Combined resection of preseptal fat and partial retro-orbicularis oculus fat: a method for refractory upper eyelid heaviness correction

Abstract

OBJECTIVE To investigate an operative method of combined resection of preseptal fat: and partial retro-orbicularis oculus fat (ROOF) for correction of upper eyelid heaviness, and evaluate the efficacy and safety of the method. Preseptal fat lies widely under the orbicularis oculi in the upper eyelid, and retro-orbicularis oculus fat (ROOF) lies in the lateral supraorbital area. Combined resection of preseptal fat and partial ROOF was performed in patients selected by examination. The efficacy and safety were evaluated by follow-up study. From May 2011 to July 2013, 38 selected patients received the treatment with 3 months to 28 months follow up. The heaviness of upper eyelid improved in all cases. One patient developed postoperative hematoma, and another patient had a transient numbness over the lateral upper brow region. 37 patients were satisfied with the result. Combined resection of preseptal fat and partial ROOF was effective in reducing the heaviness of upper eyelid, without major complications. The operative method should be an important adjunct for selected patients undergoing blepharoplasty.