Reconstruction of the Cheek using Various Methods

ABSTRACT

The reconstruction of the cheek area is a complex problem because the cheek is the most broad area of the face and is close to the aesthetically important region such as eyelids, nose, and mouth. The ultimate purpose of the cheek reconstruction is the restoration of the original shape and function, and establishment of the harmony with the adjacent structure in terms of color, nature and thickness. Various procedures such as skin graft, local flap, free flap, and local flap using skin expansion have been performed for cheek reconstruction. However, no golden principal or indication has been clarified to be imperative. Analyzing our clinical experiences of the cheek reconstruction, we intend to present a general guide of the cheek reconstruction and to assess the advantages and/or disadvantages of the operative methods. Between march of 1989 and August of 1999, we have experienced 154 cases of the cheek reconstruction. There were 52 males and 73 females, and their ages ranged from 3 to 89 years (mean 28.1 years). Preoperative diagnosis were post-burn deformity(n=74), Romberg disease (n=9), post-traumatic deformity(n=7), hemangioma(n=7), nevus(n=7), neurofibroma(n=5), hemifacial microsomia (n=3), lymphangioma(n=3), cancer(n=6), post-hemimandibulectomy(n=1), radical maxillectomy(n=1). The procedures were one stage cervicofacial flap(49 cases), cervicofacial flap following skin expansion(42 cases), local cheek flap (14 cases), deltocervicopectoral flap(2 cases), skin graft(29 cases), free flap(18 cases). Follow up period ranged from 3 to 72 months(mean 11.8 months). Advantages and disadvantages of each procedures were explained. The satisfaction rate was higher in one stage cervicofacial flap and free flap when assessed by both patients and surgeon. There were 3 cases of the ectropion of lower eylids, 4 cases of partial flap necrosis, and 1 case of exposure of tissue expander. The local flap is always the preferred method for the cheek reconstruction and the free flap is the treatment of choice for the cheek contour reconstruction. Selection of the most suitable flap is mandatory depending on the location and size of the defects.