Complications of the Transconjunctival Approach

OBJECTIVE: To review the intraoperative and postoperative complications of the transconjunctival approach, as well as their prevention, management, and outcomes. DESIGN: A retrospective study of the complications in 400 patients who underwent the transconjunctival approach to the lower eyelid or orbit for treatment of orbital trauma or the aging face. SETTING: Academic tertiary referral medical center. RESULTS: There were 8 cases of conjunctival granuloma, 2 cases of entropion, and 1 case each of hematoma, ectropion, prolonged chemosis, conjunctival inclusion cyst, lower eyelid laceration, and avulsion with lacrimal system injury. CONCLUSIONS: Complications of the transconjunctival approach are uncommon. When they do occur, proper management results in a successful outcome.