Local flap reconstruction of acquired lip defects

The goal of this article is to review contemporary local flap reconstructive techniques for acquired lip defects. Lip reconstruction is a complex undertaking that necessitates an understanding of underlying principles. New techniques focus on local flap reconstruction which maintain oral competence, avoid microstomia, and achieve aesthetically satisfactory results.

The contemporary literature employs an aesthetic subunit approach to achieve reconstruction of vermillion, perioral cutaneous, and full-thickness defects. Several new techniques are variations of traditional techniques with modifications that preserve tissue and place incisions along the borders of aesthetic subunits.

This review presents techniques for vermillion, perioral cutaneous, and full-thickness lip reconstruction. Also presented is an algorithm for contemporary local flap reconstruction of the lip.