Columella Flap: A New Approach for Columella Reconstruction.

Abstract

The columella is a complex structure comprised of skin, subcutaneous tissue, and cartilage, and surgical intervention is necessary to correct columella that is deformed or defective. Due to the limitations associated with the techniques described in the literature, the authors have developed a local flap that aims to treat nasal columella defects based on lip lifting markings. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of the newly developed Columella Flap technique for reconstructing nasal columella defects and short columella. The objectives include assessing aesthetic and functional outcomes following the surgical intervention and documenting the complication rates associated with this innovative approach in a retrospective series of patients over a 1-year follow-up. A retrospective analysis of patients' medical records was performed looking at patients who underwent columella reconstruction using a flap developed by the authors. Each patient received outpatient follow-up for a minimum of one year after surgical intervention, from October 2023 to December 2025. Patients completed a questionnaire to assess how the patient perceives their nose before and after rhinoplasty, including expectations, aesthetic satisfaction, and the impact on social and professional life, in order to evaluate surgical outcomes and overall satisfaction. The same questionnaire was provided again one year after the procedure. Patient satisfaction was assessed by comparing the responses from both time points. Twenty patients underwent this technique, with a follow-up period of one year. The proposed flap significantly improved columella reconstruction, with the majority of patients reporting aesthetic and functional benefits. Only a few minor and common complications were observed. The columella flap is a versatile tool used to reconstruct these deformities. The use of this new flap can help correct most columella deformities, bring functionality and be aesthetically acceptable, with minor complications.