Measurement method of upper blepharoplasty for orientals

Abstract

There is a considerable anatomical difference in the upper eyelid and the surrounding tissue of Orientals and Westerners. This results in a difference in the general public's opinion about “aged eyes.” Accordingly, when upper blepharoplasty is performed on Orientals for rejuvenation, the anatomical difference and the differing public viewpoint must be taken into account in order to achieve successful results that satisfy patients. The author discusses the differences between two grooves—the orbitopalpebral groove (OPG) and the superior-palpebral groove (SPG)—and the upper eyelid to distinguish the position and shape in Orientals versus Westerners. From his experience, the author shows that the OPG and the SPG might be formed from completely different mechanisms. The SPG of the double eyelid of Orientals is located closer to the palpebral rim than that of Westerners, making it easily distinguishable from the OPG. Thus, it is necessary to specify preoperatively the height of the fold and the shape of the double eyelid that the patient desires when performing a rejuvenating upper blepharoplasty. One must predetermine the resulting height of the SPG as well as the amount of excised skin to obtain a desirable double eyelid. So far, the amount of excised skin has been determined by the surgeon based on his experience. The author has deviced an easy and accurate method to use to preoperatively determine the amount of skin to be excised.