The modified horn flap for nasal tip reconstruction

Abstract

Numerous flap design techniques have been proposed for soft tissue reconstruction of the nasal tip.The modified horn flap based on the superior alar artery and nasalis muscle is the preferred option for defects ranging in size from 1 to 2 cm vertically and 1.5 to 3 cm horizontally after skin cancer excision. This innovative technique is a reliable and versatile island flap for reconstruction of the nasal tip in a one-stage operation, providing successful functional and aesthetic results, as tissues for the flap are generated from the nose. The contribution of the superior alar artery, which forms the vascular axis of the flap, plays a vital role in flap survival – together with part of the nasalis muscle.

Keywords

• Horn flap
• Superior alar artery
• Nasal tip reconstruction
• Deckling incision