Patient Info
About Lagophthalmos
Lagophthalmos is the medical term for a condition where a patient loses full function of one or both eyelids. It comes from Greek word lagos, which means hare – because hares sleep with their eyes open. Since humans are not hares, patients with Lagophthalmos need to be evaluated by a physician as the condition can lead to serious problems, including loss of vision.
Lagophthalmos is often the result of paralysis of the facial nerve (the seventh cranial nerve to be exact) which controls eyelid function. The paralysis can be permanent or transitory and can be the result of Bell’s palsy, trauma or stroke. It can also result, indirectly, from the surgical removal of certain types of tumors in close proximity to the facial nerve.
The ability to close the eyelid and blink is crucial to the distribution of the surface film necessary to maintain lubrication of the eye and proper eye health. When the blink mechanism doesn’t function, the eye becomes dry, painful and irritated. Prolonged dehydration can lead to problems including loss of vision.
Your doctor, either your primary care physician or an ophthalmologist, will need to evaluate your symptoms to confirm a diagnosis of lagophthalmos. The evaluation includes a thorough history of recent injuries, traumas, surgeries involving the head, face and eyelids as well as infections such as herpes zoster. The physician will also test your eyelids and globe as well as the cornea.
If you are diagnosed with lagophthalmos, your doctor will likely prescribe eye drops or gels to keep your cornea moistened. He may also fit you for Blinkeze® External Lid Weights.
How to Find a Doctor:
If you are not referred to a particular specialist by your primary physician you can find an ophthalmologist by geographic location and sub-specialty searching on the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) website. The appropriate subspecialty for treating facial nerve palsy disorders is typically the sub-specialty of ‘oculofacial plastics/Reconstructive.
To determine whether an Ophthalmologist is an Oculoplastic surgeon who has undertaken additional training, residency and completion of rigorous oral and written examinations in disorders of the eyelids, eye socket and tear drainage system you can search by geographic location on the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive (ASOPRS) website.
Other Helpful Resources and Links
Informational links:
Eyelid Disorders | Medline Plus
Medical Specialty Links:
How to find an ophthalmologist
Why choose an ASOPRS surgeon?
How to Order
If your doctor determines that an external eyelid weight is an appropriate treatment for you, you will receive a prescription for a Blinkeze External Lid Weight specifying the weight and skin tone color. You can then contact our customer service staff to place your order. The treatment kit will also include 100 hypoallergenic adhesive strips (approximate 3-month supply) and an application mirror.
Read the patient instructions for use (IFU) insert carefully before beginning your treatment. Your Blinkeze weight will help close your affected eyelid when your levator (blink reflex) muscle relaxes. The adhesive strips should be replaced on a daily basis. However, many patients find that if they are using Blinkeze in conjunction with a prescribed ointment or eyedrop, they may have to replace the adhesive strips more frequently. Environmental conditions, such as humidity or oily skin may also require the external weights be reapplied more than once a day.
Contact your doctor should your eyelid not close while wearing your Blinkeze External Lid Weight or you are unable to open your eyelid. Your doctor may need to prescribe a heavier or lighter weight.