• Maxillofacial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
• /
• v.39
• /
• pp.12.1-12.5
• /
• 2017

Background: Rehabilitation of normal function and form is essential in cleft lip repair. In 2005, Dr. David M. Fisher introduced an innovative method, named "an anatomical subunit approximation technique" in unilateral cleft lip repair. According to this method, circumferential incision along the columella on cleft side of the medial flap is continued to the planned top of the Cupid's bow in straight manner, which runs parallel to the unaffected philtral ridge. Usually, small inlet incision is needed to lengthen the medial flap. On lateral flap, small triangle just above the cutaneous roll is used to prevent unesthetic shortening of upper lip. This allows better continuity of the Cupid's bow and ideal distribution of tension. Case presentation: As a modification to original method, orbicularis oris muscle overlapping suture is applied to make the elevated philtral ridge. Concomitant primary rhinoplasty also results in good esthetic outcome with symmetric nostrils and correction of alar web. As satisfactory results were obtained in three incomplete and one complete unilateral cleft lip patients, indicating Fisher's method can be useful in cleft lip surgery with functional and esthetic outcome. Conclusions: Clinically applied Fisher's method in unilateral cleft lip patients proved the effectiveness in improving the esthetic results with good symmetry. This method also applied with primary rhinoplasty.

• Maxillofacial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
• /
• v.42
• /
• pp.21.1-21.6
• /
• 2020

Background: Fibula free flap mandible reconstruction is the standard procedure after wide resection of the mandible. Establishment and maintenance of normal occlusion are important in mandible reconstruction both intraoperatively and after surgery. However, scar formation on the surgical site can cause severe fibrosis and atrophy of soft tissue in the head and neck region. Case presentation: Here, we report a case of severe soft tissue atrophy that appeared along with scar formation after mandibular reconstruction through the fibular free flap procedure. This led to normal occlusion collapse after it was established, and the midline of the mandible became severely deviated to the affected side that was replaced with the fibula free flap, leading to facial asymmetry. We corrected the malocclusion with a secondary operation: a sagittal split ramus osteotomy on the unaffected side and a sliding osteotomy on the previous fibula graft. After a healing time of 3 months, implants were placed on the fibula graft for additional occlusal stability. Conclusion: We report satisfactory results from the correction of malocclusion after fibula reconstruction using sliding fibula osteotomy and sagittal split ramus osteotomy. The midline of the mandible returned to its original position and the degree of facial asymmetry was reduced. The implants reduced difficulties that the patient experienced with masticatory function.

• Archives of Plastic Surgery
• /
• v.51 no.2
• /
• pp.163-168
• /
• 2024

Background The study determined to compare the clinical outcomes of traditional gold weight implantation for the correction of paralytic lagophthalmos with those of a newly designed model. Methods In this retrospective cohort study, we enrolled 30 patients (76% females; average age 60.8 ± 12 years) with facial palsy who underwent implantation of either the traditional pretarsal gold weight (PT group; n = 15) or a new supratarsal model (ST group; n = 15) from May 2014 to April 2019. The main outcome measures were the 12-month postoperative weight prominence, weight migration, improvement of lagophthalmos, upper eyelid contour, and upper eyelid ptosis. The secondary outcome was long-term (24 months) reoperative rate. Results The new model group had significantly better eyelid contour (risk ratio [RR] 3.16, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.62-6.15, p = 0.001), less weight prominence (RR 1.74, 95% CI 1.13-2.70, p = 0.013), less weight migration (RR 1.31, 95% CI 1.12-1.54, p = 0.001), and less eyelid ptosis (RR 2.36, 95% CI 1.21-4.59, p = 0.011) than the traditional model group. Improvement of lagophthalmos was not statistically significant between the two groups (RR 1.44, 95% CI 0.72-2.91, p = 0.303). The 24-month reoperative rate was 53.3% in the PT group versus 13.3% in the ST group (RR 2.00, 95% CI 1.15-3.49, p = 0.015). Conclusion The newly designed supratarsal gold weight showed superior postoperative outcomes than the standard traditional model.

• Archives of Plastic Surgery
• /
• v.42 no.6
• /
• pp.709-715
• /
• 2015

Background The incidence of vascular anomalies in the head and neck is higher than in the extremities. It is especially common for vascular anomalies to involve the lip. The lips are a functionally and aesthetically important component of the head and neck area. A retrospective analysis of data from our vascular anomaly center was performed in order to understand the characteristics and treatment requirements of vascular anomalies of the lip and to establish which treatments are likely to lead to the best outcomes. Methods A retrospective review was performed of the medical records of patients diagnosed with vascular anomalies of the upper or lower lip from January 2001 to September 2013. Using clinical photographs, radiologic findings, and patient records, the diagnosis of each case and the location of the vascular anomaly were recorded, along with information about treatment and follow-up. Results A total of 1,606 patients were diagnosed with vascular anomalies over this time period, of whom 127 (7.9%) were found to have vascular anomalies in the lip only. Surgical treatment with or without embolization, sclerotherapy, laser therapy, medication only, and observation were the treatment strategies adopted in these cases. Conclusions Vascular anomalies of the lip should be diagnosed accurately. Radiologic diagnosis played a crucial role in treatment planning, and several techniques were used to treat vascular anomalies of the lip. When surgical excision is indicated for the correction of vascular anomalies of the lip, the aesthetic and functional characteristics of the lip should be considered.

