Traction-Modified Blepharoplasty

Abstract

Increasing mechanization, tools, and surgical fields are the recent general trend in surgery. In selected procedures, for example, blepharoplasty, simplification actually may enhance performance, shorten overall procedure times, and modulate costs. Traction-based blepharoplasty techniques are described that reduce surgical instrumentation and time while offering improved visualization. The use of hooks, forceps, and cotton-tipped applicators, as well as their attendant possible concerns, including hook "sticks" of operating room personnel, forceps wound trauma, and the limited availability for sangiunous or other fluid absorption of applicators has been eliminated or greatly reduced. Thus the proficient surgeon can focus more on the performance of blepharoplasty techniques critical for optimal cosmetic outcome and patient satisfaction. The use of these techniques produces cosmetic and natural results that are at least equivalent if not superior to blepharoplasty performed in the traditionally described manner. 9