Clinical effects of upper eyelid blepharoplasty using the dermis orbicularis muscle flap technique

Objective To develop a new technique of upper eyelid blepharoplasty for reducing surgical complications and improving cosmetic results. Methods In this study, 721 cases (9 males and 712 females, range in age 17-32 years) with single eyelid were performed with double eyelid blepharoplasty using this method (dermis orbicularis muscle flap technique, DOMF), 698 cases of which were simultaneously operated with epicanthoplastic surgery. In the operation, DOMF was harvested in the dermis edge in lower incision margin. The flap was sutured to levatoraponeuros at the superior border of the tarsus. Patients were followed up for three months to three years. Results It was concluded that unfavorable results included low fold in 12 cases, relapse in 3 cases, asymmetric crease in 4 cases, puffy eyelids in 5 cases, and sunken appearance in 4 cases. The physicians and patients were satified with the results. The eyelid appeared smooth without fold depression on downward gaze or eyes closed, and it was gentle and not overly puff as eyes opening. Conclusions The DOMF technique mimics the movement of congenital crease fold, which is easy to perform, creating a delicate, firm and smooth upper lid orientation. Key words: Blepharoplasty; Surgery, plastic; Dermis; Immobilization; Orbicularis muscle flap