Correction of Whistle Deformity Using Modified V-Y Advancement Flap

ABSTRACT

Whistle deformity is deficiency of vermilion of the upper lip. It is a common sequelae of primary lip repair. Many methods have been devised to correct this deformity, most using neighbouring normal tissue of the upper lip. Methods such as Z-plasty, Double rotation, V-Y advancement flap, etc., have been commonly used for the correction of unilateral whistle deformity. We found that the V-Y advancement flap with transposition of deepithelialized tissue was more effective for the correction of whistle deformity than the original V-Y advancement flap. We named this new method 'Modified V-Y advancement flap'. The technique has been performed in 5 patients, 9 to 23 years of age, each with a whistle deformity. One years and six months was the longest follow-up period. Satisfactory results have been obtained and here the authors reported along with a review of the current literature.