EVOLUTION OF THE LATERAL CANTHOPLASTY - TECHNIQUES AND INDICATIONS

Lateral canthoplasty is a useful method to restore eyelid function and to protect the ocular-surfaces. Tile success of the procedure depends on the proper analysis of periorbital anatomy as it relates to the sp ecific indication for lateral canthoplasty. We report tile experience with 1565 lateral canthoplasties with emphasis on the evaluation of ne wer techniques that better address anatomic and functional requirement s. Between 1981 and 1994, 1565 lateral canthoplasties were performed i n 684 patients. Of these, 1369 ''reconstructive'' lateral canthoplasti es were performed in 586 patients and 196 ''cosmetic'' lateral canthop lasties were performed in 98 patients. All operations were performed b y a single surgeon (Jelks), and follow-up ranged from 1 to 14 years. T ile evolution of the operative technique for lateral canthoplasty has been toward an operation that corresponds with the anatomy of the indi vidual. Indications for tile procedure include lateral canthal dystopi a, horizontal lid laxity ectropion, entropion, lid margin eversion, li d retraction with or without soft-tissue deficiency, and aesthetic imp rovement. The types of procedures performed will be reviewed in detail . The evaluation of the newer forms of lateral canthoplasty as unique reconstructive tools and as adjuncts to aesthetic surgery will be disc ussed.