The utility of the lateral forehead flap in demanding reconstructive situations: our experience in a tertiary care center

Abstract

The current century is an era of microsurgical reconstruction. However, there are situations when free tissue reconstruction is not possible due to extremes of age, their associated co morbidities and dearth of microsurgical expertise and equipment. The significance of local and regional flaps in such reconstructive scenario is paramount. These flaps are well vascularised, easy to master, quick to perform and can be used in both primary as well as salvage reconstruction. The Lateral forehead flap (LFF) is one such useful option. The LFF is an axial myocutaneous flap spanning the entire forehead aesthetic subunit. Herein we describe the operative technique of LFF elevation, advantages and disadvantages of the use of this flap in the reconstruction of facial and intra oral defects reconstruction, both in primary and salvage settings. We describe our experience in the use of this handy flap for various facial reconstructions in our institute. This versatile “forgotten” flap which is easy to master can be handy to all general plastic surgeons who indulge in such reconstructions.