Outcome Study after Nasal Alar/Peri-alar Subunit Reconstruction: Comparing Paramedian Forehead Flap to Nasolabial Flap

OBJECTIVE:Contours of the lower nasal third are unique and present challenges in surgical reconstruction. The nasal alar intricate curved anatomy makes the area easily compromised after Mohs surgery. Managing patient and surgeon expectations with regard to aesthetics and functionality remains the reconstructive goal. The purpose of the study was to compare patients’ perspective on aesthetics and functional outcomes of nasal alar reconstruction post Mohs ablative surgery using nasolabial or forehead flaps. METHODS:A single surgeon’s results of 23 patients, who underwent nasal alar reconstruction post Mohs surgery, were included for analysis (15 forehead and 8 nasolabial flaps). Initially, 103 consecutive patients undergoing nasal reconstruction were reviewed, with 67 excluded due to nonalar subunit involvement and an additional 13 excluded for other discussed reasons. Mean follow-up period was 2.3 years. Evaluation of a patient satisfaction questionnaire assessed aesthetics and functionality and also surgical scar noticeability. Additionally, 3 board-certified plastic surgeons assessed postoperative images. RESULTS:Twenty-three patients completed the survey. There was no statistically significant difference in gender ratio, follow-up time, or scar noticeability among groups. A difference was noted in both aesthetics and functionality score (P < 0.03) for both variables favoring forehead flaps. Results from the surgeon’s questionnaire also confirmed the superiority of forehead flaps concerning scar, alar contour/symmetry, and nostril opening symmetry. CONCLUSIONS:The forehead flap has a better functional and aesthetic outcome and an overall superior level of satisfaction post Mohs ablative surgery.