LID LOADING FOR LAGOPHTHALMOS - 6 YEARS E XPERIENCE

Background: The procedures for prophylaxis and treatment of keratopath y following facial palsy with lagophthalmos are unsatisfying from the functional point of view. Patients and methods: Three years ago we cre ated a ''lid-dynamic'' procedure and applied it to 46 patients with Be ll's palsy or before implantation of a gold lid weight. Fixation of le ad weights of 0.8-2.0 g to the upper lid by a foil adhesive on both si des (Tesafix), can lead to restoration of lid closures. With in 6 year s we implanted 24-caratgold 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 2 7% of the operative cases we observed a slight underdosage in 10% a sl ight overdosage. Conclusion: Lid loading is a simple and effective met hod for functional and cosmetical rehabilitation of patients with lago phthalmos. Despite the dependence upon gravity, the procedure can be r ecommended for all cases of facial palsy.