title: Free-flap reconstruction of large full-thickness lip and chin defects.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  We describe our experience in the reconstruction of large 3-layer lip defects using free revascularized lower-arm and fibula flaps.
  
  
  METHODS
  Between 2005 and 2009, nine patients underwent free-flap reconstruction after oncological surgery involving the lip and chin with or without mandibular involvement. The flap techniques are described, and postoperative functional and aesthetic results were recorded.
  
  
  RESULTS
  There were no flap failures. All patients showed intact oral function and good aesthetic results. Two patients died of distant metastases, 8 months and 17 months after surgery.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Three-layer defects of the lip ideally require free-flap reconstruction, which has a high probability of achieving good functional and aesthetic results.
authors.affiliation: Center for Facial Plastic Reconstructive Surgery, Diakonessen Hospital Zeist/Utrecht, Zeist, the Netherlands.
authors.forename: Willem P
authors.initials: WP
authors.lastname: Godefroy
authors.forename: Willem M C
authors.initials: WM
authors.lastname: Klop
authors.forename: Ludi E
authors.initials: LE
authors.lastname: Smeele
authors.forename: Peter J F M
authors.initials: PJ
authors.lastname: Lohuis
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D002680:Chin / Q000601:surgery*; D002921:Cicatrix; D004954:Esthetics; D005153:Facial Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery*; D005260:Female; D058752:Free Tissue Flaps; D006801:Humans; D008046:Lip / Q000601:surgery*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009361:Neoplasm Invasiveness