Aesthetic Outcomes of Nasal Reconstruction Following Mohs Excision

PURPOSE

Nasal reconstruction following Mohs excision can be performed with several techniques. The authors sought to evaluate which procedures provided the most aesthetic results.

METHODS

A retrospective review was conducted on patients who underwent primary nasal reconstruction by the senior author following Mohs excision over an 8-year period. Data collected included patient demographics, smoking status, defect size, reconstruction method, and photo documentation. Patients were categorized into the following 4 groups: full thickness skin grafts (FTSG), local skin flaps, cheek flaps, and paramedian forehead flaps. Postoperative photos were assessed by a blinded plastic surgeon using a Likert scale for aesthetic outcomes. Ordinal logistic regression models were used to assess the adjusted effects of reconstructive technique, age, sex, defect size, and smoking status on outcome ratings.

RESULTS

One hundred forty-four (144) cases met inclusion criteria. The average patient age was 65.3 years. Distribution included 42 FTSGs, 60 local flaps, 13 cheeks flaps, and 29 forehead flaps. Reconstructions using local skin flaps and forehead flaps were statistically more likely to be rated favorably compared to those using FTSGs [local flaps: odds ratio (OR) = 2.79 (1.29-6.17), P = 0.011; FTSGs: OR = 2.84 (1.05-7.86), P = 0.043]. Larger defects negatively affected outcomes [OR = 0.90, confidence interval = (0.23-0.81), P = 0.019] in addition to any smoking history [OR = 0.43, confidence interval = (0.82-0.98), P = 0.019].

CONCLUSIONS

Local skin flaps and forehead flaps provide favorable aesthetic results in comparison to FTSGs for nasal reconstruction.

The Versatility of Keystone Flaps for Skin Cancer Reconstruction of the Nose

Nasal reconstruction has been a challenging problem for even the most experienced surgeon to provide excellent esthetic and functional outcomes. Although the bilobed flap offers distinct advantages for reconstructing these defects using an adjacent tissue with similar esthetic qualities, this flap has several potential limitations. The authors hypothesized that the conventional keystone flap and its variants provide a versatile and easily reproducible reconstructive option for nasal reconstruction after wide skin cancer excision. The authors retrospectively reviewed 12 consecutive soft tissue reconstruction data using 3 types of keystone flaps between May 2021 and July 2023. The authors reviewed all patients who underwent reconstruction with the keystone flap or its modification to repair cutaneous nasal defects following wide skin cancer excision. The authors reconstructed small- to medium-sized nasal defects ranging from 1×1 to 2.5×2.5 cm 2 with a mean size of 1.2×1.1 cm 2 using either a conventional keystone flap or its modification, including the Omega variant and rotation Hemi-keystone flap. All patients were satisfied with the esthetic outcomes. Keystone flaps are a versatile option for reconstructing the nose after cancer surgery. This strategy obviates the need for a bilobed flap after cancer removal in the nose.

Efficacy and feasibility of a forehead flap surgical guide for nasal reconstruction

For successful nasal reconstruction using a forehead flap, three-dimensional (3D) nasal defects need to be translated into a two-dimensional (2D) forehead surface. For this study, a patient-specific 3D-printed forehead flap guide that could precisely translate a virtually simulated nasal shape into a 2D flap template was developed. The study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of a 3D-printed forehead flap guide for nasal reconstructions. The 3D nasal surface was scanned using a 3D camera, and a 'digital clay' process was performed to correct the nasal deformity. The 3D morphology was flattened into a 2D forehead flap guide. The guide was 3D-printed and used for the forehead flap design. Photographic records were used to conduct anthropometric and aesthetic evaluations. Between October 2016 and August 2020, forehead flaps were performed using the forehead flap guide (guide group) and traditional templating method (control group) in 16 and 15 patients, respectively. The alar shape was more symmetric in the guide group than in the control group, with smaller right-to-left differences in alar width (p = 0.01) and height (p = 0.05). Regarding aesthetic evaluations, nose contour (p = 0.02) and nasal symmetry (p = 0.033) were better in the guide group than in the control group. The mean operative time was significantly shorter (91.9 ± 10.7 min) in the guide group than in the control group (116.4 ± 13.6 min) (p = 0.001). Our findings suggest that a 3D-printed forehead flap surgical guide can be effectively used in nasal reconstruction to reduce operative time and improve aesthetic outcomes.

