Ptosis surgery using Mersilene mesh suspensory material

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Plastic Surgery

Background:

• Ptosis, or drooping of the eyelid, can significantly impair vision and cosmesis.
• Poor or absent levator muscle function presents a surgical challenge for correcting severe ptosis.
• Traditional methods like fascia lata grafts may not be suitable for all patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of Mersilene mesh slings for frontalis suspension in patients with severe blepharoptosis.
• To assess the long-term outcomes and potential complications of using Mersilene mesh in this procedure.

Main Methods:

• A modified Fox's frontalis suspension technique was employed using Mersilene mesh slings.
• The procedure was performed on 23 ptotic eyelids in 22 patients (age 3-35 years) with poor levator function.
• Outcomes were assessed by measuring palpebral fissure height and monitoring for complications during an average 25-month follow-up.

Main Results:

• Preoperative mean palpebral fissure height of 3.1 mm increased to 8.0 mm postoperatively, indicating significant functional improvement.
• No serious complications were observed during the follow-up period.
• One case required reoperation due to a cosmetically inadequate result, with histological examination showing fibrovascular invasion into the mesh.

Conclusions:

• Mersilene mesh is a safe and effective material for frontalis suspension browplasty in cases of severe blepharoptosis with poor levator function.
• It provides a viable alternative when autogenous fascia lata is contraindicated or inappropriate.
• The procedure yields good, permanent results with a low complication rate.