Early Takedown of Postauricular, Melolabial, and Paramedian Forehead Interpolation Flaps: A Retrospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND Staged interpolation flaps remain central to reconstructing complex facial defects, with traditional pedicle takedown occurring approximately 3 weeks postoperatively. However, prolonged pedicle duration may cause patient discomfort and impair quality of life. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the safety and outcomes of early takedown (<21 days) versus conventional takedown (≥21 days) across 3 commonly used interpolation flaps: postauricular, melolabial, and paramedian forehead. METHODS/MATERIALS Retrospective cohort study including patients who underwent one of the 3 interpolation flaps. Patients were stratified by takedown timing. Complication rates and flap characteristics were compared between early and conventional takedown groups. RESULTS A total of 141 patients were included: 75 postauricular (52 early), 38 melolabial (23 early), and 28 paramedian forehead flaps (14 early). Across all flap types, complication rates (infection, dehiscence, necrosis) were low and did not differ significantly between early and conventional takedown groups. Flap and defect sizes were comparable. CONCLUSION Early takedown of postauricular, melolabial, and paramedian forehead interpolation flaps at 2 weeks is safe and not associated with increased complications or poor surgical outcome.