Lacrimal gland prolapse in craniosynostosis syndromes and poor function congenital ptosis

Lacrimal gland prolapse is an important, though uncommon, feature found in craniofacial abnormalities as well as in cases of poor function congenital ptosis. It occurs secondary to a number of conditions, including increased posterior pressure secondary to decreased orbital volume; also, supportive structures of the gland often may be weak in conjunction with a poor function ptosis or as a result of trauma at the time of major reconstruction. Recognition of the prolapsed gland and its replacement into the lacrimal gland fossa in craniosynostosis syndromes, as well as in cases of poor function congenital ptosis in general, allows the temporal eyelid to approach a more normal position, yielding an improved functional and cosmetic result.