Orbital volume augmentation with subperiosteal room-temperature-vulcanized silicone implants: a clinical and histopathologic study

Enophthalmos, a clinical feature of the anophthalmic orbit, often produces a considerable cosmetic deformity. Management of this condition includes surgical volume augmentation with orbital implants. Several types of materials with different shapes have been used with variable success rates. Between 1984 and 1990, we treated 84 anophthalmic patients with room temperature vulcanized (RTV) subperiosteal silicone implants. Adequate volume augmentation and correction of the apparent enophthalmos was achieved in 75 patients. Extended patient follow-up, analysis of data and results, histopathologic assessment of implant capsules, and management of complications have provided a unique opportunity to study the efficacy of the surgery. We present our experience in the management of this condition.