Author Topic: Blepharotomy procedure for dry eye  (Read 4097 times)

britzotgirl

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Blepharotomy procedure for dry eye
« on: September 14, 2006, 12:52:09 pm »
I had surgery for a large AN almost 3 years ago, and my eye function is still not good.  Just yesterday I went to a specialist at The University of Michigan's Kellogg Eye Center to have my eye checked and to see what options I have as to procedures to help my eye to blink and function better.  The Dr. told me of all the common procedures I am already familiar with; i.e. gold weight, spring, etc. as well as conservative self-care with drops, ointments, moisture shield for your glasses, etc.  Anyway, she told me of a newer procedure called a blepharotomy in which they go in and make an incision in the upper eyelid and weaken the muscle a bit so that you are able to blink.  My lower lid position is not too good either, so something would most likely be done to help that as well.  I would just like to know if there is anyone that has had this procedure done and whether the results have been satisfactory.  The thing I am concerned with would be whether it would alter my appearance?  The Dr. said they are only talking in increments of "millimeters" in lowering the position of the upper eyelid and it would not change how a person looks.  You wouldn't be left with only a slit, or anything that extreme.  I am also concerned about whether the eyelid will tend to droop as you age?  I already have the eyebrow that does not move anymore that will droop more as I age, and I don't especially want to worry about something else.  :)

Thanks so much to anyone able to offer any input into this subject!

Regards,
Karen

Pembo

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Re: Blepharotomy procedure for dry eye
« Reply #1 on: September 14, 2006, 05:00:27 pm »
Have you tried Restasis? Before I started it, I had to use lacrilube 3-4 times a day. Drops weren't enough. Now 3 months later I use Restasis twice a day and nothing else AND I'm back in my contacts.

Also, did they tell you about the eye weight that goes on the outside??? Here's a link...http://www.meddev-corp.com/1%20product/Eyelid%20Closure%20Products/External%20Weights.2.htm

I haven't tried this but my facail therapist says he has seen great results from people who have used it.

Good luck to you
Surgery June 3, 2004, University Hospitals Cleveland, BAHA received in 2005, Facial Therapy at UPMC 2006