Expanded forehead flap combined with local turnover scar flap for partial nasal defect reconstruction without...

This study evaluated a cartilage-free technique for reconstructing partial nasal defects using a combined expanded forehead flap and local turnover scar flap. In a 30-patient retrospective review, the four-stage procedure involved: forehead tissue expansion over 2.5-4 months; reconstructing the nasal lining with a scar flap 10% larger than the defect, then covering it with an expanded forehead flap 20% larger than the lining; a flap delay at 3 weeks; and pedicle division 1 week later. At a minimum 6-month follow-up, all patients completed reconstruction without major complications. Outcomes were excellent, with good skin colour match, inconspicuous donor-site scarring, and preserved eyebrow symmetry. Nasal contour was satisfactory and airway patency was unimpaired, though a minority had mild nasal tip rotation or reduced projection. This technique effectively reconstructs partial nasal defects, providing excellent aesthetic and functional results while avoiding cartilage grafting and minimizing donor-site morbidity.