Local flap reconstruction of acquired lip defects.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The goal of this article is to review contemporary local flap reconstructive techniques for acquired lip defects. Lip reconstruction is a complex undertaking that necessitates an understanding of underlying principles. New techniques focus on local flap reconstruction which maintain oral competence, avoid microstomia, and achieve aesthetically satisfactory results.

RECENT FINDINGS: The contemporary literature employs an aesthetic subunit approach to achieve reconstruction of vermillion, perioral cutaneous, and full-thickness defects. Several new techniques are variations of traditional techniques with modifications that preserve tissue and place incisions along the borders of aesthetic subunits.

SUMMARY: This review presents techniques for vermillion, perioral cutaneous, and full-thickness lip reconstruction. Also presented is an algorithm for contemporary local flap reconstruction of the lip.