title: Spontaneous subconjunctival orbital fat prolapse: presentation of four cases.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Subconjunctival orbital fat prolapse is a benign entity characterized by orbital fat herniation through a dehiscence in Tenon's capsule, usually between the superior and lateral recti muscles. It is often associated with ocular trauma or surgery, although spontaneous cases have also been reported with a predilection for obese individuals.
  
  
  METHODS
  A retrospective study of four subconjunctival orbital-fat prolapse cases with no history of ocular surgery or trauma was performed. A trans-conjunctival surgical approach with Tenon's capsule repair was offered to all subjects. Differential diagnosis is discussed.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The diagnosis of subconjunctival orbital fat prolapse was confirmed in all cases by histopathological examination. Functional and aesthetic postoperative results were excellent, with no recurrences during follow-up, for all cases.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Although rare, subconjunctival orbital fat prolapse should be recognized. Surgical management offers excellent results.
authors.affiliation: Jules Gonin Eye Hospital, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.
authors.forename: A N
authors.initials: AN
authors.lastname: Stangos
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Hamédani
mesh_terms: D000273:Adipose Tissue / Q000473:pathology* / Q000601:surgery*; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D003229:Conjunctival Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000601:surgery*; D005260:Female; D006547:Hernia / Q000473:pathology*; D059685:Herniorrhaphy; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D013508:Ophthalmologic Surgical Procedures / Q000379:methods*; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D016896:Treatment Outcome