What is forehead flap surgery?
Forehead flaps are a surgical procedure that is mainly used to repair nasal defects. Nasal reconstruction has seen significant advancements in the modern era, though forehead flap surgery itself is not new.
The following surgeries use forehead flaps:
- Forehead flaps are used in the reconstruction of the nose tip because proper concealment of defects is essential to restore the desired look.
- Nasal defects larger than 1.5 cm can be better managed with a forehead flap.
Who should not undergo forehead flap surgery?
Certain factors may compromise the success of this surgery. Patients with the following medical conditions should not undergo this procedure:
- Underlying medical conditions, such as clotting problems and diabetes
- Deep scars across the forehead
- Previous skin cancer with significant chances of reoccurrence
- Poor patient compliance
- Nutritional deficits
- Serum albumin levels less than 3 g/dL
- Skin acne
- Use of tobacco products
How is a forehead flap procedure performed?
Before the surgery
- Discuss with the surgeon about goals, potential risks and post-surgery care.
- Detail any past medical and medication history.
During the surgery
- The patient will be given anesthesia to remain unconscious throughout the procedure.
- An outline or stencil to match the shape of the defect is placed on the forehead and marked.
- The flap from the forehead is cut out and then placed upside-down over the defect of the nose using fine stitches.
- To enhance the visual appearance of the reconstructed nose, the surgeon might remove bulky tissue if the flap seems too heavy or bulky.
After the surgery
Post-surgery instructions involve:
- Avoid applying excessive pressure.
- Wound care, including cleaning with diluted hydrogen peroxide.
- Protection from sunlight exposure for at least six months.
What are the risks of forehead flap surgery?
- Blood clots underneath the flap
- Bleeding from nose
- Nasal obstruction
- Infections
- A post-surgery clot in deep veins
- Numbness of the flap
- Displacement of hair-bearing skin
- Pale-colored or blue/purple-colored flap
What is the outcome of forehead flap surgery?
Generally, this surgery takes an hour to complete. The forehead flap procedure can take months to heal, depending on procedure types and the underlying condition of the patient. Long-term effects provide a good color match, inconspicuous scars and preferred nasal shape without excessive bulk.
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References
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How Much Does Forehead Reconstruction Cost?
The forehead encompasses one-third of the face and can be subjected to trauma. Forehead reconstruction is mainly done for defects because of trauma or tumor removal, or replacement of skin and the bony structure. The cost of forehead reconstruction surgery depends upon various factors, so consulting an experienced surgeon can help to review each of the costs.
Nasal Airway Surgery (Septoplasty)
Deviated septum surgery (septoplasty) and turbinectomy (nasal airway surgery) is performed on individuals who have a deviated or crooked septum or enlarged tissues (turbinates) within the nose. The goal of surgery is to improve breathing, control nosebleeds, relieve sinus headaches, and promote drainage of the sinus cavities. Risks and complications of surgery should be discussed with the surgeon prior to surgery.
Questions To Ask Before Surgery
Surgery is the branch of medicine that employs operations in the treatment of disease or injury. Prior to surgery you might consider asking your surgeon questions about the operation (procedure).
What Is an Iliac Crest Tissue Transfer?
Iliac crest is a commonly used bone and soft tissue that is used as a tissue transfer for flap surgery. Tissue transfer flap surgery is a method of repairing bone and tissue defects, especially in the head and neck after trauma or cancer surgery. Iliac crest tissue transfer is usually performed by plastic and reconstructive surgeons.
What Is Fasciocutaneous Flap Surgery?
Fasciocutaneous flaps are tissue flaps, which consist of skin and underlying tissues including fascia (a collagen-rich lining tissue). Fasciocutaneous flaps are used to provide coverage to bones and tendons in surgery when skin graft coverage is insufficient. Fasciocutaneous flaps are quick and reliable in healthy patients.