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Facial Plast Surg 2020; 36(02): 166-175
DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1709515
Original Article
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Eyelid Complications Associated with Surgery for Periocular Cutaneous Malignancies

Authors

  • Anaïs L. Carniciu

    1   Department of Ophthalmology, Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan

  • Nina Jovanovic 

    2   Department of Ophthalmology, Canton Hospital Zenica, Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina

  • Alon Kahana

    1   Department of Ophthalmology, Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
    3   Consultants in Ophthalmic and Facial Plastic Surgery, Southfield, Michigan
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
15 May 2020 (online)

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Abstract

Periocular skin is highly prone to malignancies, especially basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas. Because of the complex anatomy and eye-protecting functions of the periocular tissues, treatment of these cancers requires special considerations. Mohs micrographic surgery is usually the treatment of choice, whenever possible, in order to enhance margin control while limiting collateral damage to nearby normal structures. Cancer excision, whether by Mohs or other techniques, will leave a complex defect that requires careful anatomical and functional reconstruction. This study presents some of the challenges of treating periocular skin cancer and associated reconstructive surgery and provides an intellectual framework for addressing these challenges. The key topics are adherence to anatomical landmarks and aesthetic units, proper distribution of tension, and matching the correct reconstructive approach, that is, type of flap or graft, to the defect at hand. This review is not meant to be exhaustive, but it will provide both basic and advanced considerations.

Keywords

eyelid - basal cell - squamous cell - Mohs - eyelid retraction