title: Predictive images of postoperative levator resection outcome using image processing software.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of processed images to predict postoperative appearance following levator resection.
  
  
  METHODS
  Analysis involved 109 eyes from 65 patients with blepharoptosis who underwent advancement of levator aponeurosis and Müller's muscle complex (levator resection). Predictive images were prepared from preoperative photographs using the image processing software (Adobe Photoshop®). Images of selected eyes were digitally enlarged in an appropriate manner and shown to patients prior to surgery.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Approximately 1 month postoperatively, we surveyed our patients using questionnaires. Fifty-six patients (89.2%) were satisfied with their postoperative appearances, and 55 patients (84.8%) positively responded to the usefulness of processed images to predict postoperative appearance.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Showing processed images that predict postoperative appearance to patients prior to blepharoptosis surgery can be useful for those patients concerned with their postoperative appearance. This approach may serve as a useful tool to simulate blepharoptosis surgery.
authors.affiliation: Igo Ophthalmic Clinic, Kagoshima.
authors.forename: Yuki
authors.initials: Y
authors.lastname: Mawatari
authors.affiliation: Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Life Science, Kumamoto University, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto, Japan.
authors.forename: Mikiko
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Fukushima
keywords: Adobe Photoshop®; blepharoptosis; image processing; levator resection