Internal Fixation Method Using EZ-Tcon for Transconjunctival Fat Repositioning: Clinical Outcomes and Efficacy.

Area of Science:

• Oculoplastics
• Facial Plastic Surgery
• Aesthetic Surgery

Background:

• Transconjunctival fat repositioning is the standard for tear trough deformity correction.
• Current fixation methods include internal fixation (IF) and externalized percutaneous suture (EPS) techniques, each with limitations.
• A novel IF technique utilizing the devised EZ-Tcon needle was developed.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and evaluate a new internal fixation (IF) technique for transconjunctival fat repositioning using the EZ-Tcon needle.
• To compare the outcomes of the EZ-Tcon IF technique with the conventional externalized percutaneous suture (EPS) technique.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective review of 545 patients with primary tear trough deformity undergoing transconjunctival fat repositioning.
• Patients were divided into two cohorts: conventional EPS technique (cohort 1) and new EZ-Tcon IF technique (cohort 2).
• Post-operative complications and aesthetic results were assessed using a four-grade system.

Main Results:

• Cohort 2 (EZ-Tcon IF) demonstrated significantly lower rates of conspicuous scars, re-operations, and overall complications compared to cohort 1 (EPS).
• 88.9% of cohort 2 achieved grade 0 or I (no or mild deformity) aesthetic outcomes.
• The rate of excellent aesthetic outcomes (≥2 grade improvement) was significantly higher in cohort 2 (p < 0.001).

Conclusions:

• The EZ-Tcon IF technique offers advantages of both conventional IF and EPS methods.
• This new technique is a safe and reliable option for transconjunctival fat repositioning, yielding satisfactory aesthetic results with reduced complications.
• The EZ-Tcon needle facilitates improved outcomes in tear trough deformity correction.