Alar Reconstruction with Subcutaneous Pedicled Nasolabial Flap: Difficulties, Considerations, and Conclusions for This Procedure

BACKGROUNDThe subcutaneous pedicled nasolabial flap is a useful material for alar reconstruction. OBJECTIVEThis article describes the difficulties and considerations in this procedure and discusses the procedural problems involved, drawing conclusions from them. METHODSCase 1a folded flap was used with a conchal cartilage strut sandwich. Case 2only a folded flap was used. Case 3the flap was used to cover the outer surface of the ala, and a mucoperiosteal graft from the hard palate was used for the ala lining. RESULTSThe cartilage strut was not sufficient to support the shape of the ala in case 1. Harvesting a sufficiently wide flap is thought to be important. However, a folded flap had some drawbacks, with the formation of a thick alar rim. CONCLUSIONSThe combination of a flap for the outer surface and a mucoperiosteal graft as a lining is thought to be an excellent option for alar reconstruction.