One-Stage Full-Thickness Eyelid Reconstruction Using Nasal Septal Chondromucosal Grafts, Large Local Flaps, and Buccal Mucosal Graft for Donor-Site Repair
Background: Eyelid reconstruction is particularly challenging because of the delicate anatomy and its critical functional and aesthetic roles. Although various methods have been described for anterior and posterior lamellar repairs, no standardized approach has been established. We developed a single-stage technique integrating reconstruction of both lamellae. Methods: This retrospective case series included seven consecutive patients who underwent full-thickness eyelid reconstruction between 2012 and 2024. Patients were included if they had full-thickness defects requiring reconstruction of both lamellae, underwent reconstruction using a nasal septal chondromucosal graft combined with a large local flap, and had at least 12 months of follow-up. The posterior lamella was reconstructed using nasal septal chondromucosal grafts, and the anterior lamella using large local flaps. Donor sites were managed using various methods. Results: All patients (7/7) achieved complete graft survival without partial or total graft loss. All patients achieved complete eyelid closure without lagophthalmos, and no cases of ectropion, corneal complications, or graft failure were observed. Buccal mucosal grafting demonstrated the most favorable donor-site outcomes, with uneventful healing and no septal perforation or airway-related complications. Conclusions: This single-stage approach combining chondromucosal grafts and local flaps is a feasible and reproducible option for selected patients, providing reliable structural support and satisfactory functional outcomes.
Authors
- Jeong Hun Ahn
- Sang Seok Woo (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6026-4516)
- Jai Koo Choi (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5176-3759)
- Ki Hyun Kim
- K. Kim (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0003-5006-4416)
- Seong Hwan Kim (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6831-5621)
- J H Lee
- In Suck Suh (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9793-4031)
Institutions
- Hallym University Kangnam Sacred Heart Hospital (KR)
Publication Details
- Journal
- Journal of Clinical Medicine
- Published
- 2026-04-22
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15093190
- Primary Topic
- Reconstructive Facial Surgery Techniques
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00