Utilization of the depressor anguli oris musculocutaneous flap for lip reconstruction

The authors describe the anatomic aspects and surgical technique of the dep ressor anguli oris musculocutaneous flap for reconstruction of the upper an d lower lips. Twenty patients were submitted to surgical treatment, 19 for carcinoma and for upper lip scar deformity. In all patients the repair was performed with the depressor anguli oris musculocutaneous island flap. At t he follow-up, lip function was satisfactory in 19 patients and unsatisfacto ry in 1 patient. The aesthetic results were considered satisfactory in all patients. The depressor anguli oris musculocutaneous island flap is safe fo r upper and lower lip reconstruction, with good functional and aesthetic re sults, and can be added as a new flap for lip reconstruction.