A Method for Reconstruction of Vermilion Tubercle

• Published in: Plastic and reconstructive surgery. Global open Vol. 2; no. 5; p. e145
• Main Authors: Wu, Li-Jun, Zhao, Tian-Lan, Yu, Dao-Jiang, Yu, Wen-Yuan, Chen, Qi, Han, Wen-Ya
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States American Society of Plastic Surgeons 01.05.2014; Wolters Kluwer Health; Wolters Kluwer
• Subjects: Original
• ISSN: 2169-7574; 2169-7574
• DOI: 10.1097/GOX.0000000000000054

BACKGROUND:This article reports on the bilateral lip mucosa flaps (BLMFs) for reconstruction of the vermilion tubercle of the corrected cleft lip deformity. METHODS:From 2005 to 2013, the bilateral mucosa flaps procedures were performed on 34 secondary cleft lip patients (bilateral, n = 25; unilateral, n = 9). We retrospectively reviewed the pre-, intra-, and postoperative data of these 34 cases receiving BLMFs. RESULTS:Satisfactory results were obtained, both cosmetically and functionally, in all 34 patients. Lateral projection measurements of the reconstructive vermilion tubercle showed a mean increase of 151%. There were minimal perioperative complications. The color and texture matched well with the surrounding tissue. The postoperative scars are not remarkable at all. CONCLUSIONS:The technique is relatively simple. The BLMFs provided a versatile and reliable option for the reconstruction of the vermilion tubercle from secondary cleft lip deformities.