"Predicting Facial Changes After Blepharoplasty"

Abstract

Introduction: The primary goal of blepharoplasty for blepharoptosis and blepharochalasis is to elevate the upper eyelid to restore a full field of vision, although many surgeons also aim to provide a better aesthetic outcome. Several facial configuration changes may occur following blepharoplasty. This study examined the effectiveness of vessel clips to preoperatively predict facial configuration alterations.

Methods: We retrospectively enrolled 93 consecutive patients who underwent blepharoplasty correction for blepharoptosis and blepharochalasis with eyebrow elevation. Frontal portrait images were taken at the initial examination without load, preoperatively with vessel clips, and without load at 6 months postoperatively for evaluations of eyebrow height, forehead wrinkle length, and procerus area wrinkle length. Subjective outcomes were also surveyed by questionnaires and interviews at 6 months post-surgically.

Results: No significant differences were detected between preoperative measurements with vessel clips and recordings at 6 months postoperatively. Significant correlations were identified among the addition/reduction values for preoperative and postoperative measurements (eyebrow height and forehead wrinkle length: r=0.402, p<0.001; eyebrow height and procerus area wrinkle length: r=-0.327, p<0.01; forehead wrinkle length and procerus area wrinkle length: r=-0.488, p<0.001). Women more frequently described notable changes in wrinkles than men.

Conclusions: Postoperative facial change outcomes for blepharoplasty may be predicted using the simple but effective vessel clip test. A better understanding of surgical results can relieve patient anxiety and contribute to increased satisfaction.

Keywords: Müller's muscle; blepharochalasis; blepharoplasty; blepharoptosis; vessel clips.