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- Presentation
Tips to Avoid Webbing in the Medial Canthus
Description
The presentation discusses techniques to avoid webbing in the medial canthus region during surgical closure of small defects. The speaker emphasizes that even minor defects can cause distortion and webbing, especially upon eyebrow movement. Attention is drawn to two case examples; in one, a patient opted for granulation, resulting in unfavorable distortion, and in another, a small scar led to webbing when the patient's expression changed. Key recommendations include checking for distortion during eyebrow elevation and maintaining proper flap tension during suturing. The speaker prefers transposition flaps, often using cheek skin as it better matches the texture of the medial canthus compared to nasal skin. It's crucial to place secondary defects in alignment with resting skin tension lines for aesthetic integration. Success is illustrated with cases showing no webbing four months post-surgery, highlighting the importance of careful flap design and placement. In instances where cheek skin is not an option, nasal skin may be used, but considerations regarding potential ectropion are necessary. The presentation concludes by reaffirming the importance of meticulous technique in achieving optimal closure outcomes.
View moreConclusions
- Granulation can lead to webbing and distortion regardless of defect size in the medial canthus area.
- Defects should always be assessed with the patient's eyebrows raised to check for potential stretching or distortion.
- Frequent tension checks are essential during suturing to prevent webbing and ensure a smooth contour.
- Transposition flaps are preferred in this region to redirect tension away from the medial canthus.
- The cheek skin is the ideal donor site as it closely matches the texture of the medial canthal skin.
- Closure of the secondary defect must align with resting skin tension lines or cosmetic subunit boundaries to minimize visibility.
- Avoid pulling on the eyelid margin during closure to prevent complications.
- Baker, S. (2014). Local Flaps in Facial Reconstruction (3rd ed.). Elsevier - OHCE.
- Bolognia, J. (2012). Dermatology: Vol. 3rd ed. Saunders.