[Two-subunit lower eyelid reconstruction in oncology]

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmic Plastic Surgery
• Reconstructive Surgery

Background:

• Lower eyelid defects pose reconstructive challenges, impacting aesthetics and function.
• Existing methods may have limitations in achieving optimal outcomes for complex defects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a reconstructive strategy for lower eyelid defects involving two aesthetic subunits.
• To evaluate the efficacy of using bilateral upper eyelid dermatochalasis for reconstruction.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing a homolateral heteropalpebral flap combined with a contralateral upper eyelid skin graft for cutaneous coverage.
• Employing a composite tarsoconjunctival graft from healthy eyelids for full-thickness defects.

Main Results:

• The proposed technique provides satisfactory cutaneous coverage for lower eyelid defects.
• Composite tarsoconjunctival grafts ensure functionally competent tissue reconstruction in full-thickness cases.

Conclusions:

• Bilateral upper eyelid dermatochalasis is a viable source for lower eyelid reconstruction.
• This approach offers a reliable solution for restoring both form and function in lower eyelid defects.