Subconjunctival Orbital Fat Prolapse: An Update on Diagnosis and Management

Abstract

Subconjunctival prolapse of orbital fat is an uncommon clinical entity in which intraconal orbital fat herniates into the subconjunctival space. Its diagnosis is mainly clinical in character and usually based on palpation, patient clinical history, and lesion features along with a slit lamp examination. Its pathophysiology remains unclear. Although frequently asymptomatic, clinical features may simulate conditions such as a prolapsed lacrimal gland, orbital lymphoma or dermolipoma and may worsen over time. In such cases, surgical removal or repositioning of the herniated fat may be necessary. While several surgical techniques have been described, no reports exist of a customized approach to manage this condition. This paper reviews the diagnosis and management of subconjunctival orbital fat prolapse.

Keywords: Orbital fat prolapse; dermolipoma; fornix fat prolapse; orbital lymphoma; surgical techniques.