Aesthetic Unit-Based Reconstruction of Periorbital Defects

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Plastic Surgery
• Reconstructive Surgery

Background:

• Periorbital area reconstructions are complex due to the delicate nature of the eyelids.
• Defect etiology and location significantly influence surgical planning and technique selection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To retrospectively analyze periorbital reconstructions in 23 patients.
• To determine sociodemographic characteristics, defect etiologies, and locations.
• To evaluate reconstruction options, outcomes, and clinical experience.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective chart review of 23 patients undergoing periorbital reconstruction (January 2010 - March 2013).
• Analysis included patient demographics, defect causes, and locations based on Spinelli aesthetic subunits.
• Surgical methods were documented and correlated with defect characteristics.

Main Results:

• Various reconstructive techniques were employed based on defect size and location (e.g., primary closure, Fricke flap, skin grafts, Tenzel flap, paramedian forehead flap, Mustarde flap, glabellar flap, McGregor flap).
• Specific flap and graft choices were detailed for defects in different zones (1-4) and percentages.
• Reconstruction strategies were tailored to defect severity and aesthetic subunit involvement.

Conclusions:

• A reconstructive algorithm based on eyelid aesthetic units is effective.
• Utilizing local healthy tissues for reconstruction leads to functionally and aesthetically acceptable results.
• This approach optimizes outcomes for periorbital defect repair.