Which Tissue Should Be Removed in Upper Blepharoplasty? Analysis and Evaluation of Satisfaction.

BACKGROUND: Due to various options for tissue resection and preoperative markings, many different reports on aesthetics and patient's satisfaction exist. To assess differences among tissue resections and risk factors, we herein analyzed satisfaction levels of patients that underwent upper blepharoplasty. METHODS: A retrospective analysis during the period from January 2006 to June 2013 was conducted by reviewing patient's electronic medical files. All patients underwent medically indicated upper blepharoplasty at our department. We classified patients relating to resected tissues; hence the categories created were skin, skin/muscle, skin/muscle/fat and skin/fat. Furthermore, an evaluation of risk factors according to the patient's number of present medical preconditions ranging from 0 (none) to 4 was performed. Data collection was conducted by reviewing patient's electronic medical files. Moreover, a questionnaire concerning patient's satisfaction was forwarded. RESULTS: No significant differences in patient's satisfaction and complication rates comparing the different groups of tissue resection were noted. However, we found a significantly higher complication rate at a presence of 2 risk factors. In addition, a significantly worse scar outcome and longer recovery periods in patients with 4 risk factors were observed. CONCLUSION: 2014 in Munich, Germany.