Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 17, 2026
03:59
Surgical Correction for Pediatric Epiblepharon and Trichiasis
Published on: July 8, 2025
736
Subtarsal Versus Transconjunctival Approach-Esthetic and Functional Long-Term Experience
Lisa Strobel1, Frank Hölzle2, Dieter Riediger3
1Assistant Dentist, Dental Practice Dr Schumacher, Unna, Germany.
Summary
The subtarsal incision is a safe and esthetically favorable surgical approach for exploring the orbital floor and infraorbital rim. This study found comparable complication rates and favorable long-term outcomes compared to the transconjunctival approach.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Plastic Surgery
- Facial Reconstructive Surgery
Background:
- The subtarsal incision and transconjunctival approach are common for orbital floor and infraorbital rim exploration.
- Limited data exist on the long-term esthetic and functional outcomes of the subtarsal approach.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the clinical results of the subtarsal approach.
- To compare the subtarsal approach with the transconjunctival procedure regarding outcomes and complications.
Main Methods:
- A standardized follow-up was conducted on 45 patients (30 subtarsal, 15 transconjunctival) 6-30 months post-surgery.
- Complications (paresthesia, epiphora, foreign body sensation) and scar formation (modified Vancouver Scar Scale) were assessed.
- Photographic documentation and blinded evaluations by experts and nonexperts were performed.
Main Results:
- Complication rates were comparable between the subtarsal and transconjunctival approaches (P=.29).
- Subtarsal approach resulted in unremarkable scarring in 93.3% of cases (mVSS mean 1.7/10).
- No significant differences in scar visibility or asymmetry were noted between the two approaches.
Conclusions:
- The subtarsal approach is a safe surgical method.
- The subtarsal approach demonstrates favorable esthetic outcomes.
- This study supports the subtarsal approach for orbital floor and infraorbital rim surgery.
