Background: Incisional double-eyelid blepharoplasty is widely applied because of its extensive indications and robust results. The orbicularis-levator fixation method is an incisional approach that provides stronger adhesion than traditional techniques. However, there remains the risk of postoperative relapse or suture spitting out.
Methods: The authors introduced a modified technique for supratarsal crease formation. When necessary soft tissue removal was completed, the orbicularis oculi muscle was anchored on the tarsus. Then the muscle edges near canthus were reattached to prevent muscle retraction. For skin closure, the skin-pretarsal fascia-skin maneuver was adopted to enhance cicatricial adhesion.
Results: Six hundred and fifty-nine patients underwent double eyelidplasty by the same surgeon using this modified technique. Patients were followed up from 2 to 38 months, with a mean period of 15 months. Short-term complications included mild edema, bruising or reddish change of the upper eyelid, yet all gradually relieved in 6-8 weeks. Fourteen cases of palpebral fold asymmetry and nine cases of unsatisfactory fold formation near the inner canthus were encountered, and all the defects had been well improved by revision surgeries. Ninety-five percent of the patients were satisfied with the long-term outcomes, which showed as natural and well-defined palpebral folds without scar hypertrophy, suture spitting out or crease depression. Besides, no supratarsal crease drooping or disappearing was observed 3 years postoperatively.
Conclusions: The authors introduced an orbicularis-tarsus fixation method for upper eyelid blepharoplasty. It is a reliable technique that enables high feasibility and long-lasting result, and with lower risk of suture spitting out.
Level of evidence iv: This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .
Keywords: Blepharoplasty; Orbicularis-tarsus fixation; Technique modification.