Freestyle facial perforator flaps—a safe reconstructive option for moderate-sized facial defects

Abstract

Abstract Background Perforators are a constant anatomical finding in the facial area and any known flap can in theory be based on the first perforator located at the flap rotation axis. Methods A case series of single stage reconstruction of moderate sized facial defects using 21 perforator based local flaps in 19 patients from 2008–2013. Results A sufficient perforator was located in every case and the flap rotated along its axis (76 %) or advanced (24 %). Reconstruction was successfully achieved with a high self reported patient satisfaction. Two minor complications occurred early on in the series and corrective procedures were performed in four patients. Conclusions The random facial perforator flap seems to be a good and reliable option for the reconstruction of facial subunits, especially the periorbital, nasal and periocular area with a minimal morbidity and a pleasing result in a one stage outpatient setting. Level of Evidence: Level IV, therapeutic study