Combined Lateral Tarsal Strip and U-Plasty Flap for Surgical Management of Cicatrical Ectropion After Facial Tumor Excision: A Case Report

<i>Background</i>: Cicatricial ectropion, characterized by outward eyelid eversion due to anterior lamella shortening, often results from scar contraction after trauma or surgery. Due to scar contracture, surgical intervention is challenging to repair the defect<i>.</i> This condition leads to poor eyelid-globe apposition, which can cause ocular surface exposure, excessive tearing, and chronic irritation<i> Objective: </i>To report a case and evaluate the effectiveness of combining a lateral tarsal strip with a U-plasty flap technique in correcting cicatrical ectropion following facial tumor excision. <i>Main ideas</i>: A 58-year-old woman developed cicatricial ectropion following a wide excision for facial tumor removal. The patient exhibited symptoms, including eye irritation, epiphora, and discomfort. Clinical examination revealed lower eyelid ectropion, dermatochalasis, and scar tissue contraction near the left lateral canthus and maxilla. The surgical approach involved a combination of a lateral tarsal strip procedure to address horizontal eyelid laxity and a U-plasty flap to repair scar-induced anterior lamella shortening. Results at the three-month follow-up indicated successful correction of eyelid malposition with mild residual ectropion but no corneal exposure or significant complications. The patient experienced a resolution of symptoms and showed good healing at the surgical site. <i>Conclusion</i>: The combined lateral tarsal strip and U-plasty techniques effectively corrected cicatricial ectropion, restoring eyelid function and achieving satisfactory aesthetic results. This approach may be considered as a reconstructive option in similar cases of scar-related anterior lamellar shortening.