• Archives of Craniofacial Surgery
• /
• v.10 no.2
• /
• pp.81-85
• /
• 2009

Purpose: The inferior orbital wall is the most vulnerable to injury and inadequate reconstruction of inferior orbital fracture result in postoperative complications include enophthalmos, ocular dystopia and diplopia. Although the anatomical reconstruction of the inferior orbital wall is necessary to prevent these complications, the complexity of inferior orbital wall makes it difficult. We fabricated and remodeled the titanium micro-mesh plate for the anatomical reconstruction of inferior orbital wall. Methods: Twenty-nine patients with inferior orbital wall blow-out fracture were operated and twelve of them presented large extensive fracture. We intraoperatively fabricated and remodeled the Titanium-micro mesh to angulated lazy S shape similar to contralateral uninjured orbit. The preoperative and postoperative facial CT scan verified the 3-dimensional and anatomical reconstruction of the fractures. The mean follow-up was 19.7 months and postoperative complications was evaluated. Results: All cases showed the exact anatomical reconstruction, but there were minor complications in two cases. one patient had postoperative diplopia until 3months after surgery and the other patient had persistent enophthalmos (2 mm), but no further surgical correction was required. Conclusion: The comprehensive understanding of orbital convexity is the most important factor for anatomical reconstruction of inferior orbital fracture. We could prevent postoperative complications after inferior orbital wall reconstruction by intraoperative fabrication and anatomical remodeling of Titanium micro-mesh.

• Archives of Plastic Surgery
• /
• v.37 no.2
• /
• pp.143-147
• /
• 2010

Purpose: Nostril stenosis is an uncommon deformity that develops as a consequence of smallpox, chickenpox, tuberculosis, syphilis, congenital malformations etc. There have been several studies on the surgical techniques to treat it. However, it is difficult to maintain the result for a long time. The goal of this study is to evaluate the use of Wplasty, perialar flap as an operative techniques and expansion exercise using Foley catheter as a method to keep the patency of nostril. Methods: This is a retrospective review of the senior surgeon's (Y.L.) patients who underwent W-plasty and a perialar flap. Patients treated from 2005 to 2009 were reviewed and the postoperative results were evaluated. Average patient age was 24 years, ranged from 1 to 61 years, average follow-up period was 27.5 months, ranged from 3 to 77 months. The mild deformity was released with an incision and expansion by the ballooning of a Foley catheter and corrected by W-plasty only. However, a severe deformity required an additional procedure including perialar flap transposition. During the postoperative period, the patients maintained a nasal stent and exercise using a Foley catheter to prevent recurrence. Results: Five cases of nostril stenosis in four patients were treated using this technique. One case was corrected with W-plasty only, but four cases were more severe and were corrected with W-plasty and a perialar flap. There were no perioperative complications. The patients were satisfied with the results and retained a good shape during the follow-up periods. Conclusion: Nostril stenosis can be corrected with W-plasty and a perialar flap. A perialar flap is added if W-plasty is unable to correct the deformity. A postoperative nasal stent and expansion with a Foley catheter can help in preventing recurrences.

• Archives of Plastic Surgery
• /
• v.47 no.6
• /
• pp.542-550
• /
• 2020

Background This study aimed to identify the initial diagnostic characteristics and treatment status of children with submucous cleft palate (SMCP) and to examine the relationship between the timing of surgical correction and the degree of articulation and resonance improvement. Methods This retrospective study included 72 children diagnosed with SMCP between 2008 and 2016. The evaluation criteria were the age of the initial visit, total number of visits, age at the end of treatment, speech problems, resonance problems, and speech therapy. Results Children with SMCP first visited the hospital at an average age of 34.32 months, and speech problems were identified at an average age of 48.53 months. Out of 72 children, 46 underwent surgery at an average age of 49.74 months. Four of these children required secondary surgery at an average age of 83.5 months. Among the children who underwent surgery before 3 years of age, 70% exhibited articulation improvements, with mild-to-moderate hypernasality. Articulation improvements showed no statistically significant differences according to age at the time of surgery. However, children who underwent surgery before 4 years had a better hypernasality rating than those who underwent surgery after 4 years of age. Conclusions Children with SMCP tend to undergo delayed treatment because the anatomical symptoms in some children with SMCP are unclear, and surgical interventions are considered only after speech problems are clarified. Starting interventions as early as possible reduces the likelihood of receiving secondary surgery and speech therapy, while increasing expectations for positive speech function at the end.

