Reconstruction of an Alar Defect With a Fusiform Nasolabial Turnover Flap With a Proximal, Superiorly Tapered Apex

The nasolabial turnover flap was first described by Spear et al in 1987 for the coverage of full thickness defects of the lateral ala. It offered a single-stage repair that recreated the internal nasal lining, the external nasal valve, and the rounded contour of the ala without requiring a cartilage graft. A frequently encountered problem with the execution of Spear's original design is elevation of the ipsilateral commissure of the adjacent lip due to its broad proximal pedicle. Here, the authors describe a fusiform-type design with a proximal, superiorly tapered apex that relies on anteriorly coursing perforators from the underlying angular artery. The authors also review the inherent advantages and disadvantages of the flap itself and the unique situation where there is a skin cancer adjacent to the donor site.