[Local flaps for the closure of facial defects]

Local flaps for the closure of facial defects after trauma, tumor resection or due to malformations have been well known since ancient times and allow good to satisfying functional and aesthetic results. Based on the characteristics of skin and soft tissue nearly all clinical situations can be resolved by stretching, rotating and transposing flaps depending on the localization. A good surgical technique is essential for the success. The basic principles are briefly described and suggestions for the application of flaps to different localizations are given. For analgesia local anesthesia is sufficient. As could be demonstrated multitudinously the method is ideal for closure of small to large defects in the face; therefore, microvascular surgery can be extremely restricted in treating defects of the face.