Techniques of columellar and alar nasal reconstruction

Nasal defects of the columella and alar subunits are among the most challenging facial defects to reconstruct. The distinctive contours and discrete borders as well as the free margin of the nostrils contribute to the difficulty in executing these reconstructions. We present the reader with an up-to-date review of the philosophy behind treating defects in these nasal subunits. We also provide some detailed examples of techniques that can be used to achieve successful reconstruction of defects in these challenging locations.