BACKGROUND: The reconstitution of a nasal alar rim and lobule defect represent a difficult challenge in consideration of his situation, anatomy and function. This article describes the technique and the interest of the nasolabial flap when used to cover the entire alar subunit. METHODS: We present 7 cases of alar rim and lobule defect after skin cancer excision. In the series, there are two full-thickness with lining defect. The patients were reconstructed with a superiorly based nasolabial flap, according to the subunit principle as introduced by Burget. A free cartilage graft was used to restore structural support with marginal skin flaps were turned over for intranasal lining when necessary. RESULTS: The cosmetic and functional outcomes of each repair were judged from good to excellent by patients and surgeons. No case of flap infection or necrosis occurred. CONCLUSION: The superiorly based nasolabial flap, describe by Burget, provides an excellent choice for cosmetic and functional reconstruction of the nasal alar defect.
BACKGROUND: The reconstitution of a nasal alar rim and lobule defect represent a difficult challenge in consideration of his situation, anatomy and function. This article describes the technique and the interest of the nasolabial flap when used to cover the entire alar subunit. METHODS: We present 7 cases of alar rim and lobule defect after skin cancer excision. In the series, there are two full-thickness with lining defect. The patients were reconstructed with a superiorly based nasolabial flap, according to the subunit principle as introduced by Burget. A free cartilage graft was used to restore structural support with marginal skin flaps were turned over for intranasal lining when necessary. RESULTS: The cosmetic and functional outcomes of each repair were judged from good to excellent by patients and surgeons. No case of flap infection or necrosis occurred. CONCLUSION: The superiorly based nasolabial flap, describe by Burget, provides an excellent choice for cosmetic and functional reconstruction of the nasal alar defect.