Management of buccal space tumors by rhytidectomy approach with superficial musculoaponeurotic system reconstruction.

[PURPOSE] To show that the rhytidectomy approach without a submandibular limb can be successfully used for excision of buccal space tumors and how this technique allows reconstruction of the contour defect associated with tumor extirpation by utilization of the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) interposition.

[PATIENTS AND METHODS] Five cases of buccal space tumors are presented: two accessory lobe of parotid tumors, one parotid duct cyst, one nodular fasciitis of anterior masseter, and one lymphoma.

[RESULTS] Rhytidectomy approach without a submandibular limb incision afforded adequate exposure to the tumors with excellent cosmetic results. Furthermore, SMAS interposition, which was allowed through this technique, ameliorated the contour defect created.

[CONCLUSION] Rhytidectomy approach with SMAS interposition is effective for management of buccal space tumors.