Modified blepharoplasty combined with autologous fat transplantation into the orbital septum for the correction of dermatochalasis and sunken eyelids

Abstract

Background

Periorbital aging typically manifests with dermatochalasis and depression of the upper eyelid. While blepharoplasty is a popular choice for addressing upper eyelid skin laxity, it is not effective for treating sunken eyelids. This study introduces an innovative approach for periorbital rejuvenation by simultaneously addressing dermatochalasis and sunken upper eyelids in aging Asian women.

Method

This study involved 45 patients with upper eyelid dermatochalasis accompanied by moderate to severe depression. Sub-brow blepharoplasty was performed in conjunction with upper eyelid granular fat grafting in the orbital septum for these patients. Preoperative measurements of the depth and volume of the upper eyelid depressions were taken, and surgical outcomes were assessed at 3 and 6 months postoperatively using the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS) score and the Antera 3D camera.

Result

The average depth of the upper eyelid depression before surgery was 6.501 ± 1.473 mm, and the average volume was 0.579 ± 0.144 cm³. Significant improvements in both the depth and volume of the depressions were observed at 3 and 6 months after surgery compared to preoperative measurements. The GAIS scores were also improved and postoperative outcomes were deemed satisfactory.

Conclusion

For patients with dermatochalasis accompanied by moderate to severe upper eyelid depression, standard blepharoplasty alone is insufficient to correct the sunken eyelid. This novel technique, which combines autologous granular fat injection into the orbital septum with blepharoplasty, effectively addresses periorbital aging, enhancing facial rejuvenation.