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The presence of eyebrow elevation in anophthalmic patients has been used as evidence to support a proprioceptive stimulus for frontalis innervation. In this study, we examined the frequency of brow elevation before and after enucleation and reviewed additional clinical findings to determine if any were associated with eyebrow position.A retrospective study was performed on 134 anophthalmic patients. Demographics, measurements, and photographs were reviewed. Reference photographs were used to subjectively grade brow position and sulcus depth.Preoperative eyebrow elevation was present in 56.2% of patients without blepharospasm from a painful eye, of who 62% had chronic visual loss. Ipsilateral ptosis (p = 0.008), deep superior sulcus (plt; 0.001), and right-sided pathology (p = 0.045) were more common in patients with brow elevation. Symmetrically elevated brows were more frequent before right than left enucleation (p = 0.05). Brow position remained stable after 61.9% of procedures. While often mild, postoperative brow elevation was seen in 31.0% of patients without preoperative elevation. Deepening of the superior sulcus was more common in patients with new relative brow elevation (p = 0.031). Anophthalmic ptosis and right-left surgical side were not associated with new postoperative brow elevation.Eyebrow elevation was often present prior to enucleation and associated with an increased occurrence of ptosis, superior sulcus deepening, and right-sided pathology. Intact vision was not needed to maintain an elevated brow. Superior sulcus deepening, but not ptosis, was more common in patients developing new postoperative brow elevation. The findings support both proprioceptive and compensatory mechanisms for eyebrow elevation.

To review the management of the ptosis associated with oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophy (OPMD) from one author's experience over 34 years, demonstrate Mueller's muscle involvement in this disease, and how this impacts the preferred choice of surgery.Retrospective, nonrandomized comparative case series. Forty patients with OPMD who underwent primary bilateral ptosis surgery through an anterior eyelid incision and had their Mueller's muscle biopsied (one side) and sent for histopathologic analysis were selected for chart review. The main outcome measure was the presence or absence of dystrophic changes in the biopsied Mueller's muscle.In 29/40 biopsies (72.5%), there were dystrophic changes and fatty infiltration of Mueller's muscle identified histopathologically.Mueller's muscle is involved in the dystrophic process more often than expected contributing to ptosis in the OPMD syndrome. A combined Mueller's-aponeurotic advancement is more effective at elevating the eyelid than simply advancing the aponeurosis when Mueller's is fatty infiltrated at the time of external levator advancement surgery in our experience. Management strategies for ptosis surgery in OPMD are reviewed. The age of onset, levator muscle function, previous ptosis repair, how debilitated the patient is with their disease process systemically, as well as the presence of other eye problems (e.g., dry eye, prior glaucoma filtering procedures, history of corneal surgery, laser refractive procedure) are important clinical considerations in patients with OPMD.

A newborn male with cat eye syndrome presented with progressively worsening bilateral upper eyelid imbrication, floppy eyelids, and ptosis. Despite conservative management, he remained unable to open his eyelids. Surgical correction was planned to prevent bilateral sensory deprivation amblyopia and was delayed until 5 months of age due to systemic health concerns. Bilateral full-thickness wedge excision and frontalis suspension with silicone rods in a double rhomboid fashion was performed. Postoperatively, the patient demonstrated spontaneous eyelid opening, resolution of spastic eversion of the upper eyelids, and adequate eyelid closure. The authors present the first case of concurrent floppy eyelid syndrome and upper eyelid imbrication reported in a cat eye syndrome patient.

PURPOSE To compare outcomes of Mueller's Muscle Conjunctival Resection (MMCR) between 2 groups of patients with different anatomy due to ethnic heritage. METHODS The medical records of patients who underwent MMCR between 2013 and 2018 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients who underwent additional procedures, such as upper blepharoplasty and browplasty, were excluded from the study. Patients were divided in 2 groups based on self-identified ethnic groups (Asian and Caucasian). Image J software was used to calculate MRD1 from digital images. The improvement of MRD1 (net MRD1) after surgery was evaluated and compared between 2 groups. RESULTS Eighty-three eyes of 68 patients were included in this study. The Asian group consisted of 41 eyelids from 28 patients. The Caucasian group consisted of 42 eyelids from 40 patients. The average age was 52.18 (SD 20.176) in the Asian group compared with the 66.45 years (SD 9.22, p< 0.005) in the Caucasian group. The mean improvement of MRD1 was 1.96 ± 0.75 mm in Asian group and 2.05 ± 0.72 mm in Caucasian group, which was not statistically significant (p = 0.62). The incidence of ptosis overcorrection and undercorrection between the groups was also not statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS There was no statistically significant difference in the surgical outcomes among the 2 study groups. Despite differences in the anatomy of Caucasian and Asian eyelids, MMCR is a successful procedure in patients self-identified from both ethnic groups.

Purpose To describe the frequency of blepharoptosis and factors affecting it after the pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) procedure. Methods In a prospective study, patients were recruited consecutively from October 2016 to June 2018. Upper eyelid margin reflex distance 1 and 2 (MRD1 and 2), upper eyelid crease height, and levator function were measured before, 1 and at least 6 months after surgery by the same investigator. Clinical and Clinically significant ptosis were defined as ≥0.5 and ≥2 mm drop of MRD1. Result There were 60 eyes from 57 patients. The majority of surgeries were performed by the fellows (63.3%, 38/60) and under general anesthesia (95.0%, 57/60). Clinical and clinically significant ptosis following PPV were 47.2% (25/53) and 11.3% (6/53) at the last follow up (at least 6 months), respectively. MRD2 (p = 0.389) and eyelid crease height (p = 0.057) did not significantly change. Surgeons' level, time of the procedure and other variables were not significantly impacting the frequencies. Conclusion Persistent clinically significant ptosis was observed in 11% of patients undergoing PPV. No variable was significantly associated with persistent postoperative ptosis after PPV.

PURPOSE To determine the efficacy of a frontalis muscle flap eyelid reanimation technique for correction of severe congenital ptosis and associated amblyopia in infants. METHODS The authors performed a retrospective chart review of patients 12 months of age or younger with unilateral or bilateral congenital ptosis and associated amblyopia or deemed at high risk for amblyopia due to visual deprivation. Following ptosis repair via a frontalis muscle flap technique, primary outcomes of postoperative eyelid position and amblyopia reversal were assessed. RESULTS Seventeen eyes of 12 participants were included for study. Seven of these patients had simple congenital ptosis, and the remainder had ptosis as part of a syndrome. Nine were diagnosed with amblyopia preoperatively, and the remaining 3 were too young for acuity testing but had occlusion of the visual axis by the ptotic eyelid in primary gaze. Postoperatively, the mean margin-to-reflex distance 1 was 2.4 mm (range: 0.0-4.0), and 9 patients (75%) demonstrated no evidence of amblyopia. Only 2 patients had eyelid asymmetry greater than 2 mm, which in both cases was due to lack of frontalis activation by the patient secondary to ongoing visual impairment. The most common complication was lagophthalmos in 6 eyes (35.3%), with no significant associated surface keratopathy. CONCLUSIONS The frontalis muscle flap technique may offer a new and effective approach to treating infants with severe congenital ptosis causing poor eyelid excursion and associated amblyopia while avoiding use of an implant.

