DEEP-PLANE CERVICOFACIAL ROTATION-ADVANCEMENT FLAP FOR RECONSTRUCTIONOF LARGE CHEEK DEFECTS

The blood supply and reliability of cervicofacial rotation-advancement flaps for cheek reconstruction can be improved significantly by disse cting the flap in the deep plane (i.e., below the superficial musculoa poneurotic system and the platysma). This modification, similar in tec hnique to that used in composite or deep-plane face lift, was used suc cessfully in seven patients, including several heavy cigarette smokers who were unlikely to have achieved a successful outcome with a conven tional cervicofacial flap. No facial nerve weaknesses were observed. W e now believe that the deep plane is the level of choice for dissectio n of cervicofacial flaps when used for reconstruction of cheek or othe r facial defects.