Using bipedicled myocutaneous Tripier flap to correct ectropion after excision of lower eyelid basal cell carcinoma

Many techniques have been described for correcting ectropion, but when the ectropion follows skin cancer excision, only a technique that replaces missing skin should be used. The bipedicled Tripier flap tends to give some excess bulk at each end but gives an excellent correction of ectropion. The aim of this study was to apply musculocutaneous bipedicled Tripier flap from upper lid for correction of ectropion due to previous excision of lower-lid malignancies and evaluate its outcome. This was a prospective case-series study. In this study, 15 patients (6 women, 9 men), ranging from 35 to 72 years old (mean, 51 years) underwent operation with Tripier flap for reconstruction of ectropion because of basal cell carcinoma (BCC) resection. In patients with ectropion, Tripier flap with or without ear or nasal septal cartilage was used for reconstruction of deformities 3 months after lower-lid reconstruction with local flaps. All patients were satisfied, and ectropion was corrected in all cases. There were no complications such as dry eye or corneal abrasion after operation. Also, we had not any case of ischemic flap. We suggest that Tripier flap is one of the best methods for reconstruction of lower-lid retraction or ectropion. This is a desirable method, functionally and aesthetically.