Prevention of Lower Eyelid Ectropion Using Noninsional Suspension Sutures after Blepharoplasty

Abstract

Lower eyelid blepharoplasty is frequently performed as a midface anti-aging treatment. With a growing interest in aging, the frequency of this type of surgery has also increased. However, depending on the type and pattern of the lower eyelid, extensive, frequent surgeries may be required [1,2]. In addition, such complications as ectropion or scleral exposure may occur following lower eyelid blepharoplasty or midface lift [3]. Therefore, we performed both snap back and distraction tests prior to performing lower eyelid blepharoplasty to evaluate lower lid tonicity. We attempted to predict patients who were postoperatively vulnerable to ectropion in order to prevent its postoperative occurrence [4,5]. In patients at risk of developing ectropion postoperatively, we attempted to prevent its occurrence using a nonincisional suspension suture (NISS) technique. We applied this method to patients who were at risk of developing ectropion following lower eyelid blepharoplasty, obtaining satisfactory outcomes. Here, we report our treatment outcomes with a review of the literature.