Eyelid Reconstruction

Eyelid reconstruction is indicated in the setting of trauma, following cancer excision, for congenital deformities, and for age-related degeneration. As the eyelids have a large impact on the appearance of the eyes, the aesthetic result of reconstruction is as important as the restoration of eyelid function in ocular surface protection and lubrication. In this chapter, the authors discuss the operative care of patients with defects of varying extent involving the upper and lower eyelids, as well as common degenerative conditions such as eyelid margin malrotation and eyelid malposition, such as ptosis, retraction, entropion, and ectropion. Planning for repair should begin during the initial examination. The surgeon can evaluate the size of an eyelid lesion and attempt to predict the size of the possible defect after excision.