Eyelid Skin Grafting in Young Patients with Facial Nerve Palsy.

Background

The aim of this study is to report outcomes of eyelid full-thickness skin grafting augmentation in facial nerve palsy (FNP) patients younger than 50 years of age.

Methods

In a retrospective, consecutive case series, nine eyelid skin grafts performed on eight FNP patients with skin contraction (five females; median age 42 years [range, 17-47]) are presented. In most cases, upper eyelid skin grafting was combined with levator recession and anterior lamellar repositioning. Lower eyelid skin grafting was combined with lower retractors recession in all cases. Functional and cosmetic outcomes were measured preoperatively and at early (1-3 months), intermediate (3-6 months), and late (≥12 months) follow-up.

Results

The corneal score improved at early follow-up (p = 0.03) and remained improved at late follow-up (p = 0.042). The gentle closure lagophthalmos was improved at late follow-up (p = 0.042). (p = 0.048). The grades of graft color, edge/skin interface, and size improved at 3-6 months post-grafting and remained improved at late follow-up (p < 0.05). Over the follow-up, four patients (50%) were recommended to have further surgical procedures.

Conclusions

The preliminary results from this small cohort suggest that eyelid skin grafting is a viable option for young patients prioritizing cosmesis. This technique warrants consideration for its functional benefits.