Treatment for ophthalmic paralysis: functional and aesthetic optimization

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Plastic Surgery
• Facial Nerve Surgery

Background:

• Facial nerve palsy significantly affects patient function and psychological well-being.
• Inability to close the eye (lagophthalmos) is a common and debilitating complication.
• Restoring eye closure is a primary surgical goal in managing facial palsy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce straightforward surgical methods for restoring eye closure in patients with facial nerve palsy.
• To address both functional and aesthetic concerns associated with eyelid asymmetry.

Main Methods:

• Surgical techniques focus on both upper and lower eyelids to achieve eye closure.
• Upper eyelid surgery leverages gravity-assisted closure, generally yielding simpler procedures and better outcomes.
• Lower eyelid correction addresses ectropion, often requiring tarsal strip procedures and extensive supporting techniques, including cheek tissue involvement, to counteract gravity and ensure sustained closure.

Main Results:

• The presented methods are relatively easy to learn and implement.
• Restoration of upper eyelid function is less complex due to gravity's assistance.
• Lower eyelid ectropion correction is more challenging but achievable with comprehensive techniques for sustained results and improved cosmesis.

Conclusions:

• Simple surgical interventions can effectively restore eye closure in facial nerve palsy.
• Addressing both upper and lower eyelid deficits is crucial for functional and aesthetic recovery.
• Thorough ophthalmic evaluation is essential to guide surgical planning, especially for lower eyelid ectropion management.