The pectoralis major myocutaneous (PMMC) flap is a reliable workhorse reconstruction we perform in-house to rebuild larger oral and facial defects after tumour removal, restoring bulk and lining.
How Do We Restore Your Mouth After Oral Cancer Surgery?
When treating advanced oral cancer, removing the tumor is the vital first step — whether through a glossectomy, jaw surgery, or wide excision. However, this surgical clearance often leaves a significant gap, or defect, in the tongue, jaw, or cheek. These areas are essential for breathing, speaking, and swallowing.
To help you return to normal life, we focus on rebuilding these structures immediately after the tumor is removed. One of the most reliable and time-tested methods we use is the pectoralis major myocutaneous (PMMC) flap reconstruction.
This procedure brings healthy tissue from the chest to the mouth, ensuring that the delicate structures of your face and neck are protected, and your essential daily functions are restored.
What is a PMMC Flap Reconstruction?
The pectoralis major myocutaneous (PMMC) flap is a reliable workhorse reconstruction performed in-house to rebuild larger oral and facial defects after tumor removal. It brings healthy muscle and skin from the chest on its own blood supply to restore bulk and lining.
Unlike free flaps which require reattaching tiny blood vessels under a microscope, the PMMC flap remains connected to its original blood supply in the chest. This makes it an incredibly robust and dependable option, especially for patients who may not be candidates for prolonged microscopic surgeries.
The flap consists of three primary components:
Muscle layer: This provides necessary bulk to fill deep spaces and protect the major blood vessels in the neck.
Skin paddle: This is used to replace the lost lining inside the mouth, such as the floor of the mouth or the tongue.
Blood vessel pedicle: The main artery and vein that keep the transferred tissue alive and healthy.
What to Expect During the Flap Surgery
Your reconstructive surgery is planned and executed in tandem with the tumor removal. Dr. Pradeep S. and Dr. Kalpa Pandya work closely to ensure a seamless transition from oncology clearance to tissue reconstruction.
The procedure is performed under general anesthesia and involves several precise steps:
Tumor clearance: The diseased tissue in the mouth is removed by the surgical team.
Flap harvesting: An incision is made on the chest to gently lift a section of the pectoralis major muscle along with a matching segment of skin.
Tunneling: The harvested tissue is carefully passed under the skin of the neck into the mouth defect.
Insetting: The tissue is meticulously stitched into place to seal the oral cavity and restore the lost lining.
Recovery and Rehabilitation After Mouth Reconstruction
Healing after a major reconstructive procedure takes time, patience, and professional guidance. Our team supports you through every stage of your recovery to ensure the best possible functional outcome.
In the days following surgery, we monitor the transferred tissue closely to ensure healthy blood circulation. Your recovery plan will typically focus on three key areas:
Wound care: Both the chest incision and the neck sutures are monitored and dressed regularly to prevent infection.
Speech and swallowing therapy: A specialized therapist helps you safely transition from a temporary feeding tube back to eating soft and solid foods.
Shoulder mobility: Because muscle is taken from the chest, gentle physical therapy is introduced early to maintain full range of motion in your shoulder.
Expert Reconstruction by Our Chennai Maxillofacial Surgeons
Rebuilding the mouth and face requires a deep understanding of both cancer surgery and functional anatomy. Dr. Pradeep S. and Dr. Kalpa Pandya bring decades of combined experience in oral & maxillofacial surgery (OMFS) and head and neck oncology.
We believe in a collaborative, patient-first approach. For complex cases requiring extensive care, we coordinate closely with the wider surgical team at our affiliated Apollo or partner hospitals to ensure you receive seamless, comprehensive treatment.
Dr. Pradeep S. is a consultant oral & maxillofacial surgeon with super-specialty focus in head & neck surgical oncology, practicing at Apollo Main Hospital, Greams Road, Chennai.
Dr. Kalpa Pandya is a consultant oral & maxillofacial surgeon with over 10 years of experience, specializing in oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMD) and reconstruction at Sri Ramachandra Medical Centre, Porur, Chennai.
Consulting Our Specialists for Flap Surgery for Oral Cavity Defect
Choosing the right reconstructive option is a highly individualized process, and PMMC flap surgery is one part of our wider oral reconstruction care. During your consultation, we will thoroughly review your medical history, imaging scans, and specific surgical needs to determine if a PMMC flap is the safest and most effective choice for you.
Our practice is dedicated to providing compassionate, clear, and realistic guidance at every step of your treatment. We make sure you and your family understand exactly what to expect before, during, and after your surgery.
Our practice is dedicated to providing comprehensive oral cancer reconstruction to help you regain your quality of life. Patients travel to our Chennai clinics from across Tamil Nadu and the wider South India region for our specialized reconstructive care, and we warmly welcome outstation patients seeking a remote second opinion.
What to expect
1Defect assessment
2Flap harvest
3Inset & reconstruction
4Recovery & rehabilitation
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A pectoralis major myocutaneous (PMMC) flap is a reconstructive surgery where tissue consisting of muscle and skin is transferred from the chest to the mouth or neck. It is used to rebuild the oral cavity and restore swallowing and speech after major cancer surgery.
Why is chest tissue used for oral cancer reconstruction?
The pectoralis major muscle in the chest is thick, strong, and has a highly reliable blood supply. This makes it an excellent choice for filling large gaps, protecting vital neck structures, and replacing the lining of the mouth after tumor removal.
How much does PMMC flap reconstruction cost in Chennai?
The cost of PMMC flap reconstruction in Chennai varies based on the complexity of the defect, hospital stay duration, and choice of facility. Because this is a medically necessary reconstructive procedure, it is typically covered by most health insurance policies. Our team assists with all insurance documentation.
What is the recovery time after PMMC flap surgery?
Most patients remain in the hospital for 10 to 14 days for close monitoring. Initial healing of the chest and neck wounds takes about 2 to 3 weeks, while full functional recovery and adjustment to swallowing and speaking can take several weeks of therapy.
How soon can I get an appointment or second opinion?
We prioritize urgent oral oncology and reconstructive cases. You can typically schedule an in-person consultation or a remote second opinion with Dr. Pradeep S. or Dr. Kalpa Pandya within 24 to 48 hours. Please share your medical records and biopsy reports when booking.
Will I be able to speak and eat normally after this surgery?
Yes, the primary goal of the PMMC flap is to restore the structures needed for speaking and swallowing. While there is a temporary adjustment period and a need for speech therapy, most patients successfully return to a soft or normal diet.
Will there be visible scarring after the procedure?
There will be a scar on your chest where the tissue was harvested, and a scar on your neck where the flap was inset. Our surgeons use precise, layered closure techniques to ensure these scars heal as cleanly and discreetly as possible over time.
PMMC flap in Chennai
Our reconstructive surgeries are performed at leading medical centers in Chennai. Dr. Pradeep S. provides consultations at Apollo Main Hospital on Greams Road, while Dr. Kalpa Pandya serves patients at Sri Ramachandra Medical Centre in Porur, ensuring accessible, high-quality care across the city.
