[Application of local skin flaps in adjustment of reconstructed nasal alars at second stage].

Objective: To investigate the effectiveness of local skin flaps such as V-Y advancement flap (V-Y plasty) and transposition flap (Z plasty) in the adjustment of reconstructed nasal alars at second stage.

Methods: Between June 2012 and January 2017, 14 cases of reconstructed nasal alars by nasolabial flap or expanded forehead flap were recruited. There were 9 males and 5 females with an average age of 34.8 years (range, 18-52 years). The interval time between one- and two-stage operations was 1-12 months (mean, 3 months). The type of local skin flap was decided according to the flaws of reconstructed nasal alars. V-Y plasty was used in 5 cases, Z plasty in 2 cases, and V-Y plasty combined with Z plasty in 7 cases.

Results: All operations were successfully completed. The flaps in 3 cases suffered from epidermal necrosis at the far end and healed by dressing change. The other wounds healed by first intention. All 14 cases were followed up 6-40 months (mean, 12 months). The nasal alars had verisimilar shape and symmetrical appearance. The color and texture of reconstructed nasal alar were closed to peripheral tissues.

Conclusion: Applying local skin flaps such as V-Y plasty and Z plasty can acquire a better shape in the adjustment of reconstructed nasal alars.