Paralytic lagophthalmos left eye, upper and lower eyelids

This code signifies the inability to completely close the left upper and lower eyelids due to paralysis of the orbicularis oculi muscle. This paralytic condition results in exposure of the ocular surface, potentially leading to dryness, irritation, and corneal damage.

Apply this code when documentation specifies paralytic lagophthalmos affecting the left eye, involving both the upper and lower eyelids. This typically occurs secondary to facial nerve palsy (e.g., Bell's palsy, trauma, tumor) impacting the innervation of the orbicularis oculi. Documentation should clearly indicate the laterality and the paralytic etiology.

• Ensure documentation specifies "paralytic" lagophthalmos; other forms of lagophthalmos (e.g., cicatricial, mechanical) are coded differently.
• Verify laterality (left eye) and involvement of both upper and lower eyelids.
• Always code the underlying cause of the facial nerve paralysis (e.g., G51.0 for Bell's palsy) as the primary diagnosis, with this code as a secondary diagnosis.