Incorporation of the W-plasty in repair of macrostomia

Macrostomia is an uncommon deformity, the features of which have been outlined. The importance of accurate preoperative marking of the normal landmarks and three-layered repair are stressed. Our technique combines triangular mucosal flaps at the commissure, reconstruction of the oral and buccal musculature, and skin closure using a W-plasty. This skin closure results in a less conspicuous scar while still preventing lateral drift of the commissure. We feel this is an effective surgical procedure that yields consistent clinical results.