[Eyelid surgery in children with Down's syndrome]

To establish the best method of surgical correction of epicanthus in children with Down's syndrome.

18 patients underwent eyelid surgery. In 2 cases Spaeth's technique was used, in 5 cases-Blair-Brown's technique, and in 11 cases-Mustarde's technique. In 10 patients the correction of oblique position of palpebral fissure was additionally carried out.

Comparative analysis showed that postoperative effects were good or excellent, and that Mustarde's technique seemed the best method for correction of epicanthus. The optimal time for this procedure was also assigned (3-6 years of age). Eyelid surgery connected with other plastic operations performed in children with Down's syndrome ensures blurring of mongoloid features. It has an advantageous effect on child's acceptation by others and on the results of psychosomatic rehabilitation as well.