Stair-Step Incision for Composite Grafts in Nasal Reconstruction

Composite grafts are excellent options for treating external nasal deformities because they provide support and include the skin, which improves the delicate anatomy of the nose. However, they are constrained by size limits since the grafts rely on blood flow to the nasal bed. This is a critical issue when the recipient sites have scarring or degenerative diseases. A novel stair-step incision was made to produce a graft bed with a blood supply and to maximize the use of nonvascularized composite grafts. Instead of making a full-thickness defect through the skin envelope and lining, we placed individual incisions and connected them via a subcutaneous dissection. By dividing the defect into 2 layers, the graft bed was produced and the risk of fistula was reduced. From 2009 to 2020, we satisfactorily conducted 3 cases of nasal reconstruction with a stair-step incision followed by a composite tissue graft. One patient was a girl, and 2 were men. Their ages ranged from 11 to 44 years. The largest graft was 24 × 24 mm in size. No complications were observed. The stair-step incision method for nasal reconstruction can eliminate the limitations of composite grafts and maximize improvements through a simple procedure. This makes composite grafts safer in cases with poor vascularity, enables larger composite grafts to survive, and lowers the risk of fistula formation by avoiding full-thickness defects.

Aesthetic Principles in Nasal Reconstruction after Squamous Cell Carcinoma Resection

"A successful nose reconstruction is represented by a normal look and nasal breathing preservation. The choice of method is based on the site, size, depth of the defect, donor availability, and surgeon experience. There are multiple methods of restoring nasal cover, from primary repair to healing by secondary intention, from primary suture, skin graft to locoregional flaps, but all of them should be integrated into a personalized approach, keeping the nasal functions, a good aesthetic outcome and without any tumor infiltration. This paper consisting of a retrospective study of 9 patients diagnosticated with squamous cell carcinoma revealed the importance of skin properties and skin changes during aging. Despite all aesthetic principles, skin is the most important resource in facial reconstruction. "

Feasibility, comparability and outcomes of three acquainted facial island flaps for periorbital defects reconstruction

Severe coloboma of ocular malignant neoplasms post-resection poses a reconstructive challenge to surgeons. To compare the practicability, manipulability and outcomes of temporal (myocutaneous) flaps (TFs), forehead (supratrochlear artery/supraorbital artery) flaps (FFs) and buccal (facial artery) flaps (BFs) for periorbital defects reconstruction, a retrospective case series was conducted and evaluated between March 2014 and March 2021. Patient demographics and clinical parameters including age, gender, pathological diagnosis, operative methods, flap selection, operation time, aesthetic satisfaction and follow-up period were collected. The differences in complications were compared and assessed of the three flaps, including flap survival, venous congestion and donor site healing. Totally, 68 patients who underwent periorbital reconstructive operations because of common ocular malignant tumours were reviewed in this study. As for aesthetic satisfaction, a score more than "moderately dissatisfied" was obtained in 21 patients with TFs (95.5%), and of which the scores in FFs group were 12 cases (60%) and 16 cases with BFs reconstruction (61.5%) (P < .05). Severe microvascular complications underwent re-exploration operation occurred in one patient with FFs (1.5%) (P > .05). Notable flap necrosis was observed in two patients with BFs repair (2.9%) and in one case with FFs repair (1.5%), with no statistical difference between the three flap selections (P > .05). Moderate venous congestion occurred in one patient with TFs (1.5%), which was fully meliorated non-surgically. The three familiar facial island flaps are considered as minor trauma and time-saving process for reconstructing the extensive periorbital defects with comparable ranks of complications.

Cheek Donor Site for Full-Thickness Skin Graft Repair of the Nasal Ala: Outcomes of a Retrospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Full-thickness skin grafts (FTSGs) are useful repairs for reconstructing nasal alar defects. Traditional donor sites include the preauricular, postauricular, and supraclavicular skin.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate esthetic outcomes and complications of nasal alar defects repaired with FTSGs from the medial cheek.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective chart review of Mohs surgery patients who had FTSG repair of the nasal ala between January 2015 and August 2020 was performed. Demographic, surgery, and follow-up visit data were reviewed. Cosmesis was rated by a facial plastic surgeon, a Mohs surgeon, and a plastic surgeon using baseline, defect, and follow-up visit photographs.

