Purpose: Defects in the temporal region, whether congenital or acquired, result in aesthetically significant deformities. For example, bitemporal constriction is a frequent residual deformity in cranial vault remodeling in patients with trigonocephaly and scaphocephaly.

Current methods of temporal reconstruction such as synthetic implants or fat and bone grafts carry risks of extrusion, infection, minimal postsurgical growth, and unpredictable resorption. We present a novel surgical approach of reconstructing the temporal fossa utilizing the temporalis muscle.

Materials and Methods: Over the past five years, the primary author has performed over 50 temporalis turnover flaps, primarily incorporated as part of cranial vault remodeling for the surgical treatment of craniosynostosis. The anatomy of the temporalis region is reviewed, as well as the surgical technique. Specific patient cases are detailed.

Summary of Results: Our results demonstrate that the temporalis turnover flap reconstructs temporal defects with excellent aesthetic results. Donor site morbidity is minimal. Compared to alternative methods of temporal reconstruction, volume is effectively maintained with minimal resorption, and its growth is preserved over time.

Conclusion: The temporalis turnover flap is reliable and effective in reconstructing post-traumatic deformities of the temporal region; in addition, the technique can be easily incorporated in pediatric cranial vault remodeling procedures.