Use of dermal filler to improve exposure keratopathy in a patient with restrictive dermopathy

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Plastic Surgery
• Genetics

Background:

• Progeria-like syndromes present unique challenges in managing ocular complications.
• Bilateral lagophthalmos and exposure keratopathy require effective eyelid closure.
• Conventional treatments like skin grafting may be contraindicated due to patient co-morbidities and limited tissue availability.

Observation:

• A 26-year-old female with a Progeria-like phenotype exhibited bilateral lagophthalmos and exposure keratopathy.
• Surgical interventions, including skin grafting, were not feasible due to insufficient donor skin and co-existing medical conditions.

Findings:

• Dermal fillers were utilized to address the upper eyelid sulcus hollowing.
• The application of dermal fillers increased the weight of the upper eyelid.
• This intervention effectively reduced the degree of lagophthalmos.

Implications:

• Dermal fillers represent a viable and less invasive alternative for treating lagophthalmos in specific patient populations.
• This technique can improve ocular surface health and prevent further vision-threatening complications.
• Further research into the long-term efficacy and safety of dermal fillers for lagophthalmos is warranted.