Purpose: The position of the globe relative to the orbital rim plays a significant role in the relationship between the eyelids and the cornea. A prominent globe (relative proptosis) may cause eyelid retraction and exposure keratopathy. Simple horizontal lower eyelid tightening exacerbates eyelid retraction. Optimal correction with an orbital decompression or advancement of the orbital rim entails considerable risk. A technically simpler alternative, placement of an orbital rim onlay implant, was evaluated.
Methods: Fourteen patients with symptomatic relative proptosis underwent placement of a porous polyethylene orbital rim onlay implant.
Results: Lower eyelid position, exposure keratopathy, and ocular discomfort were improved in all patients. Two patients required minor surgical revisions.
Conclusions: Porous polyethylene orbital rim onlay implants are a satisfactory option to treat the sequelae of relative proptosis.