Evaluation of Periorbital Tissues in Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate periorbital tissue alterations including eyelid laxity and eyelash ptosis in patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Based on polysomnography, 96 eyes of 48 patients with moderate/severe OSAS (Group 1) and 44 eyes of 22 patients with simple snoring (Group 2) were enrolled. Comprehensive eye examination along with eyelid laxity measurements including vertical and anterior distraction, presence of dermatochalasis, interpalpebral distance, and levator function were assessed. The presence and severity of eyelash ptosis were also noted. RESULTS: The mean ages of Group 1 and Group 2 were 49.9±11.4 (range: 26-67) and 50.6±8.9 (range: 27-69) years, respectively (p=0.557). The mean vertical and anterior distraction distances in Group 1 (13.3±4.1 [range, 6-27] mm and 7.4±2.1 [range, 3-13.5] mm, respectively) were significantly higher than in Group 2 (p<0.05). Dermatochalasis and eyelash ptosis were found to be significantly more frequent in Group 1 (52.1% and 81.3%, respectively). The severity of eyelash ptosis was also higher in OSAS (p<0.05). No significant difference in interpalpebral distance or levator muscle function was detected. CONCLUSION: In patients with severe OSAS, eyelid laxity was more prominent and eyelash ptosis was more frequent and severe.