[Esthetic incisions in traumatology involving the mid-face region]

For exposure of the facial bones and orbital floor, various types of incisions can be employed. For exposing the orbital rim, a subciliary incision may have the disadvantage of producing chronic edema and shortening of the lower lid. The transconjunctival approach combined with lateral canthotomy avoids an external scar and allows sufficient exposure of orbital floor and zygomatico-frontal suture line. The placements of implants and osteosynthesis are then possible. In severe midfacial trauma the authors prefer temporo-temporal incision combined with a conjunctival approach, lateral canthotomy and intraoral access to the zygomatico-maxillary area.