The Superiorly Based Nasolabial Flap for Simultaneous Alar and Cheek Reconstruction

A case analysis of an innovative application of the nasolabial flap for reconstruction of a simultaneous medial cheek and alar-base nasal defect is presented and concepts in nasal reconstruction are reviewed, and the authors' approach to alar reconstruction is presented.

Abstract

After studying this article, the participant should be able to: 1. Understand the epidemiology of skin cancer in a patient with preexisting skin cancer. 2. Understand the indications for the use of a nasolabial flap and nonanatomic alar strut graft. 3. Describe the blood supply to the nasolabial flap. The goals of reconstructing deformities of the face acquired secondary to skin tumors include optimizing donor-site aesthetics and reconstructing the area with similar types of tissue when possible. Multiple skin-cancer defects are often seen by the plastic surgeon and complicate the reconstruction, requiring more than one flap or skin graft. A case analysis of an innovative application of the nasolabial flap for reconstruction of a simultaneous medial cheek and alar-base nasal defect is presented. Concepts in nasal reconstruction are reviewed, and the authors' approach to alar reconstruction is presented.