BACKGROUND: The procedures for prophylaxis and treatment of keratopathy following facial palsy with lagophthalmos are unsatisfying from the functional point of view. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Three years ago we created a "lid-dynamic" procedure and applied it to 46 patients with Bell's palsy or before implantation of a gold lid weight. Fixation of lead weights of 0.8-2.0 g to the upper lid by a foil adhesive on both sides (Tesafix), can lead to restoration of lid closure. Within 6 years we implanted 24-carat gold weights into the upper lid in 72 patients. RESULTS: In all cases lid function was markedly improved; all patients appreciated the procedure. The lead weights were well tolerated. In 27% of the operative cases we observed a slight underdosage, in 10% a slight overdosage. CONCLUSION: Lid loading is a simple and effective method for functional and cosmetical rehabilitation of patients with lagophthalmos. Despite the dependence upon gravity, the procedure can be recommended for all cases of facial palsy.
BACKGROUND: The procedures for prophylaxis and treatment of keratopathy following facial palsy with lagophthalmos are unsatisfying from the functional point of view. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Three years ago we created a "lid-dynamic" procedure and applied it to 46 patients with Bell's palsy or before implantation of a gold lid weight. Fixation of lead weights of 0.8-2.0 g to the upper lid by a foil adhesive on both sides (Tesafix), can lead to restoration of lid closure. Within 6 years we implanted 24-carat gold weights into the upper lid in 72 patients. RESULTS: In all cases lid function was markedly improved; all patients appreciated the procedure. The lead weights were well tolerated. In 27% of the operative cases we observed a slight underdosage, in 10% a slight overdosage. CONCLUSION: Lid loading is a simple and effective method for functional and cosmetical rehabilitation of patients with lagophthalmos. Despite the dependence upon gravity, the procedure can be recommended for all cases of facial palsy.