RESULTS

Sixty-nine patients with FTSG repairs of nasal alar defects were identified. 51 of 69 patients (73.9%) had the cheek donor site, and 18 of 69 patients (26.1%) had a noncheek donor site. The mean (SD) rater visual analog score for both cohorts was good with no significant difference (cheek: 65.9 [13.8]; noncheek: 66.1 [15.3]; p = .96). A notable difference in the complication rate by donor site was observed (cheek: 6.9%, noncheek: 16.7%; p = .13), although it did not reach significance.

CONCLUSION

The cheek is a reliable FTSG donor site for nasal alar defects after Mohs micrographic surgery, with a trend toward fewer complications.

Rintala Flap and Posterior Perichondrial Cutaneous Graft: A Combined Approach for Nasal Tip Reconstruction

Nasal tip reconstruction requires a meticulous approach due to the complexity of the nasal anatomy and its aesthetic importance. Many procedures have been described to restore this aesthetic unit, including the paramedian forehead flap, which is one of the workhorse flaps. However, despite excellent final outcomes, this procedure may be refused by patients, due to its temporary conspicuous appearance possibly associated with serious psychological implications, and the need of multiple interventions. We aimed to present an approach combining the Rintala flap and the posterior perichondrial cutaneous graft as a valuable alternative to treat large nasal tip defects.

Locoregional flaps versus skin grafts in the nose: aesthetic considerations after cancer ablation

Background The annual incidence of skin cancer has been increasing, and surgical ablation is presently the treatment of choice for skin cancer. However, it leaves soft tissue defects that require reconstruction. The methods for reconstruction include locoregional flaps (LRFs) and full-thickness skin grafts (FTSGs). We compared these two surgical methods for reconstruction of defects in the nose, which is prominently visible and the most common site of facial skin cancer, and assessed the cosmetic results by evaluating the scars.Methods This retrospective study was conducted between July 2012 and January 2021. Patients were evaluated for scars after at least 6 months of follow-up. Patients were divided into LRF and FTSG groups. The scars were evaluated using the Vancouver Scar Scale.Results In total, 27 patients were included in this study. Their mean age was 66.8 years. Eighteen patients underwent LRF, and nine patients underwent FTSG. The average defect size was 1.55 cm² in the LRF group, and 1.38 cm² in the FTSG group. The average scar score was 1.44 points in the LRF group and 3.67 points in the FTSG group. The LRF group showed significantly lower total scores than the FTSG group.Conclusions Although LRFs and FTSGs are useful reconstructive methods for nasal soft tissue defects, this study showed that LRFs are superior to FTSGs in terms of aesthetic results.

Using Modified Skin-Stretching Technique as an Alternative Solution for the Closure of Moderate and Extensive Skin Defects

External skin-stretching devices have been developed and used for wound closure since 1970s. Devices such as Miami STAR^®, SureClosure^®, TopClosure^®, and WiseBand^® have their own advantages and disadvantages. The modified external skin-stretching technique of this case series study has the advantage to improve tension distribution and simplified the application. Between January 2014 and June 2017, 20 patients were treated with the modified external skin-stretching device for the closure of the skin defects of the trunk (n = 6) and extremities (n = 14). Skin defects ranged from 8 × 5 to 19 × 16 cm achieved primary closure with the utilization of the modified skin-stretching device without major complications. Subsequent minor revisions were performed under local anesthesia between 6 and 12 months postoperatively. The modified skin-stretching device utilized biomechanical properties and mechanical creep of skin tissue to achieve a reliable and effective primary closure for moderate to extensive skin defects. Therefore, this modified external skin-stretching technique provided, in the appropriate setting, an effective alternative to skin grafts or free flaps.

