The use of combined nasolabial V-Y advancement and glabellar flaps for large medial canthal defects

Abstract

Background: Reconstruction of the medial canthal area presents many challenges for surgeons. It has many functional and cosmetic peculiarities. The combined use of glabellar and nasolabial V-Y advancement flaps is an effective method for repairing large medial canthal defects.

Objective: To describe and illustrate a technique to repair medial canthal defects.

Methods: Our experience with combined usage of nasolabial V-Y flap and glabellar flaps for medial canthal closure after tumor resection in 23 patients is reported.

Results: All resections and reconstructive procedures were performed under local anesthesia. All patients were treated without any complications such as flap loss, wound dehiscence, lymphedema, or ectropion. Fine results were achieved from both the functional and aesthetic point of view.

Conclusion: This combination has many advantages over skin grafts and other local flaps. It is easy to design, reliable, and offers good cosmetic results. This combination is recommended to plastic surgeons as a safe and effective procedure for reconstruction of medial the canthal area.