PURPOSE To investigate the associations between systemic medical conditions and types of ocular surgery and the development of aponeurotic ptosis. METHODS In this case-control observational cohort study, the relative prevalence of involutional ptosis in a large population of adult patients was assessed. Deidentified patient data from a 10-year time period was obtained from the electronic medical records of 5 large academic medical centers. Patients were selected based on ICD9 and ICD10 codes for involutional ptosis. Control patients were age and gender matched and randomly selected from a general adult population. Systemic comorbidities were determined based on ICD9 and ICD10 codes, and prior ocular surgeries based on CPT codes. The influence of systemic comorbidities and ocular surgery was examined utilizing logistic regression analysis. RESULTS The study cohort consisted of 8297 adult patients with involutional blepharoptosis and 13,128 matched controls. The average age was 65 years. The 3 significant risk factors for developing ptosis were ocular surgery, hyperthyroidism, and type II diabetes with odds ratios of 4.2, 2.5, and 1.45, respectively (p < 0.05). Strabismus, cornea, and glaucoma surgeries were more highly associated with developing ptosis (p < 0.05). Strabismus surgery had the greatest odds ratio of 3.37, followed by cornea surgery at 2.31, and glaucoma surgery at 1.56. CONCLUSIONS Involutional ptosis is likely a multifactorial process. This study demonstrates that risk factors for the development of ptosis include ocular surgery, specifically strabismus, cornea, and glaucoma surgery, as well as hyperthyroidism and type II diabetes.

PURPOSE To report the effect of frontalis linkage without intraoperative eyelid elevation for the management of myopathic ptosis. METHODS Retrospective analysis of 21 (42 eyelids) myopathic patients with bilateral ptosis who were operated between 1999 and 2017. All patients had orbicularis weakness and poor or absent Bell's phenomenon. Surgery consisted of using an autogenous fascia sling to link the tarsal plate to the frontalis muscle without any degree of intraoperative eyelid elevation. The main outcome measures were margin reflex distance, brow height and degree of brow excursion and degree of lagophthalmos, and exposure keratitis. RESULTS After surgery, there were significant changes (p

Purpose Marin-Amat syndrome is an acquired facial synkinesis manifesting as involuntary eyelid closure on jaw movement. The authors investigate the clinical features, especially the quantitative changes in eyelid parameters of patients with Marin-Amat syndrome. Methods Patients with Marin-Amat syndrome between 2015 and 2017 in a medical center were collected. Clinical features and the change of eyelid parameters, including margin reflex distance 1 (MRD-1), margin reflex distance 2 (MRD-2), and palpebral fissure height, were evaluated. Results There were 5 men and 3 women with a mean age of 76 years. All had a history of facial palsy. The mean time to onset of Marin-Amat syndrome was 4.4 years after facial palsy. Seven patients (87.5%) developed subsequent ipsilateral facial spasm after facial palsy. Most patient complaints were ptosis (62.5%) and ptosis on eating (37.5%). The mean palpebral fissure height of involved eyes decreased from 5.88 to 2 mm on jaw opening (p = 0.011), which resulted from decrease in MRD-1 (from 2.06 to 0.06 mm, p = 0.012) and MRD-2 (from 3.81 to 1.94 mm; p = 0.012). Botulinum toxin A (Botox) injection into the periorbital orbicularis muscle in 6 patients significantly relieved the change of palpebral fissure height on jaw opening compared with that before injection (9.9% vs. 68.6 %, p = 0.027). Conclusions Most patients with Marin-Amat syndrome present with ptosis and might be overlooked or underestimated. The reduction in palpebral fissure height in our patients with Marin-Amat syndrome was due to involuntary orbicularis oculi muscle contraction, resulting in decrease of both the MRD-1 and MRD-2 on jaw opening.

Purpose To evaluate light microscopy and transmission electron microscopy findings of levator muscle/aponeurosis materials and their correlation with clinical findings in isolated congenital myogenic and aponeurotic blepharoptosis. Methods Demographic and clinical data were obtained from patients. Qualitative and quantitative evaluations for muscle fiber morphology were performed using light microscopy and transmission electron microscopy on tissue samples which were obtained from the most proximal part of the aponeurosis excised during levator muscle/aponeurosis resection surgery. Results Seventeen (55%) of the cases were isolated congenital myogenic ptosis, and 14 (45%) were aponeurotic ptosis. Muscle bundle splitting, cytoplasmic loss, and centrally located nuclei were observed in both groups. Muscle tissue covered 25% of the sample in 67% of the cases, 50% in 11%, 75% in 11%, and 100% in 11% in the myogenic group. In the aponeurotic group, muscle tissue covered 25% of the sample in 44.5% of the cases, 50% in 11%, and 100% in 44.5% (χ, p = 0.52). Myofibrillar loss areas accompanied by Z-line disorganization which were occupied by degenerated organelles were present in both groups under transmission electron microscopy, and findings were not significantly different between groups (χ, p > 0.05). Mean mitochondrial diameter was significantly larger in aponeurotic ptosis (Mann-Whitney U, p = 0.047). No correlation was found between functional and microscopic parameters. Conclusion Decreased amount of striated muscle and the presence of fiber damage indicators were observed in both groups. Muscle fiber loss in myogenic ptosis may be a feature of muscle dysgenesis. Ultrastructural damage in aponeurotic ptosis may be explained with increased oxidative stress or long-term contractile stress. Further genetic and immunohistochemical studies will be helpful to further understand the pathogenesis of diseases.

PURPOSE To describe the effect of spaceflight on upper eyelid and brow position. MATERIALS AND METHODS Images of astronauts on earth and in space were collected from a National Aeronautics and Space Administration image library. For each astronaut, front facing portraits captured within a 5-year period were obtained. At least 6 photos were collected per astronaut, 3 taken on earth, and 3 in zero gravity. Measurements from the center of the pupil to the upper eyelid margin (MRD1) and center of the pupil to the inferior eyebrow margin [pupil-to-brow (PTB)] were performed digitally for each image and averaged for each condition and each individual. Differences in mean MRD1 and PTB were assessed to illustrate the effects of zero gravity on eyelid and eyebrow position respectively. Linear-mixed effects modeling, analysis of variance and post hoc power analysis were performed. RESULTS One hundred and twelve photographs (55 earth, 57 space) from 18 astronauts (4 women, 14 men; mean age 45.9 years) were retrieved. Zero gravity resulted in a mean PTB increase of 3.7 mm (p < 0.01) but did not result in significant change in MRD1 (p = 0.21). Post hoc power analysis of the measured MRD1 difference was performed by simulation. At an MRD1 difference of 0.5 mm, the probability of a type II error is 2.6%, equivalent to a beta power of 97.4%. Thus, we can be 97.4% confident that a difference in MRD of 0.5 mm or greater would be detected. CONCLUSIONS While spaceflight led to significant elevation of PTB, it did not consistently alter MRD1. As such, the brow and eyelid appear to be independently regulated with respect to gravitational changes.

To describe a novel observation of ipsilateral eyelid myokymia in the context of Marcus Gunn jaw-winking synkinesis (MGJWS).A retrospective case series of 5 patients observed to have myokymia in the context of MGJWS in 2 tertiary hospitals in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia was conducted. Demographic profile including age and gender, and clinical features were analyzed.Five patients (3 males and 2 females) with MGJWS were noted to demonstrate the phenomenon of ipsilateral eyelid myokymia. All but 1 had right-sided MGJWS. The myokymia was seen as upper eyelid twitching in a vertical fashion along the levator palpebrae superioris muscle field of action. All subjects also had ipsilateral Monocular elevation deficiency.Ipsilateral upper eyelid myokymia is a potential feature of MGJWS. Monocular elevation seems to be a constant feature among MGJWS patients with levator muscle myokymia.Marcus Gunn jaw-winking synkinesis (MGJWS) is not well understood. Ipsilateral eyelid myokymia is a potential feature of MGJWS. This finding suggests that peripheral dysinnervation is likely to be a part of MGJWS.Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text.Marcus Gunn jaw-winking synkinesis (MGJWS) is not well understood. Ipsilateral eyelid myokymia is a potential feature of MGJWS. This finding suggests that peripheral dysinnervation is likely to be a part of MGJWS. Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text.

