Inferiorly based nasolabial flap for reconstruction of the moderate to large defects of lips following cancer resection

Abstract

Reconstruction of the lip defects following wide excision of the squamous cell cancer is challenging for the surgeon. Our aim was to define the role of the inferiorly based nasolabial flap for lip reconstruction in such cases with moderate to large size defects. Lip defects were reconstructed with a unilateral or bilateral subcutaneous nasolabial flaps depending on the size of the defect following wide resection of their lip cancers. All the defects were reconstructed in a single stage. We achieved good lip seal and at least good function in eating and speaking. There was no entropion of the lip, and all the reconstructed lips preserved their height. Simplicity of dissection, robust blood supply, best color match, short procedure time, and minimal donor site morbidity reinforce this flap as a useful adjunct in lip reconstruction. Level of Evidence: IV, therapeutic study.