Application of nasolabial flaps in repair of defects after midfacial skin tumor removal

Abstract

Objective To investigate the methods and effects of nasolabial flaps for repair of defects after skin tumor removal on midface. Methods From Augest 2012 to March 2015, the different flaps from nasolabial fold were utilized to repair 22 skin defects due to surgical removal of skin tumors on midface. There were 12 flaps with subcutaneous pedicle and 10 flaps with skin pedicle in the group. The size of the defects ranged from 0.5 cm × 1.0 cm to 4.0 cm × 5.0 cm. Results After operation, all flaps survived with primary healing, cosmetic results were satisfactory with conceal scar and no facial organs distortion after 1 month to 2 years following-up. No tumor recurrence occurred. Conclusions The nasolabial flaps with appropriate pedicles could obtain the satisfactory results for the reconstruction of medium-sized skin defects on midface, especially suitable for middle-aged and elderly patients. Key words: Nasolabial flaps; Face; Tumor; Defect; Repair