Purpose To evaluate the ability of preoperative phenylephrine testing to predict postoperative upper eyelid tarsal platform show in patients undergoing Muller muscle-conjunctival resection (MMCR) ptosis repair without concurrent blepharoplasty. Methods A retrospective chart review was performed on 52 eyelids of patients who underwent MMCR without external skin incision. Photographs were reviewed to objectively and subjectively compare the results of phenylephrine testing to postoperative appearance. Only patients who underwent successful MMCR were included in the study. The authors defined successful MMCR as having a resulting marginal reflex distance within 1 mm of that predicted by phenylephrine testing. For objective analysis, the tarsal platform show was measured using computer software. For subjective analysis, 2 experienced examiners were asked to grade the correlation in appearance on a scale of 1-5 (1 being poor correlation and 5 being excellent correlation). Results The mean tarsal platform show in the phenylephrine test photographs and the postoperative photographs was 3.8 and 3.63 mm, respectively (mean = 0.17; standard deviation = 0.71). The difference between the means was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). The mean difference in tarsal platform show between phenylephrine testing and postoperative was 0.17 mm (standard deviation = 0.71). The difference was not statistically significant (t[51] = 0.09; p > 0.05; 2 tailed). The mean subjective correlation score comparing phenylephrine testing photographs to postoperative photographs was 4.4 out of possible 5. Conclusions Phenylephrine testing exhibits good predictability with regard to eyelid appearance after successful MMCR without external skin incision and, therefore, may assist the surgeon when trying to decide if blepharoplasty or eyelid crease formation is necessary at the time of MMCR.

Purpose Timing of surgery in children with congenital ptosis is a critical component of care, and anisometropia is frequently cited as an indication for early intervention. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the change in refractive error following surgery for congenital ptosis to better inform decisions regarding the timing of surgery. Methods A retrospective review of clinical records was performed on patients who underwent surgical correction of congenital ptosis in an academic oculoplastic surgery practice from 2002 to 2017. Patients with complete preoperative and postoperative refractive data were included in the study. Changes in refractive error following surgery were analyzed. Results Among 184 pediatric patients who underwent ptosis surgery during the study period, 56 patients (71 eyes) met inclusion criteria. The mean age at surgery was 5.1 years. Mean refractive error change in all the operated eyes was a 0.82 D decrease in spherical equivalent (p = 0.1920) and a 0.40 D increase in cylinder (p = 0.0255). There were no statistically significant changes in spherical equivalent or cylinder in the control eyes. Conclusions The authors data did not show movement toward normalization of refractive error following ptosis surgery. In fact, it showed a statistically significant worsening of astigmatism following surgery. Because refractive error does not improve following surgery, anisometropia should not be the sole indication for early surgery in congenital ptosis.

Purpose To evaluate corneal refractive and topographical changes after Muller's muscle conjunctival resection surgery on patients with mild ptosis. Methods A total of 28 eyes of 28 patients with mild ptosis underwent Muller's muscle conjunctival resection. Visual acuity, margin reflex distance, and cycloplegic refraction were analyzed preoperatively and at first, third, and sixth months postoperatively. Change in corneal topography was analyzed with Sirius System using parameters including corneal astigmatism (CYL), average simulated keratometry value (simK), apical keratometry front (AKf), symmetry index front (SIf), and central corneal thickness (CCT) at the same intervals. Results Best-corrected visual acuity and cycloplegic refraction did not change significantly at all controls postoperatively. The mean change in corneal astigmatism, simK, SIf, and CCT did not show significant differences. Apical keratometry front showed a significant decrease at 3 and 6 months. Conclusion The pressure of upper eyelid in patients with ptosis appeared to have resulted in steepening of the superior cornea along this axis. The surgical correction of ptosis induces flattening of superior cornea as shown by significant decrease in apical keratometry front value postoperatively and restores corneal topography to a more regular state.

Purpose The purpose of this study is to explore mechanical and co-innervational factors involved in both voluntary and involuntary brow elevation among people affected by ptosis and dermatochalasis. Methods In this prospective cohort study of normal controls and eyelids with ptosis or dermatochalasis, marginal reflex distance (MRD1) and brow height were measured under the following conditions: neutral position, involuntary mechanical brow elevation, voluntary brow elevation, and maximal eyelid opening. The primary outcome measure was change in MRD1. Secondary outcome measures included brow height and coupling (mm brow height change per mm MRD1 change). Analysis of variance and t tests were performed for intra- and intercondition comparisons, respectively. Results Mechanical (involuntary) brow elevation significantly raised MRD1 in control eyelids and eyelids with dermatochalasis, but not in eyelids with ptosis. Voluntary brow elevation produced significantly greater brow height than maximal eyelid opening in controls and eyelids with dermatochalasis, but not in eyelids with ptosis. Maximal eyelid opening increased MRD1 greater than voluntary brow elevation significantly in control eyelids, but not in eyelids with dermatochalasis or ptosis. Coupling of the brow and eyelid margin during maximal eyelid opening was significantly greater in eyelids with ptosis relative to controls. Conclusions In eyelids with ptosis, mechanical brow elevation does not change eyelid position; however, voluntary brow elevation raises eyelid position to a similar position as maximal eyelid opening. These results argue against the contention that the brow is elevated to mechanically lift the eyelid in ptosis and instead suggest that the brow elevation is driven by efforts to raise the eyelid, possibly via co-innervation.

Purpose To determine if early postoperative swelling has an effect on change in the upper eyelid position after external levator resection (ELR) or blepharoplasty. Methods In this observational cohort study, patients >18 years old who underwent ELR or upper blepharoplasty were identified. Digital photographs in primary position were obtained at the preoperative, early postoperative week one, and late postoperative month 3 visits. Marginal reflex distance 1 (MRD1) was measured digitally. Swelling was graded on a previously validated scale from 0 to 3. Photographs were evaluated by 26 experts/professional image graders. Primary outcome measure was changed in MRD1 from preoperative to late postoperative visits. Secondary outcome measure was change in MRD1 from early to late postoperative visits. The effect of early postoperative swelling on each outcome was assessed using linear regression models. Results The sample contained 54 patients (25 ELR and 29 blepharoplasty). The model regressing change in MRD1 from preoperative to late postoperative visits with early postoperative swelling as the predictor was significant for ELR (R = 0.165, p = 0.044) but not blepharoplasty (R = 0.016, p = 0.515). However, the model controlling for preoperative MRD1 was not significant for ELR (B = 0.423, p = 0.354). The model regressing change in MRD1 from early to late postoperative follow up utilizing early postoperative swelling as the sole predictor was not significant for ELR (R = 0.010, p = 0.627) but was significant for blepharoplasty (R = 0.207, p = 0.013), with increased swelling associated with greater change in MRD1. Conclusions Early postoperative swelling does not affect the final MRD1 outcome of ELR or upper blepharoplasty; however, blepharoplasty patients with early postoperative swelling may experience greater increase in MRD1 over follow up.

