The New Face of the Switch Flap in the Reconstruction of a Large Upper Eyelid Defect

Abstract

Reconstruction of a large defect after the removal of a massive malignant upper lid tumor is still a challenge in oculoplastic surgery. Our method of choice is Mustardé switch flap. Due to the lack of Mohs micrographic surgery and frozen section technique as well as waiting time of two weeks for histopathological results, we made modifications enabling us to reexcise in case of positive margins: the width of the pedicle of the flap was 7 mm allowing the length of the flap to be increased if needed, the lids were closed with temporary lateral tarsorrhaphy to protect the eye, and the lower lid is finally reconstructed in the second stage of the procedure. In three patients with malignant upper lid tumors, this method of reconstruction proved to be safe and effective with favorable long-term results.