Advances in eyelid reconstruction

Purpose of review To describe the principles of eyelid reconstruction that must balance aesthetic and functional concerns of one of the most important areas of physical beauty on the human body. Our review seeks to give an overview of how to utilize a variety of techniques along the reconstructive ladder from direct closure to complex grafts and local flaps. Recent findings We describe novel modifications of existing flaps that have been traditionally used in eyelid reconstruction along with analysis of many time honored techniques and current research in improving our understanding of the factors which allow a successful reconstruction. Summary A familiarity with the variety of options for reconstruction will give the surgeon the fluidity to analyze a defect and choose the best possible method.