The ‘Facelift’ Flap Revisited

Abstract

The reconstruction of facial defects focuses on the preservation of function without compromising facial symmetry and esthetics. The aim of the study is to describe and evaluate a revised ‘facelift’ flap technique to reconstruct large defects of the cheek, temple, frontotemporal area, and zygomatic arch. A prospective, observational study of facial defect reconstruction by means of a ‘facelift’ flap was conducted from January 2019 to January 2022. The revised ‘facelift’ flap technique, based on the defect location and characteristics, is described. The postoperative outcomes and patient satisfaction were evaluated. The flap was applied to 34 patients with defect diameters ranging from 3 cm to 9 cm. The mean operation time was 67±17 minutes and the mean hospital stay was 1 day. No major postoperative complications were encountered; reoperation was not needed. High patient satisfaction rates were reported (9.6±0.5). The revised facelift flap is a reliable and safe method for the reconstruction of large defects of the cheek, temple, frontotemporal area, and zygomatic arch, based on local tissue availability that ensures satisfactory esthetic outcomes with undetectable scars.