Modified Abbé flap for reconstruction of Cupid's bow and vermilion tubercle in secondary cleft lip deformity

Abbé flap technique is one of the most challenging operations to correct horizontal deficiencies in secondary cleft lip deformity. Since its first introduction, the operative method was dynamically modified from simple variation to complete conceptual change, but conventional Abbé flap has many drawbacks in esthetic and functional aspect. Our purpose was reconstructing the symmetry of Cupid's bow and central vermilion tubercle with minimal sequalae.

From 2008 to 2016, this technique was applied to 16 secondary cleft lip patients who had total or more than 60% of unilateral deficiency of Cupid's bow and central lip or tubercle pouting deficiency. A quadrangular-shaped flap was transferred from vermilion including skin and white line of central or contralateral lower lip. Pedicle division and insetting were made at 9 (unilateral) or 10 (bilateral) days after transfer. Secondary lip revision was done with open rhinoplasty after wound maturation.

Overall satisfaction was high with modified technique. Scar was minimally noticeable on both upper and lower lip especially. Balanced Cupid's bow and symmetric vermilion tubercle were made with relatively small size of flap compared to conventional Abbé flap. An accompanying benefit was reduced ectropion of lower lip, which made balanced upper and lower lip protrusion with more favorable profile.

A new modified Abbé flap technique showed great satisfaction. It is worth considering in secondary cleft lip patient who has central lip shortage and asymmetry of upper lip vermilion border line. Our technique is one of the substitutes for correction of horizontal and central lip deficiency with asymmetric Cupid's bow.