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Bilateral eyebrow reconstruction using a unilateral extended superficial temporal artery flap
Akiyoshi Kajikawa1, Kazuki Ueda
1Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan.
Annals of Plastic Surgery
|April 3, 2003
Summary
This study presents a novel unilateral superficial temporal artery (STA) flap technique for bilateral eyebrow reconstruction. This method allows for natural hair growth direction and reduces invasiveness compared to traditional bilateral STA flaps.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Reconstructive Surgery
Background:
- Bilateral eyebrow reconstruction typically involves two superficial temporal artery (STA) flaps.
- Optimal flap design considers movable range and hair growth direction.
Observation:
- A new technique utilizes a unilateral STA flap extended by anastomosis with the occipital artery.
- This approach incorporates two hair-bearing skin islands for reconstruction.
Findings:
- Successfully reconstructed bilateral eyebrows with natural hair growth direction.
- Achieved symmetric eyebrows with lateral and slightly upward hair growth.
- Demonstrated reduced invasiveness, bleeding, and operating time compared to bilateral STA flaps.
Implications:
- This method offers improved aesthetic outcomes for eyebrow reconstruction.
- It provides a viable option for patients with contraindications for bilateral STA flaps.
- The technique allows precise control over hair growth direction for natural-looking results.