Flap reconstruction of the upper face: free flaps vs. lower trapezius myocutaneous flap

The immediate one-stage reconstruction of the upper facial cutaneous defects were performed by using two different flaps. In the first representative patient a microvascular free flap was used; in a second case, the lower trapezius myocutaneous flap was used. Free flaps probably are ideal for the correction of such defects in one stage. This procedure requires specially trained surgical teams and longer operative time. A reliable alternative is the lower trapezius myocutaneous island flap. This offers a flap that is thin, hairless and of uniform thickness. The length and thickness of its pedicle allows excellent mobility and leaves no bulky neck deformity. Both these reconstructive techniques satisfy the need for viable replacement in large upper facial and scalp defects coupled with a satisfactory cosmetic outcome.