Modified cervicofacial transposition flap: a case report of aesthetic considerations after resection of a huge facial squamous cell carcinoma

Abstract

The cheek, a highly visible and significant aspect of an individual’s appearance, is situated adjacent to several structures involved in facial expressions, including the eye, mouth, and surrounding facial muscles. Consequently, aesthetic reconstruction for large cutaneous defects of the cheek remains a challenge for plastic surgeons. We experienced a case of an 83-year-old woman with a large (7×10 cm) facial defect following the removal of squamous cell carcinoma. We elevated a cervicofacial skin flap containing the superficial layer of the superficial musculoaponeurotic system and a blood supply via the dermal plexus in a random pattern. Through this method, we achieved aesthetically favorable reconstruction of a large facial defect using a cervicofacial transposition skin flap. By avoiding extensive dissection, we achieved adequate coverage for even a quite sizable facial defect, with a short recovery time. This method prevented facial nerve injury and made it possible to simultaneously obtain an aesthetically favorable outcome.

Keywords

• cheek reconstruction
• expanded cervicofacial flap
• squamous cell carcinoma
• surgical flaps
• superficial musculooponeurotic system