Basal cell carcinoma of the cheek, malar region, and lower eyelid: the role of large cheek-neck flaps.

A retrospective study was performed analyzing 521 consecutive patients who had either lower eyelid, malar region, or cheek reconstruction performed from January 1960 through December 1985. Of the group, 285 patients had basal cell carcinoma (BCC) of the cheek and malar regions, and 236 had BCC of the lower eyelid. In this paper we reevaluate and illustrate the repair of different-sized lower eyelid, malar, and cheek defects at various locations by interpolated sliding skin flaps from the cheek and neck. Very satisfactory aesthetic results have been obtained and have been evaluated with follow-up observations and treatment discussed. In the reconstruction of soft-tissue defects in these areas, large cheek (or cheek and neck) flaps are preferred in 26 cases. This report shows three examples of the surgery.