Floppy Eyelid Syndrome
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Overview
Floppy Eyelid Syndrome (FES) is a relatively uncommon condition characterized by loose, easily everted upper eyelids. FES is often seen in overweight, middle-aged males. Some of these patients also suffer from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Treatment for FES often includes artificial tears to reduce irritation and an antibiotic if signs of infection are present. Using tape or an eyeshield to keep the eyelids closed while sleeping may help prevent lid eversion and keep the eyes from becoming dry. Symptoms generally consist of ocular injection, irritation, itching and stringy mucous discharge, particularly upon awakening. The symptoms can appear unilaterally or asymmetrically. Patients with OSA might possibly also complain of erratic sleep patterns, chronic somnolence and morning headaches.
Examination of patients with FES typically reveals chronic papillary conjunctivitis with mild to moderate bulbar hyperemia, often lateralizing to the patient’s habitual sleeping side. Punctate corneal epitheliopathy and mucous strands in the tear film and fornices might be apparent. The lids themselves routinely display pseudoptosis and an odd “rubbery” consistency. Eversion of the upper lids can be accomplished with minimal manipulation; in fact, it might possibly occur spontaneously during normal ocular examination. Past ocular history might possibly include meibomian gland dysfunction, hordeola or chalazia, keratoconus, and seasonal allergic conjunctivitis.
Many patients with FES manifest attendant blepharitis, particularly meibomian gland dysfunction. Rosacea has also been found in association with both FES and OSA. For these patients, a trial of oral doxycycline may be considered.
Pathophysiology
The etiology of FES is not thoroughly understood. Research has demonstrated that tarsal elastin is significantly diminished in these patients, such that the tarsal plate of the eyelid no longer displays its customary rigidity.4 One study suggests that individuals with FES may have underlying genetic collagen or elastin abnormalities.5 The precise mechanism of this disorder also remains disputed. The most widely held theory suggests that, because of the lid laxity and tendency of these patients to lie on their sides or in a “face-down” position, spontaneous lid eversion occurs during sleep. This results in mechanical abrasion of the ocular surface. Others have suggested that the underlying mechanism is simply poor apposition of the upper eyelid to the globe, instigating an inadequate tear distribution and subsequent desiccation of the ocular surface.
Management
At Idaho Eyelid and Facial Plastic Surgery, diagnosis is typically made by the classic appearance and effortless or spontaneous eversion of the eyelids. There are few ancillary tests to consider beyond the normal ocular evaluation, though vital dye staining (e.g., sodium fluorescein, rose bengal and/or lissamine green) may help to assess the severity of any associated keratopathy. Treatment for FES consists primarily of lubricating the ocular surface and safeguarding the eye from nocturnal damage. Isotonic artificial tears, used liberally throughout the day, help to eliminate mucous debris and promote corneal healing. In cases of moderate or profound epitheliopathy, more viscous lubricants such as Systane or Refresh Liquigel are considered. At bedtime, patient should use either a bland ophthalmic ointment (e.g. Tears Naturale P.M.) or mild antibiotic ointment and apply a protective eye shield, or simply tape the lids in a closed position. Substantial, recalcitrant cases that do not respond to primary therapy might possibly require surgical intervention. Most commonly, this involves a lateral eyelid tightening procedure at the lateral canthus, or a horizontal lid shortening procedure by full-thickness resection of the lateral one-third of the lid margin.67 Lateral tarsorrhaphy has been suggested for noncompliant patients with severe disease.
As important as managing the ocular sequelae of FES is addressing the associated problem of obstructive sleep apnea. OSA is a potentially fatal condition that has been linked to pulmonary hypertension, congestive heart failure and cardiac arrhythmia. Weight loss and consultation with a sleep physician for appropriate studies are highly recommended, considering the significant co-morbidities of both obesity and OSA. At least one study has demonstrated notable improvement of FES when OSA is well addressed. When interviewing patients with FES, Idaho Eyelid and Facial Plastic Surgery will inquire about prominent snoring or gasping episodes during sleep. In this regard, realize that a spouse or family member might possibly actually prove to be a more reliable resource. Any such findings consistent with OSA warrant consultation with a sleep physician, otolaryngologist or pulmonologist. Idaho Eyelid and Facial Plastic Surgery can refer you to sleep clinics, as needed.
References
McNab AA. Floppy eyelid syndrome and obstructive sleep apnea. Ophthal Plast Reconstr Surg 1997;13(2):98-114. Mojon DS, Goldblum D, Fleischhauer J, et al. Eyelid, conjunctival, and corneal findings in sleep apnea syndrome. Ophthalmology 1999;106(6):1182-5. Robert PY, Adenis JP, Tapie P, et al. Eyelid hyperlaxity and obstructive sleep apnea (O.S.A.) syndrome. Eur J Ophthalmol 1997;7(3):211-5. Netland PA, Sugrue SP, Albert DM, et al. Histopathologic features of the floppy eyelid syndrome. Involvement of tarsal elastin. Ophthalmology 1994; 10(1)1:174-81. Lee WJ, Kim JC, Shyn KH. Clinical evaluation of corneal diseases associated with floppy eyelid syndrome. Kor J Ophthalmol 1996;10(2):116-21. Periman LM, Sires BS. Floppy eyelid syndrome: A modified surgical technique. Ophthal Plast Reconstr Surg 2002;18(5):370-2. Bouchard CS. Lateral tarsorrhaphy for a noncompliant patient with floppy eyelid syndrome. Am J Ophthalmol 1992;114(3):367-9. McNab AA. Reversal of floppy eyelid syndrome with treatment of obstructive sleep apnoea. Clin Experiment Ophthalmol 2000;28(2):125-6.