Lower Lip Reconstruction Using the Karapandzic Flap Technique.

Abstract

The perioral region, comprising the upper and lower lips, plays important functional, aesthetic, and anatomical roles. Postoperative defects in perioral structures present a considerable challenge for reconstruction. Currently, reconstruction of perioral structures is performed using local, distant, and free flaps. Herein, we present a case of reconstruction with a Karapandzic flap after the excision of basal cell carcinoma in the lower lip. The patient was a 76-year-old man with a skin tumor on his left lower lip. He consulted a dermatologist regarding the tumor growth and was diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma upon biopsy. Dermatological excision of the tumor at a 7-mm margin resulted in a defect in half of the lower lip, cheek skin, and corner of the mouth. The defects were reconstructed using a Karapandzic flap for functional considerations. The patient was satisfied with his aesthetic appearance, and no functional deficits were observed. In conclusion, the Karapandzic flap is suitable for reconstructing large defects of the lower lip and can be completed quickly and safely in a single procedure.