Repair of the Medial Canthus Following Mohs Micrographic Surgery

BACKGROUND: The medial canthus poses unique reconstructive challenges because of its anatomy and contour. The reconstructive goal should be preservation of the natural concavity that defines it because even small alterations can result in perceptible asymmetry. OBJECTIVE: To present the anatomy of this unique cosmetic subunit and review reconstructive options that preserve contour and function. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A variety of reconstructive approaches for different subunits of the medial canthus are described and discussed. Technical considerations and complications are discussed. RESULTS: The choice of repair will depend on the relative location of the defect on the medial canthus and the proximity to adjacent cosmetic subunits. CONCLUSION: Understanding of the unique contour and anatomy of the medial canthus is essential to choosing the best repair option that preserves contour and symmetry.