Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Global Open (Jun 2024)

The Expanded Forehead Flap for Resurfacing of Multi-unit Congenital Nevi of the Face

  • Meagan Wu, MA,
  • Matthew E. Pontell, MD,
  • Benjamin B. Massenburg, MD,
  • Jinggang J. Ng, MA,
  • Dominic J. Romeo, MA,
  • Jordan W. Swanson, MD, MSc,
  • Jesse A. Taylor, MD,
  • Scott P. Bartlett, MD

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1097/GOX.0000000000005867
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 12, no. 6
p. e5867

Abstract

Read online

Summary:. The forehead flap is a timeless and robust reconstructive option for complex facial defects. In accordance with aesthetic subunit principles, it has traditionally been used to resurface defects affecting a single cervicofacial region, most commonly the nose or periorbital unit. In this article, we present three cases of congenital nevi treated with expanded forehead flap reconstruction of the nasal, periorbital, and cheek units in early childhood. This series demonstrates an approach that, while violating facial units, limits total scar burden and optimizes aesthetic and functional results. With precise staging and execution, this reconstructive technique allows for a single flap to resurface multi-unit defects in the pediatric population with excellent long-term results.