Eyelid reconstruction using a monopedicle flap and buccal mucosa: report of 15 cases

A method is described for eyelid reconstruction to close a large defect involving the lid margin using a myocutaneous flap over a free buccal mucosal graft. The procedure was performed on 15 patients over a three-year period. Thirteen patients had loss of lower lid tissue alone. One included the lateral canthus and one over 50% of both upper and lower lids. Results were good in all patients except the one with extensive reconstruction of both lids. Advantages over other techniques of lid reconstruction include ease of surgery, adaptability of the technique to any eyelid site, good tissue match and the need for only a one-stage procedure.