The authors present eight cases of lower eyelid reconstruction after
extended excision of cutaneous carcinomata. To recreate the supporting function of
the lower eyelid it is necessary to reconstruct a rigid structure, which must replace
the tarsus and has to be covered by sufficiently thin skin. A condrocutaneous helix
island flap, based on the frontal branch of the temporal artery, allows us to
reconstruct both lamellae of the eyelid at the same time. The reverse flow to the flap
through this vascular pedicle is assured by the anastomotic branches from the
supratrochlear and supraorbital arteries. Using this flap we have been able to
recreate morphology and function of the lower eyelid with a good cosmetic result in
the donor site as well.