PURPOSE To compare 2 surgical techniques (frontalis flap versus maximal anterior levator resection) as first surgical options for the treatment of congenital ptosis with poor levator function in patients younger than 2 years of age with a follow up of 10 years. METHODS A retrospective study of 58 patients (71 eyelids) with severe ptosis and poor levator function who underwent frontalis muscle flap (FMF = 47) or maximal anterior levator resection (ALR = 24) for correction of their ptosis. Eyelid measurements were taken at baseline, 1, 5, and 10 years after surgery. The presence of complications, need for reoperations, and palpebral contour were evaluated. RESULTS Most patients in both groups required only one surgical procedure with a stable average margin-reflex distance 1 over the 10-year follow-up period in both groups, with no statistically significant difference between the 2 techniques in achieving an adequate palpebral height after one single procedure. Eleven eyelids treated with FMF (23%) and 12 treated with ALR (50%) needed a reoperation, with a statistically significant difference between the 2 techniques. Five ALR patients (21%) and 6 FMF patients (13%) had alterations of eyelid contour. Pop-eyelid and eyelash ptosis were observed in 8% of patients operated with FMF. CONCLUSION Good functional and aesthetic results were obtained with both surgical techniques. FMF required fewer reoperations compared with maximal ALR, offering a better long-term result without residual ptosis.

Purpose Undercorrected blepharoptosis can be encountered after frontalis sling operation. Revision surgery for undercorrection has commonly involved introducing a new sling material. We describe and evaluate a simple surgical technique to correct undercorrection by adjusting preexisting fascia. Methods This is a retrospective interventional case series of patients undergoing sling revision between February 2010 and February 2017. Skin incision was made on the previous incision line. Careful dissection was performed superiorly to identify a preexisting fascia, and the dissected fascia was reattached to the tarsal plate using nonabsorbable sutures with adjustments for eyelid height and contour. The success of the procedure was defined as less than 1 mm of difference in the marginal reflex distance 1 of both eyes without any contour deformity. Results Twenty-one eyelids in 18 patients were included with a mean follow-up of 17.5 months (range 6-48) and a mean age of 14.7 years (range 5-57). All patients had undergone frontalis sling with autogenous fascia lata for congenital ptosis. Undercorrection due to recurrent ptosis was found in 12 eyelids, and contour deformity such as temporal ptosis was found in 9 eyelids. The mean time interval between previous frontalis sling operation and sling revision was 6.8 years. Nineteen patients (90.5%) achieved surgical success and a cosmetically acceptable appearance. Conclusion Sling revision is a simple and effective method with low perioperative morbidity for cases of undercorrection or contour deformity following frontalis sling operation using autogenous fascia lata, even long after the primary procedure.

The purpose of this study was to determine whether advancement of the levator aponeurosis in external levator resection surgery or Mueller's muscle and conjunctiva in Mueller's muscle conjunctival resection (MMCR) surgery has a differential effect on variation in eyelid position during the postoperative period.In this retrospective observational cohort study, 2 groups of patients were defined. The first underwent MMCR surgery without tarsectomy by surgeon 1. The second underwent external levator resection without dissection posterior to the levator aponeurosis by surgeon 2. Marginal reflex distance (MRD1) was calculated based on digital photographs at baseline, 1 week postoperatively and at 3-month follow up. The primary outcome measure was change in MRD1 over time. The secondary outcome was defined as the proportion of patients with minimal early postoperative change (change of MRD1 less than 0.5 mm at 1 week postoperatively). Repeated measures analysis of variance, t test, and chi-square analyses were performed.Of the 114 eyes in the sample, there were 68 in the MMCR group and 46 in the external levator resection group. A significant interaction between group and time was noted (p0.05), indicating change in MRD1 over time was different between the groups. Bonferroni corrected multiple comparisons yielded significant differences between each time point for MMCR surgery (p0.01). No difference in MRD1 was noted for the external levator resection group from the early to late postoperative visit. Comparing each time point across groups revealed significantly lower MRD1 for the MMCR group at the early postoperative visit (p0.01). Preoperative and late postoperative MRD1 did not significantly differ between the groups. Regarding the secondary outcome, patients undergoing MMCR surgery were 3.7× as likely to demonstrate0.5 mm of change in MRD1 at week 1 (p0.05). When considering the 39.7% (n = 27) MMCR patients in this category, 59.3% (n = 16) went on to show an MRD1 increase1 mm from the early postoperative to the late postoperative time points.Both external levator resection and MMCR can effectively elevate the eyelid in cases of primary involutional ptosis, and have similar late postoperative results. The authors found that MMCR cases undergo greater change between the early and late postoperative period, suggesting the process of eyelid elevation after MMCR may be dynamic, involving postoperative physiologic modification.

Purpose To analyze the upper eyelid contour of patients with unilateral congenital ptosis who underwent single-strip frontalis suspension. Methods The authors compared the upper eyelid shape of the right and left eyes of 10 patients who underwent unilateral frontalis suspension with a single strip of autogenous fascia. At a mean postoperative time of 10.1 ± 4.01 months, the image J software was used to measure the ratio between the nasal and temporal areas of the upper half of the palpebral fissure. The midpupil upper eyelid distance (MRD1) was also measured on the photos with the same software. The nonparametric Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to compare the data. Results Postoperative MRD1 ranged from 2.5 to 4.7 mm (median = 3.8) on the affected side. The MRD1 for nonoperated eyelid ranged from 1.8 to 5.0 mm (median = 3.5). On the operated side, the temporal areas ranged from 50.3 to 85.7 mm (median 65.2) and nasal areas ranged from 41.5 to 72.3 (the median was 60.1). In the contralateral, nonoperated palpebral fissures, the temporal areas ranged from 42.7 to 94.3 mm (median = 54.5) and the nasal areas ranged from 36.8 to 86.1 mm (median 52.3). The T/N ratio distributions were almost identical between groups, ranging from 0.9 to 1.2 (median = 1.1) in the operated eyes and from 0.9 to 1.3 (median = 1.1) in the fellow eyes. Conclusions In autogenous fascia frontalis suspension procedures, the upper eyelid contour of the ptotic eyelids can be adequately normalized with a single area of traction on the tarsal plate.

PURPOSE To characterize the phenylephrine test in ptotic patients to help clinicians perform the test more efficiently. METHODS Adults with involutional ptosis (n = 24, 30 eyes) were assessed with digital photographs for response to topical 2.5% phenylephrine drop instillation. Patient characteristics (age, gender, iris color, dermatochalasis, brow ptosis, and baseline marginal reflex distance-1 [MRD-1] height) were recorded. From the photographs, change in (MRD-1), presence of conjunctival blanching, pupillary dilation, and Hering effect were recorded at specified time intervals, 1 minute to 1 hour after drop placement. Correlations between patient characteristics and measured outcomes were evaluated using analysis of variance, Pearson coefficient, or chi-square tests. RESULTS The authors found that 73% of eyes had eyelid elevation with phenylephrine. Of these, 50% reached maximal eyelid elevation by 5 minutes, and 86% by 10 minutes after drop placement, but 14% did not reach maximal MRD-1 until 30 minutes. There is a negative correlation between the maximum MRD-1 and the baseline MRD-1 eyelid height (r = -0.5330, p < 0.01). There is no significant relationship between time to pupillary dilation with either time to max eyelid elevation or max eyelid elevation. No patient characteristic studied affected the likelihood of eyelid response to phenylephrine or presence of Hering effect. CONCLUSIONS Although most ptotic eyelids demonstrate a response to 2.5% phenylephrine within 10 minutes, there is a subset of patients that respond much later. More ptotic eyelids had greater eyelid elevation with phenylephrine. Pupillary dilation and conjunctival blanching are neither predictive of nor temporally associated with eyelid height elevation. The authors did not identify any patient factors (e.g., dermatochalasis, brow ptosis) that can predict the likelihood of response to phenylephrine.

