INNOVATIONS
Hyaluronic Acid Gel Gold-Weight for Paralytic Lagophthalmos
Functional & Clinical Benefits
The Hyaluronic Acid Gel Gold-Weight technique, developed by Dr. Ronald Mancini, is a novel surgical approach used to treat paralytic lagophthalmos, a condition in which patients cannot fully close their eyelids due to facial nerve paralysis.
Traditional treatments often involve surgically implanting a small gold weight into the upper eyelid to help gravity close the eye. Dr. Mancini’s innovation uses hyaluronic acid gel as a functional alternative, allowing physicians to temporarily restore eyelid closure while preserving eyelid anatomy and function.
This minimally invasive approach can help protect the cornea, improve eye comfort, and reduce complications associated with permanent eyelid implants.
The technique was first described in:
Mancini R, Taban M, et al. (2009) Use of Hyaluronic Acid Gel in the Management of Paralytic Lagophthalmos: The Hyaluronic Acid Gel Gold-Weight. Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.
Who May Benefit from This Procedure?
Patients experiencing facial nerve paralysis, Bell’s palsy, or eyelid weakness that prevents complete eye closure may benefit from this innovative approach. The technique is particularly useful for patients who need temporary eyelid support while nerve function recovers or while planning long-term surgical reconstruction.
