Use of Dorsal Nasal Flap in Combination With Nasolabial Perforator Propeller Flap for Reconstruction of Nasal Skin Defects of Medium to Large Size; A Simpler Alternative to Frontal Flap

Abstract

Nasal reconstruction is one of the most challenging procedures in plastic surgery. To get optimal aesthetic and functional results, the surgeon should know all the options well. Forehead flap is the gold standard technique for closure of medium to large defects of the nose. Although it provides a very good color and texture match, it may become a difficult option in patients with poor condition. The aim of this study was to define a simpler technique for nasal reconstruction using combined local flaps. Twelve patients, operated using a dorsal nasal flap combined with a nasolabial perforator propeller flap, were presented in the study. Properties of the patients, defect size and locations, and complications were evaluated. The mean size of the reconstructed defects was 10.1 cm(2). No flap loss was observed. Venous congestion was the most common complication and resolved spontaneously in all cases. Two cases had partial distal necrosis, which also healed spontaneously. Closure was achieved successfully in all cases with a medium to large nasal defect using a combined dorsal nasal flap and nasolabial perforator propeller flap. This method can be used as an alternative to forehead flap.