A 3-month-old male developed intermittent left upper eyelid ptosis at the age of 1 month that was gradually increasing in frequency and duration. Examination revealed anisocoria and left upper and lower eyelid ptosis, consistent with a left Horner syndrome. Imaging showed a mass in the left superior posterior mediastinum, which was resected, and pathology was consistent with neuroblastoma. Eight months thereafter, the patient underwent left upper eyelid ptosis repair. Cases of infantile acquired Horner syndrome due to neuroblastoma are rare. To the authors' knowledge, there has only been one case described that presented with intermittent symptoms. The authors report the second case of intermittent acquired Horner syndrome due to neuroblastoma. This case demonstrates the importance of recognizing that Horner syndrome may present with subtle and intermittent symptoms. In a pediatric patient, one should maintain suspicion for neuroblastoma.

Purpose To compare 3 upper eyelid retraction repair techniques and introduce novel metrics, which enhance the analysis of postoperative aesthetic outcomes. Methods Retrospective review with Image J 1.48 digital analysis of patients who underwent repair of thyroid-related upper eyelid retraction at the University of Iowa from 1996 to 2014 via 1 of 3 surgical techniques, septum-opening levator recession with Muellerectomy, modified septum-preserving levator recession with Muellerectomy, and modified septum-preserving full-thickness blepharotomy, was conducted. Photographs were obtained preoperatively, 3 to 6 months postoperatively, and at last follow up (>6 months) and evaluated by digital image analysis (denoted by "i"). Outcome measures assessed were marginal reflex distance (iMRD1), temporal-to-nasal ratio, tarsal platform show (iTPS), pupil to visible eyelid crease, brow fat span (iBFS), tarsal platform show to brow fat span ratio (iTPS:iBFS), and tarsal platform show minimizing power (iTPS-minimizing power). Results A total of 121 eyelids (28 septum-opening levator recession with Muellerectomy, 66 septum-preserving levator recession with Muellerectomy, and 27 septum-preserving full-thickness blepharotomy) from 74 patients were evaluated with a mean follow up of 24.2 months. There were no statistically significant differences between techniques in terms of iMRD1 or temporal-to-nasal ratio reduction at either time point (intertechnique p values of 0.17 to >0.99). The percentage of eyelids from subjects undergoing bilateral intervention that achieved a final iMRD1 between 2.50 mm and 4.50 mm was similar (intertechnique p value of 0.23), with no difference regarding the number of subjects demonstrating iMRD1 symmetry within 1 mm (intertechnique p value of 0.15). Though iTPS elongation was greater at 3 to 6 months with septum-opening compared with the combined septum-preserving techniques (p value of 0.04), this difference was not maintained at final follow up (p value of >0.99). There was no difference in terms of iTPS symmetry at time of final follow up (intertechnique p value of 0.69). The pupil to visible eyelid crease was unchanged in all techniques (p values >0.99). Mean changes in iBFS at final follow up were -1.27 mm, -0.44 mm, and +0.55 mm for septum-opening levator recession with Muellerectomy, septum-preserving levator recession with Muellerectomy, and septum-preserving full-thickness blepharotomy (p values of 0.01, 0.49, and >0.99, respectively). Mean iTPS:iBFS ratios at final follow up were not statistically different between techniques (intertechnique p value of 0.10) and no difference in symmetry was demonstrated (intertechnique p value of 0.47). Median values for iTPS-minimizing power were: -0.83, -0.93, and -1.01 for septum-opening levator recession with Muellerectomy, septum-preserving levator recession with Muellerectomy, and septum-preserving full-thickness blepharotomy, respectively (intertechnique p value of 0.54). Conclusions Each technique appropriately lowered the eyelid and improved contour without intertechnique variability. Septum-preserving techniques demonstrated less iTPS elongation initially, but this difference was not maintained. The visible eyelid crease height (pupil to visible eyelid crease) remained stable in all techniques, indicating that the iTPS elongation seen with each technique was secondary to reduction in iMRD1 and the iBFS reduction seen with septum-opening levator recession with Muellerectomy was due to brow descent. No intertechnique differences in the amount of iTPS elongation relative to iMRD1 reduction (i.e., the novel iTPS-minimizing power) were seen. Given that each procedure evaluated yielded similar results, technique selection may be guided by surgeon experience and preference.

Purpose To describe the change in upper eyelid position in a self-reportedly normal population after the administration of topical 0.5% apraclonidine in each eye. Methods One hundred self-reportedly normal subjects received a 1-time administration of topical 0.5% apraclonidine in each eye. Digital photographs were taken at baseline and then 30 and 45 minutes following apraclonidine instillation. Marginal reflex distance 1 was determined via image analysis of acquired digital photographs (image-derived measurements are given the prefix "i" in this study). The horizontal corneal diameter was used as a constant measurement scale in each photograph. Results The mean increase in i-marginal reflex distance 1 post-administration of 0.5% apraclonidine was +0.70 ± 0.60 mm (range, -0.94 to +2.66 mm) after 30 minutes and +0.68 ± 0.59 mm (range, -0.69 to +2.54 mm) after 45 minutes. Of the 200 total eyelids in 100 subjects, 181 (90.5%) had an increase in i-marginal reflex distance 1 at 30 minutes. Of the 100 subjects, 85 (85%) had a bilateral increase in i-marginal reflex distance 1, 4 (4%) had a bilateral decrease, and 11 (11%) had a unilateral increase with a contralateral decrease. Conclusions Given its predominant small-amplitude upper eyelid elevating effect, topical apraclonidine may be a useful off-label alternative treatment for mild upper eyelid ptosis and in eyelid asymmetry due to eyelid retraction through use in the contralateral eye.

Purpose To report outcomes of a randomized trial on the role of "active" Manuka honey on eyelid surgical wound healing. Method Prospective, randomized, single-blinded study was performed for patients undergoing bilateral upper blepharoplasty. Vaseline was applied 4 times a day to both sides for 6 weeks and in addition, one eyelid was randomized to receive Manuka honey twice daily. Postoperative wounds were graded by a masked observer at 1 week, 1 month, and 4 months using Manchester scar scale and a modified eyelid scar grading scale. Patients scored symptoms, expressed preferred side, and of any problems they experienced using honey. Standard photographs were graded by 2 independent assessors. Results Fifty-five patients were randomized. One week after surgery, 46 (29 women, 17 men, mean age 68 years, median 69, range 49-85) were available for analysis. There was a trend toward distortion of the surrounding skin being less (1.6 vs. 1.8, p = 0.07) and the scar being less palpable (1.8 vs. 2.0, p = 0.08) on the Manuka-treated side. Patients reported the scar on the Manuka side to have less stiffness (1.3 vs. 1.6, p = 0.058). At 1 month, all 3 grading scales showed no difference between the 2 sides. At 4 months, scar grading scales showed no differences; however, patients reported scar pain to be significantly less on the Manuka-treated side than control (0.48 vs. 1.9, p = 0.005). Thirty-one of 46 patients believed the scars were similar on both sides, 11 preferred the honey-treated side, and 4 preferred the control. Conclusion Upper eyelid scars treated with or without Manuka honey heal well, without significant difference when assessed by validated scar grading scales; however, honey may provide subjective benefits early, postoperatively.

