Traumatic Eyelid Defects: A Review of Reconstructive Options

Purpose: Reconstruction of eyelid defects sustained from trauma can cause significant morbidity if not properly treated. Various local flaps are available to aid in this reconstruction. Patients and Methods: Two hundred twelve patients sustained facial lacreations. Of these, 33 patients sustained injury to the eyelids. Six patients had significantly missing tissue, which required treatment with flaps. Results: All patients had reconstruction of their eyelid defects. Three of the 6 patients (50%) with avulsive-type defects required a staged approach. Conclusions: For large avulsive eyelid defects, local and rigid flaps provide adequate reconstruction. For very large defects, a staged approach is recommended. © 2009 American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons.