Forehead Flap a Workhorse Flap for Facial Reconstruction- Our Experience at Tertiary Care Institute

Author(s): Seema Mittal*, Jaskirat Singh Makkar, Dilpreet Singh, Raman Mittal

Background: Managing post-traumatic or post-oncosurgical facial defects presents challenges. Minor defects may be treated with skin grafts or small local flaps, while larger ones necessitate advanced techniques like tissue expanders, prefabricated flaps, or free flaps. The enduring utilization of the forehead flap over centuries underscores its reliability in reconstructing substantial and intricate facial defects.

Aim: Assess the viability and adaptability of forehead flap for facial reconstruction.

Materials and Methods: 20 patients who underwent coverage of facial defects after trauma or tumor excision using forehead flaps were retrospectively analysed. The patient satisfaction and flap-related complications were analyzed.

Results: 20 patients (18 males and two females) underwent reconstruction of different facial defects using 20 forehead flaps. The complication occurred in one patient only. The remaining 19 patients showed no complications and passed an uneventful follow-up period. All the patients were fully satisfied.

Conclusion: The forehead flap effectively addresses facial defects, likely offering optimal results with its excellent skin match in color, texture, and thickness. Despite the rising popularity of free flaps, the forehead flap remains a valid and secure choice, ensuring both aesthetic and functional success in covering facial defects.