Canthal V-plasty for Floppy Eyelid Surgery

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Oculoplastic Surgery

Background:

• Floppy eyelid syndrome (FES) is characterized by excessive laxity of the tarsal plate, leading to eyelid eversion.
• Surgical correction aims to restore eyelid stability and alleviate symptoms like chronic conjunctivitis and corneal irritation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a modified surgical approach for simultaneous upper and lower eyelid reconstruction in FES patients.
• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a V-shaped lateral canthal incision technique.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective chart review of 7 patients (9 eyes) who underwent surgery between 2011-2012.
• Surgical technique involved simultaneous upper and lower eyelid tightening using a lateral tarsal strip fixation with a V-shaped lateral canthal incision.

Main Results:

• All patients experienced symptom improvement postoperatively.
• Excellent cosmetic outcomes were achieved in 78% of eyes.
• Minor complications included buried lashes and a pyogenic granuloma in one eye each; no secondary surgeries were required.

Conclusions:

• The V-shaped lateral canthal incision is an effective and safe modification for FES surgery.
• This technique provides excellent exposure, preserves canthal architecture, and can be combined with other eyelid procedures.