Use of De-Epithalialized Flap for Elevating the Alar Base in Patients with Cleft Lip

Abstract

Alar base asymmetry is a common problem in cleft lip patients. Caused by a lack of bone support and soft tissue deficiency, it is one of the problems that must be corrected during cleft lip repair. While it is encountered during primary lip repair, it can also be seen as a secondary cleft lip nasal deformity after repair. This study aimed to provide alar base symmetry with a de-epithelialized muscle-skin flap during the primary cleft lip repair of incomplete cleft lip patients and secondary cleft lip deformity repair. In incomplete cleft lip patients, the tissue under the incomplete part is de-epithelialized and elevated as a superiorly based flap. The flap is rotated and sutured under the alar base for the elevation. In secondary patients, scar tissue to be removed is de-epithelialized and elevated as a superiorly based flap. It is turned over and sutured under the alar base for augmentation. The effect of the surgery is monitored during the follow-up period. There were no complications related to the flap, and no volume loss was observed. Using a de-epithelialized musculocutaneous flap, the augmentation of the alar base and nasal sill can be achieved without additional incisions in patients undergoing primary incomplete cleft lip repair and in patients undergoing secondary cleft lip deformity repair. We think it is an effective and safe method, improving the esthetic outcomes of cleft lip patients.