Periorbital rejuvenation surgery in the geriatric population

Periorbital aging is an unavoidable, progressive process that is often accompanied by visual obscurations and ocular discomfort. With surgical correction, patients may benefit not only functionally but also psychosocially when an aesthetic outcome is obtained. The periorbital anatomical structures in elderly patients are complex and interlocking, requiring a thorough evaluation and systematic approach. Most elderly patients are reluctant to undergo procedures that require prolonged surgical and recovery times if they think it is only for cosmetic improvement. We review contemporary periorbital surgical methods suitable for a geriatric population, namely procedures that are low-cost, low-risk, with short operative and recovery times, and that have excellent patient acceptability. It is feasible to select procedures that can be customized to the needs of the elderly. ? 2010 Taiwan Society of Geriatric Emergency & Critical Care Medicine.