Modified Nasolabial Flap for Reconstruction of Surgical Defect Following Excision of Oral Submucous Fibrosis

A variety of reconstructive methods have been quoted in the literature for the reconstruction of defects created following excision of oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF). Nasolabial flap provided excellent function without compromising the aesthetics with little postoperative morbidity and good patient acceptance. This article details a modification of the nasolabial flap for reconstruction of extensive defects created by surgical excision of fibrous bands in OSMF in a 36 year old male patient with an interincisal distance of 10 mm. Nasolabial flap with fishtail modification was used to reconstruct the intraoral defect. Postoperative interincisal distance at the end of 6 months is 35 mm with an acceptable facial scar. Modified nasolabial flap can be used with minimal donor site morbidity to improve outcomes and to increase the distal extension to cover large defects.