The buccal fat pad in oral reconstruction.

We describe the indications, advantages, and complications of the buccal fat pad (BFP) flap and report our clinical experience with the flap for intraoral reconstruction after tumour removal. METHODS: From 1993 to 2002, a pedicled BFP flap was used to reconstruct oral defects after tumour removal in 15 patients, prospectively analysed. RESULTS: Adequate closure of the defect was achieved. In seven cases there was some retraction of the BFP. CONCLUSIONS: The BFP, as a flap, offers a good and simple option in the reconstruction of small to medium defects in the oral cavity, above all in older patients. The greatest disadvantage is that reduction in oral opening could occur, to an unpredictable degree.