An effective technique in lower eyelid reconstruction in elderly patients: analysis of postoperative results of the Tripier flap technique

Background Eyelids are unique units of the face that have functional and aesthetic properties. To maintain these functions, proper reconstruction of the periorbital structures is crucial. Tripier flap is a feasible technique to reconstruct the eyelid defect with a similar tissue. The present study aims to reveal long-term postoperative outcomes of the Tripier flap. Methods The patients who underwent lower eyelid reconstruction with the Tripier flap technique between November 2017 and March 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. The demographic characteristics of the patients, etiology and morphometric measurements of the defects, type of the surgery, complications, and aesthetic outcomes were evaluated. Results Tripier flap technique was applied in 9 of 35 patients. The mean age of the patients was 73.4. In all patients, the etiology was oncologic surgery. Basal cell carcinoma was the most common pathological diagnosis. Postoperative complications were in the early period is wound dehiscence and in late period chronic edema of the flap in another one. The average follow-up time is 19.6 months. Conclusions Tripier flap is an efficient technique, especially in elderly patients, excessive tissue in the upper eyelid contributes to achieving low complication rates, satisfactory long-term functional, and aesthetic results that make this technique favorable. Level of Evidence: Level IV, therapeutic study.