Omega incision face-lift approach and SMAS rotation advancement flap in parotidectomy for prevention of contour deficiency and conspicuous scars affecting the neck

Abstract

To overcome the disadvantages after the surgical removal of tumours of the parotid gland, especially the depressed facial deformity and conspicuous cervical scar formation subsequent to parotid surgery, we have concentrated on omega face-lift incision in combination with an SMAS rotation advancement flap for the last several years using a lazy omega incision. Nine patients (3 male and 6 female) ranging in age from 43 to 68 years (mean age: 56.3 years) fulfilled the selection criterion of having a clinically benign discrete parotid lump with a benign preoperative fine needle cytology result. Parotidectomy was performed using the modified omega face-lift incision in conjunction with the rotation advancement SMAS flap. All patients underwent follow-up every 3 months in the first year. During the follow-up, the patients were specifically asked about their satisfaction with the post-operative appearance and whether they would consent to the operation again. The vascularized SMAS rotation advancement flap is clinically simple to perform and provides satisfactory cosmetic and functional results in patients undergoing conservative parotidectomy. There are no drawbacks in the use of modified face-lift incision to remove tumours of the parotid gland.