Lower eyelid reconstruction preserving symmetry of bilateral palpebral fissure

Summary

A method for lower eyelid reconstruction is reported. The lower lid defect is reconstructed with a composite flap including skin and orbicularis oculi muscle from the ipsilateral upper eyelid. To cover the donor eyelid defect, a composite graft (skin and the orbicularis oculi muscle) is taken from the contralateral upper lid. The width of the graft is half of that of the flap so that the resulting contour of the bilateral palpebral fissures is symmetrical. The donor scar is invisible being placed in the natural lid fold. The color and texture match of the reconstructed lower lid is excellent. This is a simple technique which can be done as an outpatient.