Modified bilateral neurovascular cheek flaps: a new technique for reconstruction of extensive upper lip defects.

Abstract

The authors present a modified bilateral neurovascular cheek flap as a new technique for extensive upper lip reconstruction. The technique is modified from the bilateral neurovascular cheek flap for lower lip reconstruction described by Vatanasapt and colleagues in 1987 by designing rectangular and triangular flaps in the cheek tissues lateral to the lip defect on both the skin and the mucosal sides. This method has the advantage of preserving neurovascular structures as well as the original position of the oral commissure. Five patients are presented with acceptable surgical results. The technique is a good choice for functional reconstruction of near-total or total upper lip defects.