PURPOSE To report outcomes and complications of periorbital autologous fat grafting (AFG) in improving volume loss-related symmetry and function in facial nerve palsy patients and to assess patient satisfaction. METHODS A retrospective, noncomparative review of all facial nerve palsy patients who underwent periorbital AFG at single center over a 4-year period. Two independent graders objectively assessed standard photographs for any change in volume loss and symmetry: pre- and postoperative periods (early, 0-2 months; intermediate, 3-9 months; and late, >10 months). Any adverse outcomes were recorded. Patient satisfaction was assessed by questionnaire survey. RESULTS A total of 18 facial nerve palsy patients (13 females) underwent periorbital AFG between February 2011 and 2015. Mean age was 51.9 ± 15.3 years (range, 26-76). Mean follow up was 6.8 ± 4.6 (range, 0.5-15) months. Photographs of 14 patients were eligible for evaluation. Tear trough visibility (p < 0.01), infraorbital rim visibility (p = 0.03), and lower eyelid-cheek junction symmetry (p < 0.01) improved in the early postoperative period with persistence of improvement in the latter parameter at intermediate postoperative period (p < 0.01). Lagophthalmos significantly improved (p = 0.03) in the early postoperative period. Two patients developed cheek cellulitis and 4 had persistent malar edema (3 had existing edema). Questionnaire survey showed a reduction in daytime ocular lubricants and an improvement in nocturnal-lagophthalmos symptoms. CONCLUSION Periorbital AFG is a useful adjunct in improving symmetry and lagophthalmos in facial nerve palsy patients where volume loss is a contributory factor but effects were not long lasting. Patient satisfaction is high. Those with preexisting malar bags are at higher risk of developing persistent malar edema following periorbital AFG.

To report a series of patients with herpes zoster ophthalmicus and associated acute orbital syndrome with corresponding radiographic findings.Medical records of 7 patients with herpes zoster ophthalmicus with acute orbital findings were reviewed. Clinical presentation, radiography, and treatment outcomes were assessed.One man and 6 women with a median age of 70 years (range 47-84) presented with herpes zoster ophthalmicus with acute clinical orbital signs. Two of the 7 patients had compromised immune systems, with 1 patient having chronic lymphocytic leukemia and another infected with human immunodeficiency virus. Clinical orbital findings included proptosis, blepharoptosis, ophthalmoplegia, diplopia, and visual loss. Orbital imaging detailed such findings as myositis in all 7 patients, dacryoadenitis in 2 patients, and optic nerve sheath enhancement in 1 patient. Treatment with intravenous acyclovir was universal in all 7 patients and in 2 cases systemic corticosteroids were also administered. Orbital signs improved in all patients over several months.Herpes zoster ophthalmicus can rarely cause an acute orbital syndrome and the authors present what may be the largest series of such patients to date. Herpes zoster ophthalmicus can affect various orbital structures including the lacrimal gland, extraocular muscles, cranial nerves and optic nerve sheath. A careful clinical examination and detailed orbital radiography are critical in proper diagnosis and treatment of such patients. Improvement of symptoms and signs with antiviral therapy can be expected; however, complete resolution does not always occur. The role of systemic steroids in treatment of orbital disease is yet to be determined.

Neuroblastoma is the most common type of extracranial solid tumor during childhood. Clinical presentation includes ipsilateral ptosis, myosis, anhydrosis and enophthalmos. The case of a 2.5-year-old boy who had a complaint of constriction of the left pupil for 3 days is presented. In the physical examination, the pupil of the OD was moderately dilated; there was myosis on the OS and ptosis on the left eyelid. Horner syndrome was considered due to these findings. History of the patient revealed that a central venous catheter insertion procedure was tried from the left side.

PURPOSE The authors present a new series of our experience using posterior approach levatorpexy for congenital ptosis with poorer levator function (LF) in comparison with our first published report. This technique avoids a skin incision or any resection in addition to no excision of tissue. METHODS A consecutive series of 16 patients. Retrospective review of levatorpexy for congenital ptosis. Data included eyelid margin reflex distance 1, pretarsal show, contour, and complications, including nocturnal lagophthalmos, eyelid lag on downgaze, and dry eye. Surgery was considered successful if the following 4 criteria were simultaneously met: a postoperative margin reflex distance 1 of ≥2 mm and ≤4.5 mm, intereyelid height asymmetry of ≤1 mm, no overcorrection compare to opposite eye, and satisfactory eyelid contour. RESULTS Mean age was 10.3 years (range 1-26 years). Mean LF was 7.3 mm (2-14 mm), while 66% (12) had LF ≤7 mm. Preoperative phenylephrine test was positive in 87.5% of patients. Mean preoperative and postoperative margin reflex distance 1 was 1.34 mm and 3.2 mm, respectively. Fourteen patients (87%) achieved the desired eyelid height and fulfilled our criteria set of success. Among 10 patients with LF ≤7 mm, 9 (90%) achieved the desired eyelid height and fulfilled our criteria set of success. Ninety-four percent did not report nocturnal lagophthalmos. Three patients needed a further levatorpexy procedure due to undercorrection. Mean postoperative follow up was up 11.2 (range 6-36) months. CONCLUSIONS Posterior approach levatorpexy is an useful first-line choice for congenital ptosis for all ranges of LF. It is popular among parents due to its avoidance of a skin incision or any resection or excision of tissue.

PURPOSE Repair of blepharoptosis secondary to surgical overcorrection of thyroid related primary upper eyelid retraction (secondary ptosis) can be unpredictable. This study describes the long-term results of "hang-back" nylon sutures, for an anterior approach surgical repair of secondary ptosis. METHODS This was a retrospective consecutive case note review of patients referred with secondary ptosis (after prior upper eyelid lowering for thyroid eye disease), under the care of a single surgeon at Moorfields Eye Hospital & subsequently at Barking Havering Redbridge University Hospitals NHS Trust (SSD). In accordance with hospital trust policy, this audit was registered and all patient data was anonymized, ethical approval was not required. Patients with secondary ptosis underwent surgery under local anesthesia through an upper eyelid skin-crease incision. The anterior portion of the levator muscle was freed from all scar tissues and its action re-established on the superior part of the upper tarsal plate, using two 6-0 nylon hang-back sutures placed centrally and medially. The margin reflex distance 1 (MRD1), skin crease height, eyelid contour, symmetry of eyelid position (difference in margin reflex distance 1

PURPOSE To describe in detail a technique for a modified Fasanella-Servat procedure that provides a simplified method for graded Mueller muscle excision with minimal and controlled tarsal excision. METHODS A retrospective study of 71 patients (102 eyelids) who underwent the modified Fasanella-Servat procedure is reported. Measurements include the preoperative, post-phenylephrine, and postoperative margin-to-reflex distance-1, and postoperative upper eyelid height symmetry as determined by the absolute difference between right- and left-sided margin-to-reflex distance-1. Postoperative complications are reported. RESULTS The average increase in margin-to-reflex distance-1 was 2.4 mm with an average postoperative upper eyelid height symmetry of 0.4 mm. Postoperative asymmetry was 1.5 mm or less in 68 patients, a success rate of 96%. Four patients (6%) exhibited overcorrection, 2 of which required additional surgery. No lagophthalmos or notable eyelid contour abnormalities were seen. CONCLUSIONS The modified Fasanella-Servat technique offers a simple method to isolate and resect Mueller muscle and a minimal segment of tarsus in a quantitative fashion, allowing for a graded repair of blepharoptosis and thereby decreasing the risk of postoperative overcorrection, lagophthalmos, and eyelid contour asymmetry whilst preserving the bulk of tarsus.

