Cheek reconstruction: current concepts in managing facial soft tissue loss

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Reconstructive Surgery

Background:

• Cheek defects pose significant reconstructive challenges due to high visibility and limited local tissue availability.
• The cheek's proximity to vital structures like the eye and mouth necessitates careful functional and aesthetic restoration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline strategies for achieving satisfactory functional and aesthetic results in cheek defect reconstruction.
• To emphasize the importance of three-dimensional restoration, texture matching, and functional preservation.

Main Methods:

• Review of established principles in facial reconstructive surgery.
• Application of the "reconstructive ladder" approach, ranging from direct closure to free-flap repair.
• Consideration of defect size, location, adjacent structures, donor tissue availability, and skin tension lines.

Main Results:

• Successful cheek reconstruction requires meticulous planning and execution.
• Prioritizing functional preservation over cosmetic outcome is crucial.
• Local tissue utilization is preferred for optimal color and contour matching when possible.

Conclusions:

• A systematic approach, guided by the reconstructive ladder, ensures optimal outcomes for cheek defects.
• Tailoring the technique to individual defect characteristics is essential for functional and aesthetic success.
• Cheek reconstruction demands a balance between preserving function and achieving cosmetic goals.