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Published on: October 18, 2021
"Beak"-plasty: a new effective modification of Z-plasty
Tomohisa Nagasao1, Junpei Miyamoto, Kaichiro Yoshikawa
1Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, School of Medicine, Keio University, Kyoto, Japan. nagasao@sc.itc.keio.ac.jp
Background:
Because the "lateral limbs" resulting from conventional Z-plasty form a steep angle against the relaxation skin tension line (RSTL), they often develop hypertrophic change, whereas the "central limbs" become inconspicuous after being realigned parallel to the RSTL.
Objective:
To alleviate the above-mentioned hypertrophic change of the lateral limbs, we modified the conventional Z-plasty and invented a new technique. Because the shape of the flap resembles a bird's beak, we call the technique "beak-plasty." The purpose of this study is to present the new technique.
Methods:
The technique is described and effectiveness of the technique is reviewed on 21 patients. In particular, three representative cases are presented with photographs.
Results:
In all patients, the lateral limbs of the flaps did not become hypertrophic after a minimum follow-up period of 9 months.
Conclusions:
Our technique can effectively reduce Z-plasty's risk of postoperative hypertrophy in the lateral limb. Therefore, it can make the scar less conspicuous than in conventional Z-plasty. For this advantage, we recommend our technique as an effective armament for scar revision. The authors have indicated no significant interest with commercial supporters.
