A novel technique using a subcutaneously pedicled islanded prolabial flap for the secondary correction of bilateral cleft lip and nasal deformity

CONTEXT: The bilateral cleft lip and nose deformity frequently requires lip revision surgery at the time of secondary rhinoplasty. The goal is to achieve an adequate philtrum with a well-shaped Cupid's bow, white roll alignment and a central vermilion tubercle. AIMS: We have devised a new technique of using prolabial tissue tailored as an island of skin based on a subcutaneous pedicle for the secondary reconstruction of the philtral aesthetic unit in patients with bilateral cleft lip nasal deformity. SETTINGS AND DESIGN: This technique was used in 21 patients from March 2012 to August 2015. All patients had undergone primary lip repair at other institutions and required lip revision with simultaneous rhinoplasty. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: The objective criteria considered in the post-operative evaluation by the authors included improvement of philtral ridge projection, symmetry of philtral column and nasal sill and white roll continuity. The ten individual parameters were given a score from 1 to 4 (with 1 = lowest and 4 = highest for each individual parameter) and the total score was rated as 31–40 = excellent, 21–30 = good, 11–20 = fair and 0–10 = Poor. The patients' overall satisfaction was assessed at 6 months postoperatively to record their impression of the aesthetic improvement after our procedure. RESULTS: The follow-up period ranged from 6 months to 3 years. The prolabial flap had no post-operative complications. The authors' assessment judged 15 (71.4%) patients as having an excellent outcome and 6 (28.5%) patients as having a good outcome. All patients expressed subjective satisfaction with the post-operative appearance of their upper lip and rated their results as improved and overall satisfaction scoring was high. CONCLUSIONS: This technique is a new addition to the repertoire of procedures which already exist for the correction of bilateral cleft lip nose deformity. It is safe, reliable and has a good aesthetic outcome with no significant morbidity.