Featured Article for February 28, 2019
Contracted Socket
A contracted socket is a complication of an anophthalmic socket which results in the inability to support a prosthesis. It is an uncommon but significant problem for the ophthalmic plastic surgeon. A poorly fitting prosthesis results in subpar cosmesis, can be damaging to the psyches of patients, and can result in additional injury and infection. A contracted socket can occur weeks to years after enucleation or evisceration. While historically it was believed that the symblepharon and sulcus deformity associated with a contacted socket were incurable, advances in the use of grafting materials, alloplastic implants, and flaps have allowed contracted sockets to be reformed, therefore returning the function of the normal fornix. The contracted socket should not be confused with Post Enucleation Socket Syndrome (PESS) which is characterized by a deep upper eyelid sulcus, lower lid laxity, and eyelid malpositions without shrinkage or shortening of the soft tissues.
