Cheek reconstruction

The cheek constitutes the facial periphery and plays a key role in the maintenance of oral competence and mastication. It is also involved in the facial manifestation of human emotion and supports neighboring primary structures.

The most common causes of acquired cheek defects are tumors, burns, and trauma. Congenital abnormalities in cheek contour may be due to facial clefts, vascular anomalies, or facial wasting syndromes. The repair of these defects seeks to achieve aesthetic and functional ends that must be carefully considered by the reconstructive surgeon.