SUMMARY : The purpose of this study was to review and evaluate various flaps and techniques employed for the reconstruction of complex perioral defects following resection for oral squamous cell carcinoma with particular emphasis on cosmetic and functional outcomes. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Evaluation of both 19 prospective and 35 retrospective study patients who underwent any perioral defect reconstruction were done based on aesthetic, functional and subjective criteria. RESULTS: No statistically significant difference was found between the aesthetic and functional outcome of different techniques used for perioral defect reconstruction and no statistically significant difference was found in the aesthetic or functional outcome after reconstruction of cheek or lip defect. CONCLUSION: The study suggests that reconstructive method varies for each patient undergoing tumor resection taking into consideration other factors like the patient’s age, gender, past medical history, treatment of the primary lesion, site and size of defect, surgeons skill and comfort with the technique and patient’s compliance.