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Soft-tissue augmentation of the middle and lower face using the deepithelialized submental flap
Onder Tan1, Bekir Atik, Duygu Parmaksizoglu
1Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery, Ataturk University, Erzurum, Turkey. mdtan@atauni.edu.tr
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
|February 22, 2007
Summary
The deepithelialized submental flap offers a safe and effective method for facial contour restoration, particularly for patients unsuitable for microsurgery. This technique provides excellent results for conditions like hemifacial microsomia and facial paralysis.
Area of Science:
- Reconstructive surgery
- Plastic surgery
- Facial anatomy
Background:
- Facial contour augmentation is a common reconstructive challenge.
- Autologous tissues (fat, cartilage, bone) and free flaps are traditional methods.
- Microsurgical procedures have limitations and risks, especially for certain patients.
Observation:
- The deepithelialized submental flap was used for facial augmentation in three patients.
- Two patients had hemifacial microsomia, and one had facial paralysis.
- The flap was used in a deepithelialized fashion.
Findings:
- Successful facial augmentation was achieved in all cases.
- No complications were reported, and donor sites healed well.
- Patient satisfaction was high, with good aesthetic outcomes.
Implications:
- The deepithelialized submental flap is a safe alternative for facial contour restoration.
- It is particularly beneficial for patients who cannot undergo microsurgery.
- This technique can address deformities from hemifacial microsomia and facial paralysis.
