Cosmetic eyelid surgery and the problem eyelid

The human eyelid is an amazingly complex structure that is responsible for protecting, moisturizing, and reconstituting the external surface of the eye. Compromise of any of the tarsoligamentous supporting structures of the eyelids can result in eyelid malposition, corneal compromise, and even blindness. Failure to recognize these abnormalities in patients seeking cosmetic eyelid surgery can lead to disastrous results. The most common structural eyelid abnormalities encountered in patients seeking cosmetic eyelid surgery and prophylactic and reconstructive surgical techniques to deal with these difficult problems are discussed.