SURGICAL REPAIR OF PARALYTIC LAGOPHTHALMOS BY MEDIAL TARSAL SUSPENSION OF THE LOWER LID

Background - The seventh nerve palsy causes loss of function in the af fected orbicularis oculi muscle. There is exposure and dessication of the corneal surface and obvious aesthetic changes in facial symmetry. Method - A surgical procedure has beers used in II patients to substan tially improve palpebral closure. The technique consists of a small up per lid tarsoconjunctival flap sutured into a nasal pretarsal pocket: of the lower Lid, achieving a medial tarsal suspension of the lower li d. Results - This technique improves cosmesis, is reversible, and comb inable with other procedures, The signs and symptoms of exposure kerat itis are satisfactorily resolved. There have been no complications in an average follow up of 5 1/2 years after this surgical procedure. Con clusion - This technique could be considered an appropriate treatment for patients suffering temporary or permanent facial palsy.