Our Summary

The research paper focuses on a new technique developed by the authors for correcting a common issue among Asians - epicanthal folds. These are skin folds on the inner corner of the eye, which many individuals choose to correct through surgery. However, sometimes, the results are not satisfactory, and there are few options for fixing them.

The authors’ new technique, called reverse Z-plasty, is designed to correct an overdone initial surgery. They tested it on over 500 patients who had previously undergone surgery to correct their epicanthal folds, but were not happy with the results.

The patients’ satisfaction with the results of the new technique was assessed through a survey, and the researchers also used digital imaging to measure specific changes in the eye area. The majority of patients were happy with the results, and only a small percentage needed further correction.

The authors conclude that their technique is effective in restoring a natural appearance to the corner of the eye. It reshapes the skin and soft tissues in the area, including muscle and ligament, to compensate for any tissue loss or distortion from the previous surgery. The technique is simple to perform and results in satisfactory outcomes.

FAQs

  1. What is the reverse Z-plasty technique developed by the authors?
  2. How was the effectiveness of the reverse Z-plasty technique tested and assessed?
  3. What percentage of patients needed further correction after undergoing the reverse Z-plasty technique?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about z-plasty is to follow post-operative care instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and optimal results. This may include keeping the incision site clean and dry, taking prescribed medications as directed, avoiding strenuous activities that could strain the area, and attending follow-up appointments with the surgeon. It is also important to communicate any concerns or changes in symptoms to the doctor promptly. By following these guidelines, patients can help promote successful healing and achieve the desired outcome from their z-plasty procedure.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for z-plasty are those who have undergone previous surgery to correct an issue, but are not satisfied with the results. In this case, the research paper specifically focuses on Asian patients with epicanthal folds who have had surgery to correct them but are still not happy with the outcome. The reverse Z-plasty technique developed by the authors is intended to address this specific issue and provide a more natural appearance to the eye area.

Overall, patients who are seeking revision surgery or correction of a previous procedure may be good candidates for z-plasty techniques, as they offer a way to address issues that may not have been adequately corrected with initial surgery.

Timeline

Before Z-plasty:

  1. Patient undergoes initial surgery to correct epicanthal folds.
  2. Patient is dissatisfied with the results of the surgery.
  3. Patient seeks out alternative options for correction.

After Z-plasty:

  1. Patient consults with a surgeon about the reverse Z-plasty technique.
  2. Surgeon performs the Z-plasty procedure to correct the overdone initial surgery.
  3. Patient undergoes a recovery period following the Z-plasty procedure.
  4. Patient’s satisfaction with the results is assessed through a survey and digital imaging.
  5. Majority of patients are happy with the results, with only a small percentage needing further correction.
  6. Authors conclude that the technique is effective in restoring a natural appearance to the eye area.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is a Z-plasty and how does it differ from a reverse Z-plasty?
  2. How does the reverse Z-plasty technique specifically address overdone initial surgery for epicanthal folds?
  3. What are the potential risks and complications associated with the reverse Z-plasty procedure?
  4. How long is the recovery time for the reverse Z-plasty procedure?
  5. What kind of scarring can be expected after the reverse Z-plasty surgery?
  6. How many procedures have you performed using the reverse Z-plasty technique, and what has been the success rate?
  7. Are there any alternative treatments or techniques that can be considered for correcting overdone initial surgery for epicanthal folds?
  8. Will additional follow-up surgeries be necessary after undergoing the reverse Z-plasty procedure?
  9. How should I prepare for the reverse Z-plasty surgery, and are there any specific post-operative care instructions I should follow?
  10. What are the expected outcomes and potential improvements in appearance that can be achieved with the reverse Z-plasty procedure?

Reference

Authors: Ha JH, Park YO, Jin US. Journal: Aesthet Surg J. 2022 Jan 1;42(1):10-15. doi: 10.1093/asj/sjab091. PMID: 33675227