Reconstruction of the maxilla with bone grafts supported by the buccal fat pad.

In the usual reconstruction of maxillary contour, the grafts are usually exposed to the antral or nasal cavities. This leads to postponed remodelling and a higher rate of resorption and sequestration. To avoid exposure of the grafts, the buccal fat pad is rotated into the maxillary sinus and lined to the bone grafts. The vascularized buccal fat pad not only contributes to a better integration of the bone grafts but also enables the restoration of normal physiologic function of the maxillary sinus.