Parotid defects

Parotidectomy is a widely performed procedure for various indications, including benign and malignant conditions. For malignant neoplasms of the parotid gland or metastatic disease, it may be performed in conjunction with cheek or temple skin resection, facial nerve sacrifice, or composite resection of a portion of the mandible. There are various options for reconstruction depending on the extent of resection. This article discusses various reconstructive options following parotidectomy and other ablative procedures that are often performed in conjunction. Reconstruction of parotidectomy defects associated with lateral temporal bone resection is discussed elsewhere in this issue.