Abstract
Side to side closure is defined as linear closure. Meticulous planning must be carried out so that inherent, vertical, and lateral restraints are optimized. Provided that function and form are conserved, then cosmetic appearance should be considered. The principles of tissue closure including free margins, aesthetic units, and relaxed skin tension lines should be carefully considered when performing side to side closures. This chapter discusses side to side closures as well as a number of complications that can occur when using this type of closure.