Free Abdominal Fat Transfer for Reconstruction of the Total Parotidectomy Defect

Abstract

FAT reconstruction of the total parotidectomy defect is associated with greater blood loss from the FAT donor site and increased surgical time, but is safe and highly effective. These data suggest that the benefits of FAT reconstruction outweigh the additional increment in operative time and blood loss observed.

Free fat grafting in superficial parotid surgery to prevent Frey's syndrome and improve aesthetic outcome

“…It adds approximately 15 to 30 minutes of operative time, causes minimal additional blood loss, and does not lengthen hospital stay. 15,18 In the present study, sub-umbilical fat harvesting was simple, effective and without complications, and was utilised in all cases.…”

“…27 Abdominal free fat grafts have previously been used successfully in parotid surgery. 15,17,18 Fat is a favourable graft material following parotidectomy as it has a similar texture and consistency to parotid tissue. It is readily accessible, with multiple potential donor sites that leave minimal, well hidden incision scars.…”

Postoperative drainage in head and neck surgery

“…Studies have shown that the average duration of drainage in uncomplicated head and neck operations is between 2-4 days. [7][8][9][10] The presence of drains may in fact encourage further drainage by stimulating tissue reactions or by creating a suction effect.…”

Free Dermal Fat Graft Reconstruction of the Head and Neck: A Cosmetically Appealing Reconstructive Option

“…The deformity resulting from these ablative procedures are a significant source of cosmetic morbidity and postoperative dissatisfaction 1 . In order to maximize the ultimate cosmetic and functional outcome for an individual wound, the head and neck surgeon must possess a firm grasp of fundamental techniques, as well as the ability to use a reconstructive modality that meets the unique demands of each defect after a thorough defect analysis.…”