Percutaneous Lower Blepharoplasty: A Novel Technique in Lower Eyelid Aesthetics

J Craniofac Surg. 2020 Mar/Apr;31(2):e140-e144. doi: 10.1097/SCS.0000000000006076.

Abstract

Background: More preservative approaches are being adopted in periorbital surgery each day. To avoid the possible complications of transcutaneous and transconjunctival blepharoplasty, the author has developed the safe and simple "Percutaneous Lower Blepharoplasty" technique, which he has been performing since 2008. The technique consists of the removal and transfer of lower orbital fat pads through 4-mm skin incisions with minimal dissection.

Patients and methods: The study is designed as a retrospective analysis of the operations done by the author from 2008 to 2018. The author performed 297 percutaneous lower blepharoplasty operations alone or in combination with tear-trough deformity correction, pinch skin excision, and/or carbon dioxide laser application. The video of the technique is demonstrated in the supplemental digital content.

Results: The patients were followed for an average of 58.8 months. All the patients were satisfied with the result. There were no retractions or scleral show seen. The only complication was chemosis in 1 patient that subsided with steroid ointment.

Conclusion: Percutaneous lower blepharoplasty is a novel technique that has the following advantages: Simple and fast, low complication rates, good cosmetic outcomes, tear trough deformity correction, better estimation of fat amount to be removed, and minimal dissection and avoidance of violation of lamellar structures. It can be performed safely alone or in combination with pinch excision and/or fractional laser resurfacing.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Blepharoplasty* / methods
  • Dermatologic Surgical Procedures
  • Esthetics
  • Eyelids / surgery*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lasers, Gas
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Sclera / surgery