A case of lower lip carcinoma in which reconstruction was performed with a lateral tongue flap based on the tongue dorsum

: Among the anatomical elements of the face, the lips, especially the red border, have a unique morphology and color tone; therefore, reconstruction of a lip defect is challenging from both functional as well as aesthetic viewpoints. We present a case of lower lip carcinoma in which reconstruction was performed using a lateral tongue flap based on the tongue dorsum with a good outcome. The patient was a 72-year-old man who complained of a sore left lower lip. A biopsy revealed squamous cell carcinoma, and partial resection was performed. The resection range was about one third of the left side of the lower lip, including the orbicularis oris muscle and preserving the left corner of the mouth. After tumor resection, the left lateral margin of the tongue was reflected based on the dorsum of the tongue and mounted on the corresponding half of the existing lip border. Three weeks after initial operation, the flap was surgically detached. Presently, 1 year has elapsed, and there has been no sign of recurrence; the color, shape, and lip-closure are good. These findings suggested that reconstruction using a lateral tongue flap for the treatment of a defect primarily affecting the lower red lip and involving the muscle layer resulted in good blood flow and excellent morphological and functional recovery.