A new method for the primary repair of unilateral cleft lip.

The author reports primary repair of complete unilateral cleft lip using three flaps: (1) a small triangular flap at the vermilion border; (2) a large triangular flap at the upper lip; and (3) an alar flap. This method has the advantages that the design can be made by any beginner in plastic surgery, reconstruction of the nostril floor is simple, operative results are good and constant even for a beginner; and retardation of the maxilla is minimal or nonexistent.