Tongue Flap for Total Full Thickness Upper Lip with Vermillion Reconstruction: Case Report

Abstract

Lips play an important role in the function of the oral stoma. Lips also have a vital aesthetic role in the face. Lips are typically reconstructed by local, regional, or free flaps. Tongue flaps have been used for reconstruction of oral and palate defects resulting from congenital disorders, trauma, infection, and surgery. Because of its versatility, rich blood supply, and position, the tongue flap is reliable for defect reconstruction. In this study, we report a case of an upper lip full thickness defect managed with a tongue flap. The results were functionally and aesthetically excellent. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first attempt to reconstruct a full upper lip defect using the tongue.