• Archives of Craniofacial Surgery
• /
• v.19 no.1
• /
• pp.13-19
• /
• 2018

Background: $Abb{\acute{e}}$ flap technique is one of the most challenging operations to correct horizontal deficiencies in secondary cleft lip deformity. Since its first introduction, the operative method was dynamically modified from simple variation to complete conceptual change, but conventional $Abb{\acute{e}}$ flap has many drawbacks in esthetic and functional aspect. Our purpose was reconstructing the symmetry of Cupid's bow and central vermilion tubercle with minimal sequalae. Methods: From 2008 to 2016, this technique was applied to 16 secondary cleft lip patients who had total or more than 60% of unilateral deficiency of Cupid's bow and central lip or tubercle pouting deficiency. A quadrangular-shaped flap was transferred from vermilion including skin and white line of central or contralateral lower lip. Pedicle division and insetting were made at 9 (unilateral) or 10 (bilateral) days after transfer. Secondary lip revision was done with open rhinoplasty after wound maturation. Results: Overall satisfaction was high with modified technique. Scar was minimally noticeable on both upper and lower lip especially. Balanced Cupid's bow and symmetric vermilion tubercle were made with relatively small size of flap compared to conventional $Abb{\acute{e}}$ flap. An accompanying benefit was reduced ectropion of lower lip, which made balanced upper and lower lip protrusion with more favorable profile. Conclusion: A new modified $Abb{\acute{e}}$ flap technique showed great satisfaction. It is worth considering in secondary cleft lip patient who has central lip shortage and asymmetry of upper lip vermilion border line. Our technique is one of the substitutes for correction of horizontal and central lip deficiency with asymmetric Cupid's bow.

• Archives of Craniofacial Surgery
• /
• v.20 no.6
• /
• pp.354-360
• /
• 2019

Background: Keloids are benign fibro-proliferative lesion, related to excessive inflammatory reactions in certain anatomical areas, including the auricles. Their specific etiology remains unclear; nonetheless they exhibit tumor-like characteristics of significant recurrence and cause emotional distress, even with various treatment strategies. We applied intermittent magnetic pressure therapy on ear keloids in combination with surgical excision, and present its effectiveness herein. Methods: Ear keloid patients were treated with surgical excision followed by magnetic pressure therapy. The keloid tissues underwent excision and keloid marginal flaps were utilized for wound closure. Intermittent magnetic pressure therapy was applied 2 weeks after the surgical procedure. The pressure therapy consisted of a 3-hour application and 2-hour resting protocol (9 hr/day), and lasted for 6 months. The results were analyzed 6 months after the therapeutic procedures, using the scar assessment scale. Results: Twenty-two ear keloids from 20 patients were finally reviewed. Among the keloids that completed the therapeutic course, 20 ear keloids out of 22 in total (90.9%) were successfully eradicated. Two patients (2 keloids) exhibited slight under-correction. Postoperative complications such as wound dehiscence or surgical site infection were not noted. The scar assessment scale demonstrated a significant improvement in each index. The intermittent pressure therapy led to patient compliance, and avoided pressure-related pain and discomfort. Conclusion: Excision followed by intermittent pressure application using a magnet successfully reduced the burden of fibro-proliferative keloids, and had good patient compliance. The role of intermittent pressure application and resting should be studied with regard to keloid tissue remodeling.

• Archives of Plastic Surgery
• /
• v.35 no.2
• /
• pp.214-218
• /
• 2008

Purpose: Reconstruction of microtia using costal cartilage graft is commonly used technique nowadays. The chest wall depression at the donor site after the graft, however, has been noticed in many articles. Prevention or correction technique for the depression at the donor site also has been reported and we also have been concerned about the problem. This article is a case report about a new technique preventing chest wall depression after costal cartilage graft. Methods: We selected total 15 microtia patients who visited our clinic, from December 2005 to July 2007. They were 10 male and 5 female patients and the mean age was 11.9 years. The average follow up period was 9.2 months(2 to 15 months). We used 6, 7, and $8^{th}$ costal cartilage for microtia reconstruction. And then we turned over pivot of cartilage resection margin, after bihalving costal cartilage involving about 5-6 cm of $6^{th}$ and $7^{th}$ rib bone. After microtia reconstruction, chest donor sites were evaluated by physical examination and radiography. Results: Postoperative depression at the donor site was much less when the costal cartilage turnover technique was performed. Postoperative physical examination and three dimensional reconstruction CT showed that the rest part of rib bone was turned over and it supported the soft tissue defect during respiration. Conclusion: We expect that the turnover rib bone will not be absorbed after graft, as well as offering mechanical support, compared to the other reports.