Suspending sutures in blepharoplasty.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmic plastic surgery
• Facial cosmetic surgery

Background:

• Lower eyelid blepharoplasty can lead to complications such as scleral show and inferomedial displacement of the lateral canthus.
• Flap suspension techniques are commonly used to prevent these issues by adjusting skin excision.
• Additional measures may be needed to further mitigate these risks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the technical aspects and outcomes of lateral canthopexy using permanent suspending sutures.
• To evaluate the efficacy of this technique in preventing post-blepharoplasty lower eyelid complications.

Main Methods:

• Lateral canthopexy performed using permanent sutures to shorten the lateral canthal tendon.
• Sutures placed from the inferomedial aspect to the superolateral aspect of the tendon.
• Anchoring sutures to the periosteum inside the orbit.

Main Results:

• The technique helps prevent scleral show, upper lid sloping, and inferomedial displacement of the lateral canthus.
• Clinical experience suggests it is a useful adjunct to standard blepharoplasty techniques.
• Potential drawbacks include increased swelling, inflammation, and a longer recovery period.

Conclusions:

• Lateral canthopexy with permanent suspending sutures is an effective method to prevent common lower eyelid complications after blepharoplasty.
• While generally successful, surgeons should be aware of the potential for increased swelling and a prolonged recuperative period.