Reconstruction of Nasal Defects after Skin Cancer Excision by Paramedian Forehead Flap

Chun, Seung Min; Lee, Seung Chul

Abstract

BACKGROUND
Repairing large nasal defects in the nose gives us technical challenge. Despite the commonly available surgical techniques, paramedian forehead flap (PFF), an arterial flap, should be considered in repairing some of the large nasal defects.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness and cosmetic consequences of PFF for the reconstruction of large nasal defects after skin cancer excision.
METHODS
Between 2008 and 2011, 8 patients were treated with PFF for reconstruction of large nasal defects after Mohs surgery or wide excision. We reviewed surgical techniques, complications, and final results. Post-operative results were assessed with serial clinical photographs, physicians' objective records and patients' subjective records.
RESULTS
The size of surgical defects was ranged from 2.0 to 3.0 cm in their greatest diameter, involving at least 2 cosmetic subunits after tumor excision. Frequent involved sites were nasal tip and nasal dorsum. There were no significant complications, except transient bleeding and oozing. The cosmetic outcomes were considered as good or excellent in most of patients.
CONCLUSION
PFF is regarded as the recommended technique for the repair of large nasal defects, involving several cosmetic subunits, providing excellent cosmetic results with few complications.