Defect Closure After Lesion Excision of the Face

Abstract

The options to close facial defects range from closure by secondary intent, which is the simplest of techniques in the reconstructive ladder, to a microvascular free flap, which sits at the highest rung of complexity in the reconstructive ladder. Consideration of reconstructive options for cutaneous facial defects generally start with the simplest options, but move up the reconstructive ladder as needed in order to achieve a functionally and cosmetically adequate outcome for patients. Along this gradient of options, the use of linear primary closures on the face is oftentimes a sufficient and reliable technique for most soft tissue defects encountered by surgeons.