Nose Reconstruction Using Local and Regional Flaps: The Challenges and Advantages.

Background: Nose is a central structure in midface. It has an important function in maintaining the aesthesis of the face. The three-dimensional (3D) structure of the nose is challenging to reconstruct. However, the availability of abundant vascularity and surrounding tissue is advantageous for the reconstruction of the soft tissue. Hence, this study was carried out to assess the cosmetic outcome and acceptability of patients undergoing nasal soft tissue reconstruction using local and regional flaps.

Materials And Methods: Patients undergoing nasal soft tissue reconstruction using local or regional flaps, between January 2017 and December 2018, were studied. Patients requiring free flaps or skin grafts for reconstruction were excluded from the study. All the patients during follow-up at 3-6 months were asked to rate cosmetic acceptability and donor site cosmesis as bad, good, and very good.

Results: In this study, 15 cases of nasal soft tissue reconstruction were studied. Among the 15 cases, 9 (60%) were male and 6 (40%) were female; the age range of patients was 7-65 years. Majority of the patients (5, 33.3%) had trauma as major cause of deformity. Post malignancy excision defect was the next major cause. All patients were happy with the results, only patient with composite graft complained regarding hyperpigmentation.

Conclusion: Nose is an important structure in the midface. Apart from olfaction and respiration, maintaining adequate cosmesis is also an important function of the nose. Any deformity of the nose can be devastating to the patient. But, the 3D structure with varied structures makes reconstruction challenging to recreate. However, the availability of adequate donor tissue in local and surrounding region makes it advantageous. If principles of reconstruction are followed strictly, the outcome is good. Tissue expansion can be used whenever soft tissue requirement is more.