Reconstruction of lower lip defects with chimeric nasolabial flap with buccal artery myomucosal flap

Purpose

This study aimed to evaluate a chimeric flap comprising a nasolabial flap and a buccal artery myomucosal flap used to reconstruct a large defect of the lower lip.

Materials and methods

From November 2019 to August 2022, seven patients with lower lip carcinoma underwent radical resection and reconstruction. A chimeric flap comprising a nasolabial flap and a buccal artery myomucosal flap was used to reconstruct the large defect of the lower lip. Postoperative observations included flap healing, mouth opening, and lip competence.

Results

Seven patients with lower lip carcinomas underwent radical resection and reconstruction. The flap survived without complications in 6 patients; 1 patient showed marginal necrosis of the skin paddle. The reconstructed lower lip had an adequate lip length and height, and its appearance was acceptable. The mouth opening ranged from 2.5 cm to 3.5 cm. All patients were able to intake oral diet in a public setting.

Conclusions

The chimeric flap, comprising a nasolabial flap and a buccal artery myomucosal flap, offers a method for reconstructing near-total and total defects of the lower lip.