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M. Reza Vagefi, MD; Richard L. Anderson, MD

Arch Facial Plast Surg. 2009;11(2):136-139.

The lateral canthus normally sits 1 to 2 mm higher than the medial canthus. With time, aging and gravity produce inferior displacement of the canthus. Numerous eyelid disorders can also result in lower eyelid or lateral canthal tendon laxity or malposition, requiring horizontal eyelid tightening or canthal repositioning. The lateral tarsal strip procedure has proven to be a useful technique in addressing these problems. Care must be taken when suspending the tarsal strip to the lateral orbital rim to preserve the almond shape of the lateral canthal angle. If mild to moderate upper eyelid laxity is present, suspension of the strip can result in upper eyelid overhang with lower eyelid and eyelash imbrication. We describe the lateral tarsal strip mini-tarsorrhaphy procedure that overcomes this problem. The technique provides excellent functional and aesthetic results and adds to the versatility of a time-tested procedure.

Author Affiliations: Center for Facial Appearances, Salt Lake City, Utah.