PURPOSE To report the results of skin crease preservation with a modified technique of open-sky Muller's muscle-conjunctival resection that precludes the need to reconstruct the upper eyelid skin crease with full thickness sutures. METHODS A nonrandomized, retrospective audit of 45 eyelids of 37 consecutive patients with acquired blepharoptosis, undergoing surgical correction by a single surgeon, between November 2011 and July 2014. Surgical technique involved subtotal resection of Muller's muscle plus underlying conjunctiva, under direct visualization. The stump of Muller's muscle was then reattached to the superior tarsus with buried 7-0 Vicryl. Wound closure was achieved using interrupted buried 7-0 Vicryl, without full thickness skin crease reformation. Outcomes were evaluated according to standards recommended by the British Oculoplastic Surgery Society National Ptosis survey. These included assessment of upper margin reflex distance (MRD1), skin crease, eyelid contour and symmetry and surgical complications. RESULTS In total, all 45 eyelids met the outcome criteria for success. The median MRD1 increased from 0 mm preoperatively (range: -2 to 2) to 3.1 mm (range: 3-5 mm) following surgery, p value < 0.01. For patients with unilateral blepharoptosis, the average postoperative eyelid height difference between right and left was 0.17 mm (range: 0-1 mm). All patients achieved good eyelid contour and symmetry and none required reoperation as assessed at final follow up following surgery (mean 77 days, range: 24-366). Skin crease was lowered and normalized in all patients with median preoperative and postoperative measurements of 12 mm and 10 mm, respectively, p value < 0.01. Two cases (4.4%) developed early asymptomatic superficial punctate keratopathy, which resolved spontaneously by 4 weeks. Nonstandardized patient experience survey achieved high scores for overall satisfaction and likelihood to recommend treatment to friends and family, with low scores for postoperative pain and swelling. CONCLUSIONS Skin Crease Preserving modified open-sky Muller's muscle-conjunctival resection is an effective technique for correcting blepharoptosis, while normalizing the skin crease.

Lipogranulomas of the periocular tissues with fulminant fibrotic and lymphohistiocytic responses were initially described in cases of exogenous paraffin or petrolatum jelly injections ("paraffinomas"). A 49-year-old Cambodian woman slowly developed bilateral pseudoptosis with intact levator function and redundant, taut upper eyelid skin. At surgery, vesiculations or "bubbles" in the preaponeurotic fat were encountered and were demonstrated histopathologically to be empty locules surrounded by a thin collagenous lamina. Outside these extracellular spaces were CD68/CD163-positive mononucleated and univacuolated histiocytes simulating damaged fat cells or neoplastic lipoblasts in hematoxylin and eosin sections. Giant cells and chronic sclerosing inflammation were absent. The patient denied any previous injections. The bland character of the lipogranulomas in comparison with that of other injectable agents, the absence of any residual particles associated with other cosmetic fillers, and the distinctive histiocytic response of lipoblast-like cells that were sufficiently characteristic to compel the diagnosis of surreptitious silicone injections. Other conditions were excluded based on comparative clinicopathologic criteria.

PURPOSE To examine the post-aponeurotic space and to confirm and define the presence of a post-aponeurosis fat-pad. METHODS Experimental anatomic study. Nineteen-orbits from 10 freeze-preserved, unembalmed cadavers of caucasian subjects. In 12 orbits of 7 cadavers, a transconjunctival dissection of the everted upper eyelid was undertaken. Muller's muscle (MM) and conjunctiva were dissected as a composite flap exposing the posterior surface of the aponeurosis (LA) and the commencement of the levator palpebrae superioris (LPS) muscle. Anatomical localisation was agreed by 2 senior surgeons and an anatomist (VM). In the remaining 7 orbits a 1cm central upper eyelid wedge-excision was paraffin-embedded and studied histologically. RESULTS Nineteen upper-eyelids from 10 freeze-preserved, unembalmed caucasian cadavers (5-male, 5-female, mean age 80.9; range 67-91 years) were studied. Of 12 eyelids of 7 cadavers, dissected and macroscopically evaluated, a fat-pad was identified in the post-aponeurotic space of all eyelids. Of these, 8 (66%) were predominantly diffuse. The remainder, mixed diffuse-discrete. All 4 of the latter category appeared multi-lobular. The fat-pad was seen to lie predominantly centro-medially, overlying MM, extending superiorly beyond the LA to lie posterior to LPS. Of the 7 upper eyelid wedge-excisions examined microscopically, a fat-pad was identified in all post-aponeurotic spaces, lying between 2 distinct tracts of smooth muscle. The anterior smooth muscle tract was intimately related to the posterior aspect of the LA, in keeping with the posterior smooth muscle layer of the aponeurosis. The posterior smooth muscle tract was in keeping with MM, thicker than the anterior layer, multi-layered and in 6 of 7 eyelids, interspersed with fat. CONCLUSIONS We confirm and describe a distinct layer of fat in the post-aponeurotic space, consistently found between MM and the posterior smooth muscle layer of the aponeurosis. We refer to this as the post-aponeurosis fat-pad. These findings provide further anatomical detail for the surgeon undertaking blepharoptosis surgery, who may, in some cases, mistake the presence of fat in this space either for the pre-aponeurotic fat-pad, or for degenerative changes within MM that lies deep to it.

PURPOSE To evaluate factors that affect eyelid crease formation before and after frontalis suspension. DESIGN Nonrandomized, comparative, interventional case series. METHODS Sixty-three patients (125 eyes) with myogenic ptosis were included. Data collected included age, gender, previous surgeries, follow up, as well as pre- and postoperative margin reflex distance, palpebral fissure height, and levator function. Intraoperative maneuvers of incorporation of the levator aponeurosis into the skin closure, conservative fat excision, and conservative skin excision were recorded. Pre- and postoperative eyelid creases were graded by 2 masked, independent observers as "good," "fair," or "poor." RESULTS The weighted κ coefficient between the graders was 0.68 (95% CI, 0.58-0.79) preoperatively and 0.70 (95% CI, 0.61-0.79) postoperatively. Evaluating preoperative eyelid crease grades, there was no significant difference with regard to age or gender (p = 0.83 or 0.69, respectively). Eyelid crease grade correlated with margin reflex distance (p = 0.0004) and palpebral fissure height (p = 0.002). There was no significant correlation of eyelid crease with levator function (p = 0.104). After frontalis sling, intraoperative maneuvers of incorporation of the levator aponeurosis into the incision, skin preservation, and fat preservation correlated with postoperative eyelid crease (p = 0.0004, 0.059, and 0.033, respectively). CONCLUSIONS Preoperative levator function in patients with adult onset myogenic ptosis may be an inaccurate measure of true levator palpebrae strength. Reliance on levator function alone in decision making for surgical intervention in these patients may be misguided. The inclusion of the intraoperative maneuvers of incorporation of the levator aponeurosis into the skin incision and preservation of fat and skin results in a stronger eyelid crease after frontalis sling surgery.

