Bidirectional tightening of the anterior lamella for involutional lower eyelid entropion

Involutional entropion of the lower eyelid is commonly encountered in the elderly population. An ideal surgical method is supposed to address the underlying horizontal and vertical lower lid laxity simultaneously. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of bidirectional tightening of the anterior lamella to correct involutional lower lid entropion.

A prospective, noncomparative interventional case series was conducted from January 2017 to June 2021. Patients with involutional lower eyelid entropion received procedures combining lateral canthus-sparing orbicularis suspension with marginal rotating sutures to tighten the anterior lamella horizontally and vertically. The aesthetic appearance, postoperative complications, and patient satisfaction were evaluated.

A total of 50 patients (56 eyelids) with a mean age of 73.1 ± 10.5 years were included. The mean follow-up period was 23.7 ± 17.1 months. All patients had immediate resolution of entropion and associated ocular symptoms. There were no recurrences or other major postoperative complications. Mild temporary ectropion was observed in 4 patients (4 eyelids) without the need for surgical intervention.

The procedure of bidirectional anterior lamellar tightening restores the tension balance of eyelid margin. It provides a simple, successful, and less invasive option to treat involutional lower eyelid entropion.