# Minimally Invasive Eyelid Lift: A Skin Preservation Upper Blepharoplasty

## TL;DR

A new eyelid surgery technique called MINEL avoids skin removal, leading to natural results and faster recovery.

## Contribution

The MINEL technique preserves tissue by tucking excess skin inward instead of excising it.

## Key findings

- 37 patients reported positive outcomes with 70% expressing high satisfaction.
- The procedure reduced redundant skin with minimal scarring and preserved natural eyelid creases.
- Average procedure time was 33.9 minutes with rapid recovery.

## Abstract

Traditional upper blepharoplasty often involves skin excision, which can lead to complications such as hollowing, visible scarring, and unnatural result. A tissue-preservation approach may offer quicker recovery and improved cosmetic outcomes.

In this preliminary report, the authors introduce the Minimally Invasive Eyelid Lift (MINEL), a novel tissue-preserving upper blepharoplasty technique that tucks excess skin inward, avoiding skin excision, and evaluates its effectiveness in achieving natural and lasting results.

We included patients with dermatochalasis and underwent MINEL procedure. The technique involved creating small incisions, tucking the excess skin inwards, and securing it with nonabsorbable sutures.

Thirty-seven patients undergoing the MINEL procedure all reported positive functional and aesthetic outcomes, with 70% very satisfied. The technique effectively reduced redundant skin, preserved natural eyelid creases, and resulted in minimal scarring. The average procedure duration was 33.9 min, with rapid recovery and return to activities.

MINEL offers a promising tissue-preserving alternative to traditional upper blepharoplasty, providing natural aesthetic outcomes with minimal scarring and faster recovery. Further studies are needed to evaluate long-term results and compare its efficacy, including with traditional techniques, to validate its role in cosmetic eyelid surgery.