Upper lip flap for reconstruction of a full-thickness ala nasi defect

Aesthetic reconstruction of full-thickness ala nasi defects has always been a challenge to the surgeon. Although several techniques are available, none has proved to be ideal. In this paper we describe a flap from the upper lip for reconstruction of defects involving the alar base and full-thickness defects of ala nasi. A flap based on the columella-labial junction is rotated upward for reconstruction of the alar base or ala nasi. The donor site of the flap can be closed primarily. When ala reconstruction is indicated, an upper lip flap forms the inner lining of the nostril, and a skin graft is applied over it for skin coverage. With this flap, an appropriately positioned ala with natural contours may be reconstructed in one stage.