Background: This study aims to examine the safety and efficacy of using scalp complex tissue combined with subcutaneous adipose tissue for the repair of defects after the excision of upper lip nevus.
Methods: The authors conducted a retrospective study involving 8 patients who underwent transplantation of scalp composite tissue with subcutaneous adipose tissue for the reconstruction of upper lip defects after the excision of nevus. The surgical protocol entailed meticulous excision of pathologic skin lesions from the upper lip to adequately prepare the recipient site; subsequently, composite scalp tissue with subcutaneous adipose tissue was harvested from behind the ear and meticulously transplanted to rectify the upper lip deficiency. A comprehensive review of photographic evidence and clinical records for these patients was undertaken. In addition, we evaluated the patients' self-reported satisfaction with the outcomes of their repairs.
Results: Three males and 5 females were included with median age 28 years. All the patients successfully underwent effective wound repair. There were no instances of necrosis observed in the scalp composite tissue during the early postoperative period. The wounds on the lips exhibited complete healing within 2 weeks after surgery. The mean duration of follow-up was 13 months, ranging from 11 to 17 months. All patients expressed profound satisfaction with the clinical outcomes.
Conclusions: It is a safe and effective approach to utilize scalp complex tissue with subcutaneous adipose tissue for the reconstruction of defects arising from the excision of upper lip nevi. The authors propose this method as a viable alternative therapeutic option.
Level of evidence: Level Ⅳ.
Keywords: Defect; reconstruction; scalp complex tissue; subcutaneous adipose tissue; upper lip nevus.
Copyright © 2025 by Mutaz B. Habal, MD.