[Use of a submental flap for reconstruction of both lips in a complex case of mutilation]

Abstract

Authors present a new technique allowing simultaneous reconstruction of both lips. In a severe mutilation, a submental flap pedicled on both submental axes was used. Three weeks after the operation, an horizontal incision was done into the flap combined with full thickness skin grafts to achieve the reconstruction of both labial esthetic units. The other available techniques are discussed, among them, microsurgery. This technique seemed very relevant in this reconstruction and a good example of Gillies' principle: "replace like with like".

Keywords: Lambeau sous mental; Lip reconstruction; Reconstruction lèvre; Sub mental flap.