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">English Speaking Plastic Surgeon Tokyo: Complete Guide<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/kojihifu.com\/english\/xerf-eye-forehead-tokyo-results\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Xerf for Eye Area and Forehead Tokyo: Results<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/kojihifu.com\/english\/under-eye-filler-tokyo-risks-benefits-3\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Under Eye Filler Tokyo: Risks, Benefits &amp; Costs<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div style=\"margin: 2.5em 0 1em; padding: 1.5em; border: 1px solid #d5d5d5; border-radius: 10px; background: #fafafa; font-size: .9em;\">\n<p style=\"font-size: .72em; font-weight: bold; color: #888; margin: 0 0 1.2em; letter-spacing: .08em;\">SUPERVISED BY<\/p>\n<div style=\"display: flex; align-items: flex-start; gap: 1.2em; flex-wrap: wrap;\">\n<div style=\"flex-shrink: 0; text-align: center; min-width: 110px;\"><img decoding=\"async\" style=\"width: 100px; height: 100px; border-radius: 50%; object-fit: cover; object-position: top center; display: block; margin: 0 auto; border: 3px solid #e0e0e0;\" src=\"https:\/\/kojihifu.com\/hon\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/photo-karibejun-400-3_re-300x300.jpg\" alt=\"Dr. Jun Karibe MD \u2014 Board-certified Plastic Surgeon, Director of Kojimachi Dermatology &amp; Plastic Surgery Clinic\" \/><\/p>\n<p style=\"margin: .6em 0 .1em; font-weight: bold; font-size: .95em; color: #222;\">Dr. Jun Karibe<\/p>\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 .1em; font-size: .75em; color: #999;\">MD<\/p>\n<p style=\"margin: 0; font-size: .75em; color: #555; font-weight: bold;\">Director<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"flex: 1; min-width: 200px;\">\n<div style=\"margin-bottom: .75em; background: #fff; border: 1px solid #ebebeb; border-radius: 6px; padding: .7em 1em;\">\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 .35em; font-size: .78em; font-weight: bold; color: #666; border-bottom: 1px solid #f2f2f2; padding-bottom: .3em;\">Education &amp; Career<\/p>\n<div style=\"font-size: .82em; color: #444; line-height: 1.75;\">\n<div>Juntendo University School of Medicine<\/div>\n<div>Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Tokyo Hospital<\/div>\n<div>Assistant Professor, Plastic &amp; Cosmetic Surgery, Saitama Medical University<\/div>\n<div>Assistant Professor &amp; Chief Resident, Yamanashi University Hospital<\/div>\n<div>2019: Founded Kojimachi Dermatology &amp; Plastic Surgery Clinic (Ichigaya, Tokyo)<\/div>\n<div>2021: Founded BIOTOPE CLINIC Shirokanedai (Minato-ku, Tokyo)<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"margin-bottom: .75em; background: #fff; border: 1px solid #ebebeb; border-radius: 6px; padding: .7em 1em;\">\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 .35em; font-size: .78em; font-weight: bold; color: #666; border-bottom: 1px solid #f2f2f2; padding-bottom: .3em;\">Certifications<\/p>\n<div style=\"font-size: .82em; color: #444; line-height: 1.75;\">\n<div>Board-certified Plastic Surgeon \u2014 Japan Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery<\/div>\n<div>Specialist \u2014 Japan Society of Anti-Aging Medicine<\/div>\n<div>Certified Industrial Physician \u2014 Japan Medical Association<\/div>\n<div>Allergan VST-certified Injector (Botox &amp; Hyaluronic Acid)<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"background: #fff; border: 1px solid #ebebeb; border-radius: 6px; padding: .7em 1em;\">\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 .35em; font-size: .78em; font-weight: bold; color: #666; border-bottom: 1px solid #f2f2f2; padding-bottom: .3em;\">Awards<\/p>\n<div style=\"font-size: .82em; color: #444; line-height: 1.75;\">\n<div>Best Presentation Award \u2014 Dept. of Plastic Surgery, University of Tokyo (2016)<\/div>\n<div>Excellence Award \u2014 Japan Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (2018)<\/div>\n<div>Featured Presentation \u2014 ASPS Annual Scientific Meeting, USA (2018)<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"margin-top: 1em; padding-top: .75em; border-top: 1px solid #e8e8e8; display: flex; flex-wrap: wrap; align-items: center; gap: .5em;\"><a style=\"display: inline-block; background: #e1306c; color: #fff; padding: .4em .9em; border-radius: 4px; text-decoration: none; font-size: .8em; font-weight: bold;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/dr.jun_\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Instagram<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Considering ptosis correction surgery in Tokyo? Compare droopy eyelid treatment options, recovery, and costs \u2014 message our English-speaking team today.","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":11125,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[21,22],"tags":[832,833,834,831,302,125,26],"class_list":["post-11126","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-skin-dermatology","category-plastic-surgery-tokyo","tag-droopy-eyelid","tag-levator-advancement","tag-oculoplastic-surgery","tag-ptosis","tag-eye-rejuvenation","tag-eyelid-surgery","tag-tokyo-clinic"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/kojihifu.com\/english\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/11126","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/kojihifu.com\/english\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/kojihifu.com\/english\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kojihifu.com\/english\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kojihifu.com\/english\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=11126"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/kojihifu.com\/english\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/11126\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":11745,"href":"https:\/\/kojihifu.com\/english\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/11126\/revisions\/11745"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kojihifu.com\/english\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/11125"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/kojihifu.com\/english\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=11126"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kojihifu.com\/english\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=11126"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kojihifu.com\/english\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=11126"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}