[Synchronous correction of lip and nasal deformity in complete bilateral cleft lip].

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the technique and its therapeutic effect of synchronous correction of lip and nasal deformity in complete bilateral cleft lip.

METHODS

29 patients with complete bilateral cleft lip underwent synchronous correction of lip and nasal deformity with the modified Mulliken method for Asians. The philtral flap was 6-7 mm in length, and 3-4 mm in width at the collumellar-labial junction. The distance between the peaks of cupid's bow was 4-5 mm. The bilateral edge of philtral flap was de-epithelialized and advanced to form philtrum column. The lateral lip was advanced to the medial site, and the central vermilion tubercle was constructed with the bilateral vermilion-mucosal flap. Through the alar rim incision, the displaced cartilage was dissected and repositioned to raise the nasal tip. The follow-up period was 6 months to 6 years.

RESULTS

Satisfactory results were achieved in all patients. The reconstructed upper lip had invisible scar with natural philtrum and column. The vermilion had good appearance with tubercle. The length of nasal column was not decreased and depression of nasal tip and alar was greatly improved.

CONCLUSIONS

Our modified Mulliken method is effective in synchronous correction of lip and nasal deformity in bilateral cleft lip.