Upper lid loading with gold weights in paralytic lagophthalmos: a modified technique to maximize the long-term functional and cosmetic success.
OBJECTIVE
To describe a modified fixation technique to improve the long-term functional and cosmetic success of upper lid loading with gold weights.


METHODS
A retrospective single surgeon study of combined upper pre-tarsal and direct levator fixation of the gold weight. The minimum follow-up period was 12 months.


RESULTS
Gold weights were implanted with the modified technique into 29 patients. The gold weight was removed in two cases due to infection and in one case due to ptosis. There was no loss of function over the follow-up period and the cosmetic outcome was good or very good in all cases. The follow-up ranged from 12 to 84 months with a mean of 40 months.


CONCLUSIONS
Combined upper pre-tarsal fixation and direct levator fixation is effective in maximizing both the long-term functional and cosmetic success of upper lid loading with gold weights in paralytic lagophthalmos.
Caesar
R H
RH
Orbital, Plastic and Lacrimal Clinic, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, Melbourne, Australia.
Friebel
J
J
McNab
A A
AA
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D015352:Dry Eye Syndromes / Q000517:prevention & control*; D004954:Esthetics; D005141:Eyelid Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000601:surgery*; D005143:Eyelids / Q000294:innervation*; D005158:Facial Paralysis / Q000150:complications* / Q000175:diagnosis; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006046:Gold; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D019736:Prostheses and Implants; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D006046:Gold