[Potentials of reconstructive plastic surgery in the area of the nose].

Reconstruction of defects in the nasal area is described. There are basic principles to be considered, especially the cause of the defect, which may be traumatical or due to a tumour. It makes a difference whether the defect is placed on the bridge of the nose or on the lobule, or if the columella or the alar areas are affected. Another point of view is the extent of the defect, especially if it is a penetrating defect. We have also to consider the side issues, such as recurrence of the tumour, or the condition after radiotherapy. There are four principal techniques for reconstructive surgery in the nose area: Local flaps, regional transpositional flaps, distant flaps, and free transplantation of tissue. The clinical application of the different possibilities of reconstructive surgery in the nasal area is discussed.