Lower lip reconstruction with nasolabial flap - going back to basics

Abstract

Squamous cell carcinoma of the lower lip is frequent, and radical excision sometimes leads to complex defects. Many lip repair techniques are aggressive requiring general anesthesia and a prolonged post-operative period. The nasolabial flap, while a common flap for the repair of other facial defects, is an under-recognized option for the reconstruction of the lower lip. We describe the use of nasolabial flap for the repair of a large defect of the lower lip in a ninety year-old male, with good functional results and acceptable cosmetic outcome. We believe the nasolabial flap is a good alternative for intermediate-to-large lower lip defects in patients with impaired general condition.

Infolding of Nasolabial Flap: An Excellent Surgical Technique for Full-Thickness Defect of the Lip

“…All the described flaps have their own merits and demerits with variable degree morbidities in the postoperative period [1,17,18]. The authors have used the nasolabial flaps for the reconstruction of the lower lip defects because of their easy accessibility, reliability, ease of harvesting and reduced surgical time [1][2][3]8]. The rich subdermal vascularity of the flap allows for a 3:1 length: base ratio, which is usually achieved during surgery [1,8].…”

“…Reconstruction of the lip remains a big challenge, especially for larger defects involving the full thickness of the lip [1,2]. Various surgical techniques and flap designs have been previously described for the reconstruction of the lower lip, such as the Abbe-Estlander flap, Karapandzic flap, Bernard-Burow's procedure, Gillies fan flap, advanced/rotated regional flaps and free flap reconstruction associated with respective advantages and disadvantages [2][3][4][5]. Amongst them, the nasolabial flap is considered a unique flap for the reconstruction of the lower lip, providing adequate functional and aesthetic results.…”