Periocular Mohs Reconstruction by Lateral Canthotomy With Inferior Cantholysis: A Retrospective Study.

Area of Science:

• Dermatologic Surgery
• Oculoplastic Surgery
• Mohs Micrographic Surgery

Background:

• Eyelid defects post-Mohs surgery traditionally referred to specialists.
• Dermatologic surgeons increasingly perform reconstructions with comparable or superior safety.
• Lateral canthotomy with inferior cantholysis is a viable technique for larger lower eyelid defects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the safety and efficacy of lateral canthotomy with inferior cantholysis by dermatologic surgeons.
• To demonstrate acceptable functional and cosmetic outcomes for lower eyelid reconstruction.
• To support dermatologic surgeons in performing complex eyelid repairs.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective study of 8 cases performed by a single dermatologic surgeon (2013-2019).
• Review of patient demographics, operative, and follow-up data.
• Aesthetic outcome assessment by two cosmetic dermatologists using a visual analogue scale on follow-up photographs.

Main Results:

• Analysis included 8 patients (75% male, mean age 74.1 years).
• All defects resulted from basal cell carcinoma excision, with a mean size of 2.4 cm².
• No serious complications or need for reoperation; median cosmetic score was 85.6 ± 11.5.

Conclusions:

• Dermatologic surgeons can safely and effectively reconstruct lower eyelid defects.
• Lateral canthotomy with inferior cantholysis yields satisfactory functional and cosmetic results.
• This technique empowers dermatologic surgeons to manage more complex eyelid reconstructions independently.