Is It Worth Using Botulinum Toxin Injections for the Management of Mild to Moderate Blepharoptosis?

[BACKGROUND] Mild ptosis can be aesthetically displeasing for patients, especially in unilateral cases. However, some patients do not desire to undergo a surgical repair. Botulinum toxin injection might be an option in these cases.

[OBJECTIVES] The authors sought to objectively examine the effects of botulinum neurotoxin A (BoNT-A) injection into the orbicularis oculi muscle in the management of blepharoptosis.

[METHODS] In this prospective study, 8 patients with mild to moderate ptosis received application of BoNT-A in the pretarsal orbicularis oculi muscle. Standardized photographs were obtained at baseline and 2, 4, and 24 weeks. Digital image analysis software (Image J) was employed for objective analysis. Primary outcomes were the margin reflex distance-1 and qualitative changes on a 4-point scale.

[RESULTS] A significant increase in the margin reflex distance-1 on the treated side (baseline: 2.00 ± 1.13 mm; week 2: 2.52 ± 1.13 mm; P = 0.003) and a significant reduction (baseline: 3.23 ± 0.92 mm, week 2: 3.07 ± 0.96; P = 0.0268) on the contralateral eyelid were observed at week 2. After 24 weeks, the effect of BoNT-A diminished, and no significant difference from baseline was observed in either eyelid. Subjectively, 87.5% of patients reported improvement in their eyelid ptosis.

[CONCLUSIONS] Botulinum toxin injection in the pretarsal orbicularis oculi muscle can be an option to temporarily manage ptosis in patients who do not desire to undergo a surgical procedure. This alternative treatment can also be employed to manage temporary ptosis induced by botulinum toxin diffusion to the levator aponeurosis.