Eyelid closure and protection of the eye surface
Incomplete eyelid closure is called lagophthalmos.
Consultation information
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How is incomplete closure assessed?
Describe when symptoms began, differences overnight, earlier eyelid procedures and changes in facial movement. The clinician observes blinking and gentle closure and examines the surface. Symptom intensity alone does not measure corneal damage. K1D1
| Finding | Possible concern | Assessment | Possible approach | Limitation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Incomplete closure | Lids do not fully meet | Blink and corneal examination | Protection matched to cause | A photograph cannot explain everything K1 |
| New facial movement change | Nerve function may be affected | Face and eye assessment | Investigate the medical cause | Not a cosmetic diagnosis K1 |
| Dry-eye symptoms | Tear system may be affected | Surface and tear assessment | Individual treatment plan | Not every dry eye has a lid gap D1 |
The table is not a home diagnostic test. Several causes can coexist; a small-looking gap does not prove that the cornea is safe. K1D1
Which options and limits matter?
Options may include surface-protecting treatment, management of an underlying condition or an eyelid procedure for selected structural problems. Benefits, risks and monitoring should be discussed together. K1D1
This guide does not prescribe drops, ointment, taping or a device. Not every gap needs surgery, and a single intervention cannot promise a permanent solution. K1
How can you prepare for assessment?
List medicines, eye drops, contact-lens use and earlier operations. Older photographs may help explain change over time; do not stop prescribed treatment on your own. K1B1
Which risks deserve attention?
Inadequate protection can lead to corneal damage and infection. Existing dryness and closure matter when planning eyelid surgery; excessive tissue removal can worsen closure. K1B1
What is checked at follow-up?
Follow-up considers the cornea, blinking and changing symptoms as well as the visible gap. Examination findings guide the review interval and when treatment must be reconsidered. K1D1
What are the common questions?
What is lagophthalmos?
Lagophthalmos means incomplete closure. It has several possible causes; previous surgery, eyelid structure and nerve function need to be distinguished. K1
Can a watery eye be dry?
Yes. Dry eye can also cause watering. Tears alone neither prove adequate protection nor establish a particular diagnosis. D1
Is a gap after surgery normal?
Report altered closure after surgery to the treating team. Assuming it is temporary should not delay care for pain, visual change or worsening symptoms. K1B1
Can I tape my eye myself?
Obtain individual instructions from the eye team instead of self-taping or choosing products at random. Incorrect application may not protect the surface. K1
Is a photograph enough?
No. A photograph records appearance but cannot fully assess the tear film, surface or blink. It does not replace examination and follow-up planning. K1D1