Forehead Flap Practices: A Cross-Sectional Survey of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons

Facial Plast Surg Aesthet Med. 2024 May-Jun;26(3):256-261. doi: 10.1089/fpsam.2023.0115. Epub 2023 Dec 26.

Abstract

Background: The paramedian forehead flap (PMFF) is a well-established technique utilized for reconstruction of complex nasal defects. Objective: To identify the different techniques and management of patients undergoing PMFF reconstruction and compare these with current literature. Methods: Members of the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery were sent a practice survey highlighting various nuances in PMFF reconstruction. The survey included questions about flap design, operative techniques, and perioperative care. Results: In total, 172 responses were received (14% response rate). Mean years of practice after fellowship was 15.8 years with most respondents performing either 1-5 (33.1%) or 6-10 (27.3%) PMFFs per year. Common practices included the use of general anesthesia, elevation of PMFF in the subgaleal plane (59.6%), and pedicle division at 3 weeks (80%) (p < 0.001). Complication rates ranged between 1% and 5%. The nose was the most common site for revision (p < 0.001) and the average number of secondary procedures after forehead flap division was 1.1 (standard deviation 0.81). The most variability in responses was seen for methods of internal lining reconstruction. Conclusion: Reconstructive surgeons frequently divide the PMFF pedicle at 3 weeks or later and have variable approaches to reconstruction of the internal lining with low complication rates overall.

MeSH terms

  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Forehead* / surgery
  • Humans
  • Plastic Surgery Procedures / methods
  • Practice Patterns, Physicians'* / statistics & numerical data
  • Rhinoplasty / methods
  • Surgery, Plastic / methods
  • Surgical Flaps*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • United States