Microsurgical correction of progressive facial hemiatrophy using free anterolateral thigh adipofascial flap.

BACKGROUND: The etiology of progressive facial hemiatrophy is unclear according to resent research. The diseases lack effective treatments. The purpose of this study was to introduce a technique that restores the cosmetic amelioration effectively using free anterolateral thigh adipofascial flap through anastomosis.

METHODS: From September 1999 to June 2011, a total of 14 patients were subjected to correction with revascularized free anterolateral thigh adipofascial flaps at the first stage. Some of them performed additional procedures, such as dermal fat flap filling, lipoinjection, liposuction, and thinning of the flap, were used for secondary minor deformities after the first-stage operation. The donor sites were closed primarily without skin grafting or other flap transplantation.

RESULTS: All of the flaps survived, and the effect is stable during the follow-ups. Patients were quite satisfied with the symmetry and plumpness of the reconstructed faces. The donor sites were sutured directly and healed at the first stage; there were no obvious morbidities and dysfunctions.

CONCLUSIONS: The anterolateral thigh adipofascial flap can provide adequate tissue with reliable blood supply, pliability, ease of revision, and minimal morbidity and dysfunction at the donor site. It is a safe, stable, and effective technique for hemifacial atrophy.