Eyebrow and Upper Eyelid Reconstruction With a Double Rhomboid Flap in a Dog

To describe the surgical technique and case outcome of a double rhomboid flap for reconstruction of an eyebrow and medial upper eyelid defect after tumor excision in a dog.

A 2-year-old intact male Golden Retriever was evaluated for a large cutaneous tumor affecting the eyebrow and medial upper eyelid of the right eye. Cytology results were consistent with an epithelial tumor of basilar origin, most likely a trichoblastoma.

The eyebrow and upper eyelid cutaneous mass was marginally removed under general anesthesia. The area was reconstructed with a double rhomboid flap harvested from the forehead and the glabella region.

Histopathology results confirmed the diagnosis of a benign ribbon-type trichoblastoma excised with clean margins (1.2 mm). Transient lagophthalmos of the medial upper eyelid developed post-operatively, with adequate compensation via globe retraction and third eyelid elevation. On final evaluation 3 months after surgery, tumor recurrence was not observed; there was complete resolution of lagophthalmos, and the redirected fur growth pattern did not result in trichiasis.

The double rhomboid flap is an effective technique for surgical reconstruction of large defects in the eyebrow region of canine patients. Lagophthalmos and trichiasis are potential complications of this procedure.