Cheek-midface lifting with lateral canthoplasy for the repair of complex iatrogenic lower eyelid ectropion

Abstract

Purpose: To assess the efficiency and safety of cheek-midface lifting for the ophthalmoplastic reconstructive surgical repair of cicatricial lower eyelid malpositions after previously failed surgery. Methods: In two ophthalmoplastic clinics, 14 eyelids of 13 patients underwent transconjunctival cheek-midface lifting. In a retrospective audit, changes in margin-reflex distance 2 (MRD2), snap-back test, the position of the eyelid after surgery including improving of the presurgical scleral show, the overall patient’s satisfaction as well as complications after surgery were recorded. Results: Following transconjunctival cheek-midface lifting, there was a significant improvement of MRD2, snap-back test, and the scleral show ( p < 0.001, respectively). However, in three patients the scleral show persisted despite improved MRD2. All patients were satisfied with the results of the surgery. No post-surgical long-term complications were developed. Conclusion: Cheek-midface lifting can be a useful technique in severe cicatricial lower eyelid ectropion after previously failed surgery and is a safe and effective reconstructive method for ophthalmic surgeons with good cosmetical results and little postoperative long-term complications.