Face-lift incision combined with sternomastoid muscular flap in parotidectomy.

[BACKGROUND] To improve the aesthetic outcome of a traditional parotidectomy, this study used a face-lift incision combined with a sternomastoid muscular (SCM) flap and compared the classical method with these techniques from the patient's perspective.

[METHODS] Between 2005 and 2007, 38 patients with benign parotid disease underwent surgery. The patients were retrospectively assigned to two groups according to the surgical technique used. Parotidectomy was performed using a combined face-lift incision and SCM flap for 18 patients (modified group). Another 20 patients received classical parotidectomy (Blair incision without reconstruction) (classical group). The patients were followed up every 3 months for 3 years. During the follow-up period, the patients were specifically asked about their satisfaction with their postoperative appearance.

[RESULTS] During the follow-up period, all the patients in the group that had the face-lift incision and SCM flap were satisfied with the aesthetic outcome, and the depression deformity was considerably less. Nine patients in the classical group were not satisfied with the aesthetic outcome.

[CONCLUSION] The face-lift incision and SCM flap technique can be performed safely with satisfactory cosmetic and functional results. It results in improved patient satisfaction without additional risk of complications.