The Anatomy and Clinical Application of Preorbital Septum Fiber

Abstract

Abstract Background In patients with mild superior sulcus deformity, pseudoptosis, or multiple eyelid folds, several bulky fibers can be found anterior to the orbital septum. These fibers, called preorbital septum fibers, may constrict protrusion of the fat pad and movement of the levator palpebrae muscle. Objectives In this study, the authors illustrated the anatomy of these fibers and described the double-eyelid procedure to correct pseudoptosis, mild superior sulcus deformity, and multiple eyelid folds, which may be caused by these fibers. Methods The bulky preorbital septum fibers were dissected and severed during upper blepharoplasty to release the orbital septum fat pad and levator palpebrae muscle. This procedure was performed between January 2016 and January 2018 in 56 patients with distinct preorbital septum fibers. Results Of the 56 patients, 38 displayed mild to moderate upper eyelid depression and multiple eyelids, and 18 displayed pseudoptosis. Bulky fibers that existed in the superficial layer of the orbital septum were all dissected and removed. After 6 months’ recovery, the superior sulcus deformity improved in all patients. No recurrence of multiple eyelids was observed. Patients with pseudoptosis showed a notable release of their upper eyelids. Conclusions This is the first time to our knowledge that the preorbital septum fibers are described as a distinct anatomical structure. They are clinically important in upper eyelid anatomy and the improvement of sunken upper eyelids or pseudoptosis. The combination of blepharoplasty with release of these fibers is easy to perform and promote. Level of Evidence: 4