Nasolabial Flap

Abstract

The nasolabial flap is primarily used for nasal reconstruction and most frequently for full-thickness alar reconstruction due to the tissue’s location, texture, color, and bulk. The inferiorly based flap is most often used for alar reconstruction, while the superiorly based flap may also be used for nasal sidewall as well as alar reconstruction. Regardless of whether the flap will be superiorly or inferiorly based, the critical component of the patient marking is placement of the medial incision in the nasolabial or nasofacial crease. In the younger patient, consideration must be given to the donor site scar.