SMAS vs SCM flap: two surgical techniques in comparison

Objective: The purpose of this study is to compare the functional and esthetic results of facelift incision associated with sternocleidomastoid muscle flap (SCM) or with superficial musculoaponeurotic system flap (SMAS) in patients underwent to a subtotal or total parotidectomy for benign or malignant parotid lesions resection with facial nerve preservation.Material and Methods: A retrospective analysis of 160 patients, treated between 2005 and 2013 and ranging in age from 26 to 76 years, was performed. The 160 patients were divided into 2 groups: parotidectomy with facelift incision associated with superficial musculoaponeurotic system flap (group 1) and parotidectomy with facelift incision associated with sternocleidomastoid muscle flap (group 2). Each patient passed to a postoperative follow-up of 12 months, at least. Facial nerve dysfunction, Frey's syndrome, salivary fistula, cosmetic deformity and recurrence are the main complications associated with this surgery and considered in every group during the follow-up.Results: The statistical analysis, comparing both groups (the group 1 vs group 2), not revealed statistically significant differences. During the follow-up period, no recurrence developed in any of the groups.Conclusion: Both techniques are esthetically pleasant and efficacious to prevent of complications. So the choise of the surgical method could be surgeon-dependent.