Eyelid reconstruction using a hard palate mucoperiosteal graft combined with a V-Y subcutaneously pedicled flap

Abstract

Full-thickness eyelid defects after tumour ablation require the reconstruction of two layers, the anterior and posterior lamellae. Eyelids were successfully reconstructed after removal of malignant tumours in four patients using a hard palate mucoperiosteal graft combined with a curved V-Y subcutaneously pedicled flap. Although there have been some reports of hard palate mucosal grafts for reconstruction of the posterior lamella, the graft is not sufficiently rigid to support the reconstructed eyelid without the aid of supporting materials such as cartilage grafts. The hard palate mucoperiosteal graft seems to be rigid enough to support the reconstructed eyelid without the use of cartilage or other supporting materials. The subcutaneously pedicled V-Y advancement flap is useful for reconstruction of the anterior lamella in partial eyelid defects. We used it with a modified curved design to allow easy advancement and to make postoperative scars inconspicuous.