Retrograde weight implantation for correction of lagophthalmos

Gold weight implantation is the most commonly used method for surgical correction of paralytic lagophthalmos. Numerous techniques for placement of the weight have been described, yet complications with these methods continue to occur (implant migration or extrusion, wound infection, failure to correct the lagophthalmos, and excessive postoperative ptosis). We developed a retrograde, postlevator aponeurosis method for implantation to improve the placement and fixation of the weight. This study describes the rationale, technique, and surgical outcome of the retrograde approach.

Retrospective analysis.

Data maintained and collected on 25 consecutive cases of retrograde upper lid weight implantation for paralytic lagophthalmos. Pre- and postoperative photographs were obtained, and patients were followed for at least 6 months. All procedures were performed by or under the direction of a single surgeon at tertiary academic medical centers (University of California, San Diego and University of Zurich, Switzerland).

Twenty-five consecutive patients were evaluated, 16 male and 9 female, ranging in age from 27 to 86 years. There were no surgical failures or perioperative complications and no instances of implant migration or extrusion. One patient developed a delayed infection requiring removal of the implant, and one patient required replacement of the gold weight with a platinum chain implant to better fit the contour of her eyelid.

Retrograde implantation allows more accurate placement of the weight while creating a permanent circumferential seal for fixation. The procedure is minimally invasive, less traumatic than previous methods, and produces an excellent cosmetic result. The efficacy has been demonstrated in the outcome of the 25 cases described in this study.