In facial palsy, the muscle that closes the eyelids no longer works: the eye stays partially open (lagophthalmos), including at night. The exposed, poorly lubricated cornea is then at risk of keratitis and ulcer.
Protecting the cornea
From the outset: repeated artificial tears during the day, gel or ointment in the evening, night-time taping of the eyelid. Pain, redness or reduced vision require prompt consultation.
Surgery
For persistent lagophthalmos: placement of a platinum or gold weight in the upper eyelid to help it close, canthopexy or canthoplasty to tighten the lower eyelid, tarsorrhaphy in selected cases. Effective procedures, most often reversible.
Coordinated care
Treatment of the palsy itself belongs to the neurologist or ENT specialist; Dr Prud'homme handles the ocular and eyelid side, adapting to the chances of recovery.
Frequently asked questions
Does surgery prevent recovery from the palsy?
No: the proposed procedures protect the eye without compromising nerve recovery — the eyelid weight can be removed if closure returns to normal.
Book an appointment
Consultations in Boulogne-Billancourt (Ophtalife) and Saint-Maur-des-Fossés (Beaurepaire).