Lower vermilion defect repair after dog bite injury : a mucosal flap

Objectives. The lip is a functional and aesthetic unit, whose injury repair requires technical attention and psychological care. Methods and Discussion. We present a case of a 17-year-old girl with multiple lesions in the lip region caused by a dog bite, including an orbicularis muscle break, full-thickness defect and loss of substance in the central inferior vermilion. Several different techniques have been described to repair this area. We overview the principal reconstruction techniques, their characteristics and indications. We used a conservative procedure in order to respect all tissues and avoid further scarring. The major defect was repaired by a pedicled mucosal flap from the inferior fornix as the tissue is identical and in order to avoid retraction. We discuss the advantages and disadvantages of our solution. Results. The aesthetic and functional results were satisfactory. Conclusions. In our experience, facial trauma may be conservatively treated and it is useful to wait before performing massive reconstruction, especially in young patients.