Nasal reconstruction: an analysis of a series of cases

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Nasal reconstruction is challenging because of the central position and role of the nose in the face. Minor defects in this region become obvious. A retrospective analysis of 146 nasal reconstruction surgeries in the Integrated Plastic Surgery Services of the Ipiranga Hospital (SICP-HI) was performed, evaluating the incidence of nasal defects, as well as the main surgical techniques performed in accordance with each nasal region.

Methods:

A retrospective descriptive study through a review of 109 medical records and photograph archives of patients treated in SICP-HI, São Paulo, SP, from January 2011 to June 2014.

Results:

A total of 146 surgeries were performed. The mean patient age was 67 years. Regarding the type of malignant tumors found, 104 (73%) were basal cell carcinoma and 3 (2%) were squamous cell carcinoma. The remaining 36 (25%) lesions were benign. The most affected nasal regions were as follows: nasal wing, 55 (38%); the dorsum, 36 (25%); tip, 26 (18%); sidewalls, 12 (8%); unspecified, 7 (5%); total involvement of the nose, 5 (3%); and the columella, 2 (1%). There was a preference for primary closure of the defect. However, if this was infeasible, local flaps were used, in agreement with the literature.

Conclusion:

The nasal aesthetic subunits can be reconstructed using a variety of surgical techniques. The surgeon should seek an appropriate aesthetic and functional outcome.

Keywords:
Nasal surgical procedures; Basal cell carcinoma; Squamous cell carcinoma; Skin cancer; Surgical flaps.