Abstract: The nasolabial flap (NLF) reconstruction technique is the oldest soft
tissue flap technique since 700 BC. NLF is a very resourceful flap for the defect
of basal cell carcinoma in the maxillofacial region. This case report presents a 45
year old female, farmer by occupation for more than 20 years, came to our
hospital with an ulcerated nodule lesion on the upper lip for five years. The lesion
was located above the left oral commissure. It was approximated one-sixth of
entire upper lip size. There were purulent discharge and infrequent bleeding from
the ulcerated lip and no associated with pain. The fine-needle aspiration biopsy
revealed BCC. The lip reconstructive option was left nasolabial flap for lining and
cover. Histopathology confirmed the BCC diagnosis without metastases in the
ulcerated margin. The NLF is a very useful and reliable flap for the lip defect
coverage. It gives better color and contour match with surrounding soft tissue of
the lip. Despite some cases reported that majority of lip reconstruction required
prolonged post-operative time and sometimes need a second surgical intervention.
NLF still represents as a good option for achieving good oral opening for speech,
chewing, and dental hygiene.
