EXPERIENCE WITH IMPLANTATION OF GOLD WEIG HTS IN THE UPPER EYELID IN PATIENTS WITH FACIAL PALSY

Background: A lagophthalmus following facial nerve palsy is not only a cosmetic problem, but can also cause serious complications to the cor nea, such as ulceration and perforation. A passive eyelid closure can be achieved by the implantation of a gold weight in the upper eyelid. Methods: Within five years we performed 21 implantations of gold weigh ts in patients with facial nerve palsy. Results: In 19 patients (90%) good eyelid closure was achieved. In three patients the gold weight wa s removed for the following reasons: remission of paralysis, foreign b ody sensation, and wound infection. Conclusions: The insertion of an e yelid goldweight in the upper eyelid in patients with established faci al palsy is an effective method of reducing the incidence of discomfor t to the eye and corneal complications. The insertion is simple and pe rformed under local anaesthesia, and is easily reversed or revised if necessary.