Eyelid Reconstruction

Dr. Morse performs surgical reconstruction of both the upper and lower eyelids. The general goals of these surgical procedures include restoration of or improvement in:

• Eyelid function
• Eyelid aesthetics
• Protection of the eye

Indications for Eyelid Reconstruction

There are 2 main reasons for performing eyelid reconstruction: trauma and the removal of an eyelid tumor. Facial trauma is the most common reason for patients to undergo this surgery. Another very common reason is the skin cancer basal cell carcinoma, which causes most eyelid tumors requiring excision (surgical removal).

Eyelid Reconstruction with Dr. Morse

If Dr. Morse recommends upper or lower eyelid reconstruction, he will explain the procedure in depth during your consultation and answer any questions you have. Surgery risks, costs, health insurance, and other important details will be discussed, so you have an adequate understanding of the procedure before you choose to proceed. These procedures are typically performed under general anesthesia.

The Upper Eyelid

A typical defect in the upper eyelid may affect as much as 50 percent of the central eyelid. Because the upper eyelid covers such a large part of the cornea, it is more important for protection of the eye. To surgically reconstruct the upper eyelid, Dr. Morse can utilize a wide variety of techniques. For relatively small defects, a direct closure may be performed in which the inured tissue is excised and tissue is sutured. Other more involved techniques include:

• Lateral cantholysis
• Tenzel Flap
• Sliding or Free Tarsoconjunctival flap
• Temporal forehead flap

The Lower Eyelid

Like the surgery for the upper eyelid, a direct closure procedure may be utilized in which the doctor removes injured tissue and closes the defect. For more involved cases, Dr. Morse may recommend one of the following techniques:

• Lateral antholysis
• Tenzel Rotational Flap
• Modified Hughes procedure
• Free tarsoconjunctival graft
• Rotational cheek flap

What to Expect After Surgery

After your eyelid reconstruction, Dr. Morse may apply antibiotic ointment and a specially designed pressure patch. After the first follow-up appointment the day after surgery, your next appointment will be scheduled within 3 - 7 days. During this time, the pressure patch, sutures and stents for skin grafts will be removed (if applicable). Dr. Morse will provide specific post-operative instructions that you should follow; this may include a prescription for antibiotics and planning for a second stage of your surgery.