Local flap for reconstruction of nasal tip defect: functional and aesthetic evaluations

Objective: To introduce the experience of reconstruction of nasal tip defect, which could obtain good functional and aesthetic results.

Methods: Based on the aesthetic subunit principle, according to the size, shape, depth of nasal tip defect, and the conditions of surrounding skin, homologous local flap (include: frontonasal flap, bilobed flap, nasolabial flap, reforming rhomboid flap and forehead flap, etc.) was designed to cover the defect wound. The secondary defect of donor area was directly sutured.

Results: A total of 83 patients with nasal tip defect were treated by local flap transfers. The area of the defect ranged between 0.6 x 0.6 cm and 2.5 cm x 2.5 cm. The nasal tip defect was successfully closed in all patients, and all flaps survived well without obvious complications. 76 out of these 83 patients were available for follow-up from 1 to 36 months. The repaired tissue was in good match with surrounding tissue, with nice nasal contour, and cosmetic results were satisfactory. No tumor recurrence occurred.

Conclusions: Based on the nasal aesthetic subunit principle, local flap could be used to reconstruct the nasal tip defect below 2.5 cm x 2.5 cm, and obtain good color, contour and texture in match with the surrounding skin. Cosmetic results were satisfactory.