Nasal reconstruction.

Nasal defects commonly seen by plastic surgeons result from trauma, burn injury, or tumor resection. While nasal reconstruction is one of the oldest plastic surgery endeavors, techniques continue to evolve and be modified. Grafts and local flaps are used in smaller defects. Larger and complex defects are best reconstructed following the aesthetic unit principle. These defects also require replacement of all lost tissues to provide nasal lining, skeletal support, and skin coverage. Careful analysis of the defect and reliance on these general guidelines will allow for less obvious nasal reconstruction and a more natural appearance and function.