Osteocutaneous free flaps are optimal for reconstruction of composite mandibular defects. Plate reconstructions are fraught with complications. We propose the use of a latissimus dorsi free flap in a bilayer configuration with plate reconstruction for postmandibulectomy defects. From 2001 to 2006, 59 patients underwent free flap reconstruction for head and neck tumors. Twenty had reconstruction of composite mandibular defects. Four received osteocutaneous flaps (3 fibula, 1 scapular). Sixteen underwent soft tissue free flaps and plate reconstruction {radial forearm (7), latissimus dorsi (6), rectus Abdominus (3)}. Mean follow-up was 24 months. Complication rate for radial forearm flaps with plate was 57% (2 intraoral exposures and 2 orocutaneous fistulas). Complication rate for transverse rectus abdominus flap with plate was 33% (1 intraoral exposure). There were no complications with use of latissimus dorsi flap with plate. Our results using radial forearm and rectus abdominus flaps with plates correlate with reported rates. However, we found success using the latissimus dorsi muscle with plate reconstruction. It's length, width, and pliability allows for 3-dimensional folding creating a bilayer of protection. This technique significantly reduces the complications associated with mandibular reconstruction with plates. It should be considered in all patients who are not candidates for osteocutaneous flaps.