Objective To review the historical origin and development of thin flap and flap thinning technique. Methods A wide range of domestic and foreign literatures on thin flaps and flap thinning technique were reviewed. The background, definition, methods, problems, challenges, and future development of thin flap and flap thinning technique were summarized and analysed. Results Thin flap and flap thinning technique play an important role in the development of flap surgery, leading flap surgery towards a more rational and refined direction. Conclusion Thin flap and flap thinning technique are still hot topics in the future. With the development of thin flap and flap thinning technique, clinicians will have more " free” choices.
