Anterior-Approach Versus Posterior-Approach Levator Advancement Surgery in Aponeurotic Ptosis

To compare the effectiveness and complications of levator reinsertion in aponeurotic ptosis surgery using anterior and posterior approaches.

Seventy-eight (36 females, 42 males) patients with acquired aponeurotic ptosis were evaluated. Pre- and postoperative margin reflex distance, symmetry of height, contour and skin crease, corneal problems, and lagophthalmus were evaluated and compared between the 2 groups. Independent and paired samples t-test, Pearson Chi-square, and Fisher exact test were used to evaluate the results.

The anterior approach was performed on 43 eyelids and the posterior approach was performed on 35 eyelids. The mean age of the anterior-approach group was 62.1 ± 11 years, and posterior-approach group was 50.1 ± 15.1 years, respectively (P < 0.001). The male-female ratio was 28/15 in the anterior-approach group, and 14/21 in the posterior approach group (P = 0.027). The success rate of the anterior approach was 69.8% and the posterior approach was 57.1% (P = 0.248). The mean margin reflex distance change was statistically significant in both anterior- and posterior-approach techniques (P < 0.001, P < 0.001, respectively). Three (6.9%) patients in the anterior-approach group and 11 (31.4%) in the posterior-approach group required reoperation (P = 0.005). Lagophthalmus rates were similar (3 eyes in the anterior versus 7 eyes in the posterior group, P = 0.103).

Both anterior- and posterior-approaches are effective and safe techniques for aponeurotic ptosis treatment. The posterior approach seems to be preferred by female and younger patients because there is no undesirable scar formation although it has the disadvantage of higher rates of reoperation.