The aponeurotic approach to congenital ptosis.

Using a surgical technique directed at the levator aponeurosis, we successfully corrected 228 cases of congenital ptosis. The advantages of this approach are: normal anatomic planes and structures of the eyelid are maintained; basic and reflex tear secretion, goblet cells, or meibomian glands remain undisturbed, allowing maintenance of the three-layered tear film; any aponeurotic defects may be explored and repaired relatively easily; all elevating structures are preserved (aponeurosis rather than muscular levator is removed, Mueller's muscle is left intact, Whitnall's ligament is not violated); posterior sutures, which may irritate the cornea, are avoided; no tarsus or conjunctiva are removed.