["W-shape" flap at nasal tip for the correction of the nasal deformity secondary to unilateral cleft lip].

OBJECTIVE: To investigate an effective method for the correction of the narrow nostril secondary to cleft lip. METHODS: A "bird wing shape" incision was made on the nasal tip to form a "W-shape" flap for repairing the nasal deformities secondary to cleft lip, especially for the cases with narrow nostril. RESULTS: Twenty-eight patients were treated with this method. All the cases achieved a symmetry shape of nasal ala, nostril, nasal columella and a normal height of nasal tip except for 2 cases with malformation at nasal tip who achieved improvement after reoperation. 21 cases were followed up for 6-12 months with good cosmetic result and no recurrence. CONCLUSIONS: "W-shape" flap at the nasal tip is an ideal way for the correction of mild to moderate narrow nostril deformity secondary to cleft lip.