Chennai, 22nd January 2025: Gleneagles Hospital Chennai has achieved a groundbreaking medical milestone by performing a complex surgical procedure to treat one of the rarest eye disorders in the world—Benign Essential Blepharospasm (BEB)—compounded by the even rarer Apraxia of Eyelid Opening (ALO). This unique surgery was performed by Dr. Ravindra Mohan, renowned Oculoplastic Surgeon at Gleneagles Hospital Chennai. The surgery has transformed the life of a retired Indian Forest Service officer from Jaipur after four years of immense struggle and despair.
The patient’s routine life had become a relentless challenge. Once an athletic and active individual, he found himself unable to carry out even basic tasks such as walking outdoor or climbing stairs without help. The uncontrollable eyelid spasms and inability to open his eyes robbed him of his independence and confidence, leading to social isolation. Over four years, he and his wife visited more than a dozen hospitals, consulted leading specialists across the country, and explored every possible treatment, including botulinum toxin injections and even a surgery—none of which offered any significant relief.
Patient reluctantly agreed to consult Dr. Ravindra Mohan in Chennai after his eye surgeon friend from Jaipur intervened. His wife persistently cajoling him to make the journey as he was disheartened with repeated disappointments, he finally boarded the flight to Chennai with his wife. During the consultation, Dr. Ravindra Mohan meticulously analysed the patient symptoms and medical history, uncovering the presence of ALO alongside BEB—a diagnosis that had possibly eluded all previous specialists. The coexistence of these two rare conditions posed a unique challenge, as traditional treatments were ineffective.
This was one of the most complex clinical challenges I have encountered in three decades of specialised work in eyelid surgery. BEB causes uncontrollable eyelid spasms, while ALO results in the freezing of eyelids, making it impossible to open them at times. Treating both conditions together in a Safe way required a highly customized surgical approach,” explained Dr. Ravindra Mohan.
The four-hour surgery, performed under general anaesthesia, involved a bilateral orbicularis myectomy to remove the muscles responsible for forceful eyelid closure. Dr. Mohan combined this with an innovative technique to address ALO, inserting silicon rods as slings to connect the upper eyelids to the forehead muscles. This allowed the patient to regain control over his eyelids by raising his eyebrows and wrinkling his forehead.
“Precision and innovation were key to this dual approach. While the myectomy resolved the spasms, the sling technique provided the patient with the ability to manage ALO. We ensured the levator palpebrae superioris muscles were preserved to maintain natural eyelid closure,” Dr. Mohan elaborated.
The surgery was a resounding success, and the patient recovery was steady. Within weeks, he was able to resume activities he once thought he had lost forever. His confidence soared to the extent that he expressed a desire to travel independently to Chennai for follow-ups, though his wife ultimately convinced him to allow her to accompany him.
“This case is a testament to the resilience of patients and the power of collaboration between advanced surgical expertise and a dedicated support team,” said Dr. Nageswar Rao, CEO, Gleneagles Hospital Chennai. We are proud of our doctors who led the surgical and post-operative care teams. Identifying and offering the right solution to the problem that the patient faced for over years proves our hospital’s multidisciplinary collaboration. Every member played a critical role in achieving this success. It reflects the hospital’s commitment to providing world-class care for even the most challenging conditions. “Added Dr Nageshwar Rao
“We continue to set benchmarks in advanced medical care, particularly for rare and complex disorders. This landmark surgery underscores the institution’s unwavering dedication to innovation and patient-centric care, offering hope to individuals nationwide,” he added.
“For years, my condition left me helpless and isolated. Even simple activities like playing games or climbing stairs were impossible. Thanks to Dr. Mohan, and his incredible team, I have regained my independence and confidence. I cannot express how grateful I am for their unwavering dedication.” said the patient.
His wife, who stood by him every step of the way, remarked on the emotional toll the condition had taken on their lives and how this surgery had brought them a newfound sense of hope and joy. This landmark achievement underscores Gleneagles Hospital Chennai’s commitment to addressing the most challenging medical conditions with innovation and patient-centric care. The success of this surgery offers hope to others battling similar disorders and reinforces the hospital’s position as a leader in advanced medical care.
