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Horizontal skin wound closure in full thickness eyelid excision
Paul Rosser1, Austin McCormick
1Department of Ophthalmology, Greenlane Clinical Centre, Greenlane West, Greenlane, Auckland, New Zealand. paul@eyelid.co.nz
Clinical & Experimental Ophthalmology
|January 9, 2009
Summary
A new surgical technique for eyelid defects offers improved cosmetic results. This method creates a horizontal scar parallel to skin tension lines, reducing visibility compared to traditional triangular closures.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Plastic Surgery
- Dermatology
Background:
- Direct closure of full-thickness eyelid margin defects is a common surgical challenge.
- The standard pentagonal excision method can result in cosmetically undesirable scars.
- Scars perpendicular to relaxed skin tension lines are often more noticeable.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present an alternative surgical technique for closing full-thickness eyelid margin defects.
- To achieve a more aesthetically pleasing outcome with reduced scar visibility.
- To minimize cosmetic disfigurement following eyelid defect repair.
Main Methods:
- A horizontal subciliary incision is made, extended on either side of the defect.
- Undermining of the surrounding tissue is performed.
- Minimal skin excision followed by direct closure is employed.
Main Results:
- The described technique results in a horizontal linear subciliary scar.
- This scar runs parallel to the relaxed skin tension lines.
- The alternative method offers improved cosmetic outcomes compared to pentagonal excision.
Conclusions:
- This horizontal subciliary closure technique provides a cosmetically superior alternative for full-thickness eyelid margin defects.
- The technique minimizes scar visibility by aligning with natural skin tension lines.
- It offers a valuable option for plastic surgeons and ophthalmologists seeking optimal aesthetic results.