Use of Keystone Flaps in Consideration of the Facial Aesthetic Subunit Concept as an Alternative Reconstructive Option for Nasal Defect Coverage

ABSTRACT

Nasal defect coverage has some challenging aspects for plastic surgeons because of the midfacial location of the nose and the relationship between convexities and concavities of nasal subunits. The authors described our experience with performing keystone flap (KF) nasal reconstruction in accordance with the facial aesthetic subunit concept and demonstrated the expanding versatility of KFs in nasal reconstruction. Between January 2017 and February 2020, 15 patients (average age, 72.07 ± 13.00 years, range: 38-88 years) underwent KF reconstruction for nasal defects. We performed KF reconstruction in accordance with the facial aesthetic subunit concept. Data, including the defect causes and locations, defect sizes, flap sites and sizes, types of KFs, flap survival, complications, and follow-up period for each patient were reviewed retrospectively. Cosmetic outcomes were evaluated by independent plastic surgeons and patients through satisfactory postoperative surveys. Sixteen defects occurred in 15 patients. The defect sizes ranged from 0.8 × 1 cm to 2.5 × 3 cm. The flap sizes ranged from 1.5 × 3.5 cm to 4 × 6 cm. All defects were successfully covered with KFs from adjacent subunits. All flaps survived without any postoperative complications. At the mean follow-up period of 8.33 ± 2.92 months, the objective cosmetic outcomes were rated favorably, and the average subjective patient satisfaction score was 7.93 ± 1.28 on a scale of 1 to 10. We suggest that using KF reconstruction in consideration of the facial aesthetic subunit concept can be a promising alternative modality for covering nasal defects with outstanding aesthetic outcomes.

Keystone Flaps for Coverage of Defects in the Posterior Neck and Lower Occipital Scalp: A Retrospective Clinical Study

ABSTRACT

The coverage of the posterior neck and lower occipital scalp defects should be approached carefully. Thick, stiff, and inelastic skin properties of these areas tend to make coverage of even small defects difficult. Herein, the authors present a retrospective review of our experience with posterior neck and lower occipital scalp reconstruction using the keystone flap (KF) and describe the expanding versatility of KF reconstruction. The medical records of 17 patients who underwent KF reconstruction to cover the posterior neck and lower occipital defect from April 2017 to May 2020 were reviewed. Clinical and operative data were collected. All defects were successfully covered with the KFs. The defect sizes ranged from 2.5 × 3.5 cm to 6 × 11 cm, and the flap sizes ranged from 3 × 5.5 cm to 9 × 18 cm. All flaps fully survived, although marginal maceration developed in one case; however, it healed with conservative management. The final results were favorable, and all patients were satisfied with their final outcomes. Consequently, the KF can be considered as a good reconstruction modality with few complications and provides an alternative to other reconstructive options for coverage of the posterior neck and lower occipital defects.

Combination of Extended Paramedian Forehead Flap and Laser Hair Removal in the Reconstruction of Distal Nasal Defect

AIM

The study sought to determine whether extended forehead flap by using part of the scalp combined with laser hair removal is a practical approach when repairing distal nasal defect.

METHODS

A retrospective study was conducted with 6 patients who underwent reconstruction of nasal defects with extended forehead flaps (including scalp combined with subsequent laser hair removal) at Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital between June 2016 and December 2018. Surgical data collected included age, causes of defects, sizes of defects, invaded nasal subunits, implantation of tissue expander, time elapsed between the formation of defects and surgical treatments, sessions of laser hair removal, and follow-up results. All patients had nasal defects after removal of a benign nevus (diameter, >1.5 cm), which invaded distal nasal subunits (including the nasal tip, soft triangle, columella, and nasal ala) and could not be repaired using adjacent tissue. Preoperative and postoperative assessments of esthetic outcomes were analyzed, including skin color and texture match, appearance deformity, and scar appearance.

RESULTS

All 6 female patients (ages 4 to 24 years) accepted the extended forehead flap technique and subsequent laser hair removal treatments. Among the 6 patients, 2 had nasal tip defects, 1 had a columella nasi defect, one had an alar defect, and 2 had multiunit defects. All transferred forehead flaps survived with no necrosis and underwent 2 to 5 subsequent laser hair removal treatments. The color and texture of the transferred flaps was similar to the adjacent skin in all patients. All patients were satisfied with the final outcome of the reconstructed nose with no obvious scarring during follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Extending the forehead flap using the scalp is a practical and safe approach for the repair of large and distal nasal defects. Subsequent laser hair removal can eliminate the hair follicles of the scalp and improve the appearance and color of the flap.

