Lengthening of the upper lid retractors

Abstract

The authors present a technique to correct upper lid retraction that constitutes a true lengthening of the retractor elements. Instead of levator disinsertions, myotomies, extirpations of Miiller's muscle, recessions or use of 'spacers', a simple and efficient lengthening of the upper retractor structures is performed via the anterior approach. The surgery is carried out in a manner similar to that of the blepharoptosis procedure, the difference being that an elongation takes place instead of a resection. The technique may correct any degree of lid retraction and the predictable and stable results obtained in ten patients are described.

Key Words:

• eyelid retraction
• muscular lengthening
• thyroid orbitopathy