Metallic-density plate projects over the left orbit, curved to conform to the shape of the upper eyelid.
Case Discussion
In patients with a facial nerve palsy, CN VII function of the orbicularis oculi is impaired leading to incomplete closure of the eyelid (lagophthalmos). Over time this can lead to corneal abrasions.
An ingenious solution is to implant a small weight (typically gold due to its density and biological inertness) in the upper eyelid to allow it to close fully under the effects of gravity (this would therefore not work in orbit or if you sleep upside down).
To keep the eyelid open, levator palpebrae superioris - innervated by the oculomotor nerve (CN III) and postganglionic sympathetics - just needs to work a little harder to overcome this extra weight.
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