Original Article March 04, 2026 March 04, 2026

Paralytic lagophthalmos resulting from peripheral facial palsy: clinical features and multidisciplinary approach

DOI: 10.37039/1982.8551.20260014

ABSTRACT

Objective:

To describe the clinical features and multidisciplinary management of paralytic lagophthalmos secondary to peripheral facial palsy, focusing on ocular complications.

Methods:

A cross-sectional, observational, and retrospective analysis was conducted on five patients treated at an ophthalmologic emergency service in Curitiba, Brazil.

Results:

All patients developed keratitis associated with lagophthalmos, confirming the correlation between these conditions. Treatment included ocular lubrication and corneal reepithelialization, but nocturnal eye occlusion was prescribed in only some cases. Referrals varied with symptom duration: acute cases were referred to neurology, while subacute cases were directed to corneal specialists.

Conclusion:

The findings highlight the importance of early, integrated ophthalmologic care to prevent severe complications. The lack of basic measures, such as nocturnal eye protection, reflects gaps in care and underscores the need for greater awareness among healthcare professionals regarding essential management strategies for peripheral facial palsy.