Using lower eyelid fascial slings for recalcitrant burn ectropion

Burns of the lower eyelid represent a difficult management problem. Even wi th skin grafting, scarring and contraction can result in ectropion. This co ndition creates a marked aesthetic deformity, poses a risk of corneal expos ure, and jeopardizes the patient's vision. Historically, full-thickness ski n grafts and tarsorrhaphies have been described to manage recurrent ectropi on. The lower eyelid fascial sling (LEFS) uses a temporalis fascial strip t o create a suspension sling for the lower eyelid. In a series of 7 patients , the LEFS procedure resolved the symptoms permanently in all patients. Bec ause the LEFS procedure counteracts the natural scar contraction forces of lower eyelid burns, it can resolve recalcitrant ectropion successfully whil e preserving the function and aesthetics of the lower eyelid.