Full-thickness eyelid reconstruction with a single upper eyelid orbicularis oculi musculocutaneous flap.

Abstract

Eyelid tumors affecting the eye in general prove to be highly challenging to plastic surgeons. Reconstruction must be precisely detailed when dealing with lesions that primarily affect the skin but progressively the eyelid margin. Conjunctiva invasion damage is estimated to one-third or less in size when compared with the damage caused on the anterior wall of the eyelid. Although serial techniques for extent and location of full-thickness eyelid reconstruction have been detailed, the orbicularis oculi muscle can be easily raised as an island musculocutaneous flap. The eyelid's bilaminar wall is recreated by folding the flap on itself and full-thickness eyelid reconstruction is achieved sacrificing minimal accessory tissue. The small cutaneous section in contact with the globe becomes tolerable. As no single method for full-thickness eyelid reconstruction applies to extent and location to a wide range of defects, the proposed flap is safe, reliable, and beneficial to oculoplastic surgery.