Outcomes of Two-Stage Interpolated Flaps Versus Single-Stage Techniques for Reconstruction of Intermediate Nasal Defects

Objective: This study compares the results of patients undergoing reconstruction of intermediate nasal defects, measuring 1.5-2.5 cm, with single-staged techniques as opposed to the traditionally recommended staged interpolated flap reconstruction. Design: This is a retrospective review of patients who underwent reconstruction of a nasal defect by a single surgeon between 2010 and 2016. Methods: Postoperative results including revision surgery, treating persistent edema with Kenalog (triamcinolone acetonide), and perioperative complications were analyzed. Aesthetic outcomes were analyzed by a panel of experts and nonexperts, and compared using a 5-point Likert scale. Results: In total, 51 single-stage and 26 two-stage patients underwent evaluation, and of these, 40 single-stage and 15 two-stage patients underwent panel analysis of aesthetic outcomes. The odds of requiring a revision procedure were 6.69 times higher and odds of using Kenalog postoperatively were 29.67 times higher in the two-stage group than in the single-stage group. Aesthetic scores were consistently better for the single-stage group for both panels. Conclusion: Patients undergoing single-stage techniques for reconstruction of intermediate nasal defects showed improved appearance and reduced number of additional procedures relative to patients undergoing two-stage techniques with short-term follow-up.

Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer at Critical Facial Sites: Results and Strategies of the Surgical Treatment of 102 Patients

Background

To evaluate the surgical treatment results of a consecutive series of patients with nonmelanoma skin cancer in critical facial regions such as the nose, lip, eyelid, ear, forehead, cheek, and chin.

Methods

This was a prospective observational cohort study evaluating the surgical treatment results of 102 patients with nonmelanoma skin cancer who underwent surgical excision and required some type of reconstruction. The reconstruction strategy used, histological type and margins, aesthetic result, and complications were evaluated.

Results

The most common facial site was the nose (48.01%), followed by the eyelid, ear, cheek, forehead, and lip. The most frequently used type of reconstruction was the advancement flap (30.39%), followed by transposition flap (27,45%), rotation flap (14.70%), and grafts (10.78%). Basal cell carcinoma was the most frequent histological type, accounting for 90.19% of the sample, with 54.90% of these cases being of the nodular subtype. Disease-free margins were obtained in 94.11% of the patients, and only one patient presented compromised margins and underwent marginal extension. A good cosmetic result was found in 93.13% of the participants.

Conclusion

Surgical treatment can provide excellent oncological, functional, and cosmetic results in the treatment of patients with nonmelanoma skin cancer at critical facial sites.

Reconstruction of nasal defects: contemporary approaches

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

There are many well-established principles and surgical techniques for nasal reconstruction. The purpose of this study is to describe contemporary reconstruction of nasal defects. The unique anatomic features of the nose make this a challenging task. Although obtaining an optimal esthetic result is always the goal of reconstruction, maintenance and restoration of nasal function are of equal importance.

RECENT FINDINGS

The first step of nasal reconstruction is a thoughtful analysis of the defect. The best surgical option will provide the patient with an excellent esthetic result and nasal function. Depending upon the extent of the defect as well as the anatomic site, a local flap, full-thickness skin graft, composite graft, or interpolated flap will provide the optimal result. The decision will depend on the surgeon's experience and expertise, as well as expectations and desires of the patient. Many cutaneous defects will require not only reconstruction of the defect, but also cartilage grafts to provide nasal contour and support. Most large or complex defects will require a paramedian forehead flap for reconstruction along with cartilaginous and/or bony support, as well as a lining flap.

SUMMARY

This study highlights recent advances in nasal reconstruction and novel modifications of well-accepted traditional techniques.

Reconstruction of Cutaneous Nasal Defects

Mohs micrographic surgery has become the standard of care for the treatment of cutaneous malignancies. Reconstructing cutaneous defects of the nose can be challenging, as form and function must be respected to the greatest extent possible. A wide range of reconstructive techniques are used. Secondary intent, primary closure, skin grafts, local flaps, and the interpolated workhorse flaps represent the spectrum of options, each with specific advantages and disadvantages. Vigilant postoperative care, including judicious use of adjunctive procedures, can improve outcomes. A subunit approach to reconstruction aids with surgical planning in order to achieve the best possible results.