Neck skin expansion in repairing defect of cheek

Objective To summarize the lateral neck skin expansion repair in tissue defect of cheek in 113 cases during past 13 years, look for a best method for different condition and different repairs. Methods 3 types of operation methods for skin defect of cheek were used. ①The lateral neck skin advanced flap; ②The lateral neck skin transposition flap;③The lateral neck skin relay expansion method; Results In 113 cases, there were 52 cases of advanced flap transposition flap in 26 cases, the relay expansion flap in 35 cases, no one flap necrosis occured. the complications were: hematoma 2 cases, seroma 5cases, expander expose 6 cases, expander form angle 10 cases. In 19 cases second stage scar excision were performed. Conclusion The expansion is a best choice for defect of cheek when lateral neck skin is normal. The advanced flap is used for lower area of cheek without influence on lip and chin scar repair; the transposion flap is used for inferior area of cheek, area front to ear, angle of mouth, lip and chin; the relay expansion flap is not only used for defect of whole cheek scar, but also may prevent extropion of lower eyelid