INTRODUCTION: The low resistance of the palpebral tissues to the retractable forces of postoperative scarring can predispose patients to undesirable surgical outcomes. Among the more effective techniques for solving this issue are the periosteal flaps. This report aims to present a technique for canthopexy and tarsal reconstitution using a periosteal flap to obtain a consistent and definitive reinforcement of the tarsal ligament and its continuity to the inner face of the sidewall of the orbit. METHODS: From July 2009 to December 2012, 49 patients underwent canthopexy with flap rotation of the arcus marginalis of the inferior tarsus. The functional and aesthetic results were evaluated together with the presence of complications. RESULTS: Eighty-four cantopexies and tarsal reinforcements using a periosteal flap were performed in 49 patients. No complications such as hematoma, infection, or necrosis were observed. Complete remission of the preoperative signals was observed in 45 (91.8%) patients, while the other 4 (8.2%) showed partial remission on at least one of the sides related to prior ocularis paralysis. CONCLUSIONS: Canthopexy reinforced by a tarsal periosteal flap provides good tarsal ligament reconstitution with appropriate positioning of the outer corner and good contact of the eyelid with the ocular globe.
Blepharoplasty; Ectropion; Eyelids; Periosteum
