Sickle-shaped transposition flap oriented along relaxed skin tension lines for lower eyelid reconstruction

Abstract

Background The reconstruction of defects in the lower eyelid region is prone to complications such as ectropion and epiphora. This area is also aesthetically important; therefore, operations should be carried out with caution. We introduce a simple and easy surgical approach for the repair of small to moderate-sized lower eyelid defects. Methods A retrospective chart review was performed for all patients who underwent lower eyelid defect reconstruction using a sickle-shaped transposition flap in 2018 or 2019. Photographs were taken at each visit, and the Vancouver Scar Scale was used to evaluate residual marks every 3 months for 1 year. Patients reported their subjective satisfaction levels on a visual analogue scale that ranged from 0 to 10. Results A total of nine patients were included. No flap necrosis, ectropion, epiphora, or other complications were observed. Among the eight patients with skin cancer, no recurrence was noted during the follow-up period. The mean Vancouver Scar Scale scores were 5.50±0.99 at 3 months postoperatively, 4.61±0.85 at 6 months postoperatively, 3.05±0.80 at 9 months postoperatively, and 1.11±0.58 at 12 months postoperatively. The mean overall patient satisfaction rating was 9.11±0.78 (as rated on the visual analogue scale). Conclusions In the reconstruction of lower eyelid defects, the sickle-shaped transposition flap could be a simple, fast, and aesthetically favorable surgical option.