Simplified technique for lateral canthal tendon canthopexy

PURPOSE: Different techniques for lateral canthal suspension have been used in the management of various eyelid malpositions. We describe a simplified technique for lateral canthal suspension and review its outcome along with a review of existing variations. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective chart review of 28 eyelids in 22 patients who underwent simplified lateral canthal suspension. Demographics, symptoms at presentation, and associated eyelid malposition were noted. We evaluated the palpebral fissure and margin-reflex distance 2 (MRD2) on the preoperative and final postoperative photographs by using MEEI FACE-gram software. We also reviewed existing literature on different surgical management options for comparison. RESULTS: At three-month postoperative follow-up, presenting symptoms resolved in all cases. The average postoperative decease in palpebral fissure was 0.73 mm (P = 0.018) and the average decrease of the MRD2 was 1.02 mm (P = 0.0003). Recurrence occurred by three months in one eyelid (4%) with ectropion due to moderate eyelid laxity, and this case was managed with tarsal strip procedure. One patient (5%) who had bilateral surgery had asymmetric lower eyelid position and one patient (5%) had persistent edema of the operated eyelid for six months. CONCLUSION: This simplified canthal suspension is a simple and effective technique that tightens the lateral canthal tendon and improves the lower eyelid position. It can be used in various mild-to-moderate eyelid laxities and has favorable operative characteristics compared with many existing techniques.