Nasolabial flap for nasal tip reconstruction

BACKGROUND: The nasolabial flap is a pedicled flap with a wide description and application for use in lateral nasal wall, ala, columella, and intraoral reconstruction. It is a versatile flap that is well tolerated by the patient, with very acceptable donor-site scars. The soft and spongy nature of the flap, with its proclivity toward pincushioning, enhances its ability to recreate the convexity of the nasal ala but classically renders it a poor choice for nasal tip reconstruction. METHODS: In this article, the authors review a series of 80 nasolabial flaps, all performed by the senior author (J.F.T.) from 2002 to 2007. Thirty-eight flaps were used for partial or complete tip reconstruction. All patients were followed with postoperative photographs. RESULTS: There were three complications, with only one resulting in complete loss of the flap. CONCLUSION: Through modifications of the flap design, careful selection of the defect, and postoperative management, the nasolabial flap can provide a perfectly acceptable reconstruction option for nasal tip defects.