PURPOSE To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of a frontalis muscle transposition flap for treatment of lateral eyebrow ptosis. METHODS The charts of all patients undergoing frontalis muscle transposition flap eyebrow ptosis repair from December 2013 to September 2014 were reviewed. Charts with inadequate photographs were excluded. Charts were reviewed for demographics, preoperative and postoperative photographs, surgical technique, and complications. The following parameters were assessed on preoperative and postoperative photographs: corneal diameter, central brow height, and lateral brow height. Measurements were normalized to a standard corneal diameter of 11.5 mm. Statistical analysis was performed in conjunction with the Cleveland Health Institute Biostatistics Department. RESULTS Forty-six total patients underwent frontalis muscle transposition flap eyebrow ptosis repair and the charts of 31 patients (53 cases) were reviewed. There were 20 female and 11 male patients. Average age was 69.1 ± 7.7 years (range: 50 - 86 years). There were 9 unilateral and 22 bilateral cases. Concomitant surgeries included upper blepharoplasty (33 cases), conjunctival-Mullerectomy blepharoptosis repair (3 cases), and intralesional tetracycline injection for festoons (3 cases). Average follow-up interval between surgery and the final postoperative photograph was 10.2 weeks (range: 6-26 weeks). Overall, lateral brow height increased postoperatively by 1.78 mm (p < 0.05). In patients that underwent frontalis muscle transposition flap alone, lateral brow height increased by 2.86 mm (p < 0.05). Scalp hypesthesia was documented in 10/31 patients, and resolved in 8/10 patients at last follow up. CONCLUSIONS A frontalis muscle transposition flap effectively addresses lateral eyebrow ptosis repair through a small, relatively concealed incision. It produces temporary scalp hypesthesia in a significant number of patients, and long-term results remain unknown.

Purpose To determine the effect of ptosis on compensatory frontalis contraction in patients without visual input and to identify if a sensory stimulus contributes to brow elevation. Methods A prospective study. Clinical photographs were measured by 2 masked oculoplastic surgeons to determine brow height in 8 patients with unilateral ocular prosthesis in 3 conditions: at baseline, after a gold weight was applied to the upper eyelid inducing acute ptosis, and with the gold weight plus topical anesthetic. The measured brow height was then compared between the 3 scenarios. Results Mean brow height increased after application of the gold weight when compared with baseline, and this difference reached significance (p = 0.012). After topical anesthetic was applied, the mean brow height decreased but not back to baseline. When mean brow height during the gold weight with topical anesthesia was compared with baseline and with the gold weight only scenarios, the difference was not significant (p > 0.05). Conclusions Frontalis contraction is observed when acute ptosis is simulated in anophthalmic patients, confirming that a contracted visual field cannot be the only stimulus for compensatory brow elevation. A sensory or proprioceptive mechanism is suggested but not confirmed by the trend of reduction in brow elevation with topical anesthesia.

Purpose Congenital ptosis is most commonly of mild to moderate severity, with good to fair levator function. The appropriate procedures for this condition are levator resection or levator aponeurosis approaches. Among the latter, the levator plication method has received little attention because of a relatively high rate of ptosis recurrence secondary to weak adhesion. In this study, the authors described and retrospectively analyzed the results of an alternative plication technique, the "under-through levator complex plication" method. This method differs from conventional levator plication primarily by the posterior part of the levator complex being advanced to the tarsal plate to produce strong adhesion. Methods Five hundred and ten eyelids of 255 consecutive patients who underwent the under-through levator complex plication for congenital bilateral symmetrical ptosis were included in this study. Final outcomes were assessed at more than 5 months after surgery. Results The mean preoperative and postoperative marginal reflex distance 1 (MRD1) were 1.73 and 3.71 mm, respectively, and the mean amount of levator plication for every 1-mm increase in MRD1 was 3.31 mm. After the levator complex was plicated by the amount planned preoperatively, 65.1% of eyelids were at the target height. After subsequent intraoperative adjustments of the amount of plication, the overall surgery success rate was 94.5%. Recurrent ptosis due to relapse was not observed. Conclusions The newly described surgical technique has overcome the limitations of conventional levator plication, by increasing the success rate and markedly reducing the relapse rate, while preserving the advantages of the conventional technique.

Purpose: To analyze the cosmetic and functional results of a large series of patients with unilateral congenital ptosis without spontaneous compensatory ipsilateral frontalis hyperaction who underwent supramaximal levator resection (SMLPSr). Methods: A multicenter retrospective review of 35 children (14 girls and 21 boys) of mean age 5.5 ± 3.6 SD years with unilateral congenital ptosis who underwent surgery in 3 different countries: Italy, n = 8; Argentina, n = 11; and Brazil, n = 16. Preoperative evaluation included measurements of upper eyelid margin reflex distance (MRD 1 ) and levator palpebrae superioris muscle excursion, assessment of frontalis hyperaction, and ocular motility examination. At least 6 months postoperatively, photographs were used to measure the upper eyelid contour of OU. The spontaneous blinking amplitude and downward eyelid saccades of OU were quantified in a subset of 14 patients. Quantitative comparison among the 3 centers was performed with nonparametric 1-way analysis of variance (Kruskal–Wallis). Paired t tests were used to compare the pre- and postoperative measurements, and p value < 0.05 was statistically significant. Results: The mean preoperative MRD 1 of the operated eyes increased from 0.5 ± 1.1 SD mm to 3.4 ± 0.84 SD mm (t = 15.9; p < 0.000001), consequently the eyelid positional asymmetry decreased from 3.1 ± 1.21 mm to 0.1 ± 0.86 SD mm (t = 16.5; p ≤ 0.000001). Twenty-nine percent of eyelids had mild contour abnormalities and 31.4% showed some degree of lash ptosis. Spontaneous blinks were abnormal in 93% of the cases (eyelids). The amplitude of the abnormal blinks ranged from 12.9% to 65.4% (mean = 37.1%) of the contralateral eyelids. Downward eyelid saccades were reduced in 79% of the eyelids. The amplitudes the saccades ranged from 2.2% to 84.6% (mean = 54.8%). Conclusions: In unilateral congenital ptosis, SMLPSr effectively reduces the positional asymmetry between eyelids. Mild contour abnormalities and lash ptosis are the main complications of the surgery. Postoperatively, spontaneous blinks and downward saccades were reduced in most eyelids. The reduced postoperative eyelid kinetics indicates that only patients with normal upward Bell signs are good candidates for this procedure.

Purpose To evaluate the safety of onabotulinum toxin A injected into the central upper eyelid and eyebrow regions. Methods The authors retrospectively reviewed the charts of all patients undergoing onabotulinum toxin A injection to the central upper eyelid and eyebrow between February, 2012, and November, 2012. Age, gender, indication, injection sites, number of central units, total number of units, and occurrence of adverse events were all recorded. Results A total of 300 procedures on 88 patients were performed, in whom the central upper eyelid and/or central eyebrow was injected with onabotulinum toxin A. There were 68 female and 20 male patients. Average age was 68.7±13.3 years (range, 42-92 years). Indications for central eyelid/eyebrow treatment included blepharospasm (34 patients, 176 procedures), hemifacial spasm (21 patients, 40 procedures), facial nerve disorders (2 patients, 9 procedures), and facial rhytides/eyebrow ptosis (31 patients, 75 procedures). The amount of neurotoxin injected into the central eyelid and eyebrow ranged from 2 to 12.5 units per encounter. Complications included diplopia (4% of total encounters), lagophthalmos (1% of total encounters), blepharoptosis (1% of total encounters), and blurry vision (1% of total encounters). Minor local effects, including bruising, bleeding, pain, and mild swelling, were recorded in 3.3% of total encounters. Conclusions Placement of onabotulinum toxin A into the central upper eyelid and eyebrow is associated with a low rate of blepharoptosis. Central eyelid and eyebrow neurotoxin injection can be safely added to the regimen when treatment calls for chemodenervation of the central orbicularis oculi.