Abstract: Objective To explore the application of the submental artery island flap in repairing facial soft tissue defect. Methods From July 2007 to 2014, 10 cases with facial soft tissue defect were admitted in this study. Primary lesions in-cluded trauma (2 cases), buccal mucosa squamous cell carcinoma (SCC, 4 cases), buccal basal cell carcinoma (BCC, 1 case), and scar hyperplasia caused by burning or scalding (3 cases). Flaps ranging from 3 cm ×6 cm to 4 cm×10 cm were designed according to the size and location of the facial defects to repair facial soft tissue defects. Results Pale, swell and/or conges-tion were observed in all flaps postoperative, but the situation improved 5 days later. Partial necrosis was observed in 1 case but healed by dressing. All the patients were followed up for 3-12 months, full thickness skin which was used to cover the donor-site in 3 cases shrank inordinately during followed-up. Appearance and functions of the recipient site were satisfacto-ry. The scar of the donor-sites was not conspicuous. Conclusion The submental artery island flap is similar with the facial soft tissue on color and texture, and it offers the advantages of simplicity, reliability and aesthetic result, so it is an excellent choice for repairing facial defects and deformity.

Key words: Submental artery, Flap, Facial region