NASAL RECONSTRUCTION USING A COMBINATION OF ALLOPLASTIC MATERIALS ANDAUTOGENOUS TISSUES - A SURGICAL ALTERNATIVE

Re-creation of a functional and aesthetically acceptable nose after pa rtial nasal defect requires accurate reproduction of nasal lining, sup port, and coverage. Most authors recommend an approach to reconstructi on with cantilevered bone grafting and paramedian forehead flap placem ent. The authors propose an alternative approach for selected patients with total or near-total nasal defects combining both alloplastic and autogenous tissues. This method uses vitallium or titanium mesh for t he dorsal framework formation, tissue-expanded paramedian forehead fla p for soft tissue coverage, and composite chondrocutaneous auricular g rafts for tip reconstruction. Nine individuals underwent nasal reconst ruction using this method. The indications, details, and potential adv antages of this technique are described with accompanying photographic results. A flexible approach using a combination of alloplastic mater ials and autogenous tissues provides additional reconstructive options for individuals with total or near-total nasal defects.