Experience with the modified defatted nasolabial transposition flap in nasal reconstruction

The nasolabial flap is the classic flap for reconstruction of nasal defects. During the last five years we have used a modified nasolabial flap in which the distal part of the flap is defatted leaving only the dermis and epidermis intact. This distal part of the flap is then folded and used as inner or outer lining which creates a reconstruction that is thinner than the original folded flap. We have used this technique in 11 patients and the results are satisfactory, with only three patients requiring minor corrections.