A flap that has a philosophy and requires courage to do: Abbe flap

Abstract

The Abbe flap is a valuable reconstructive option for secondary deformities of the upper lip following cleft lip repair. In this report, the author present four cases successfully treated with the Abbe flap, demonstrating its reliability and aesthetic outcomes. Each procedure was performed under local anesthesia, utilizing a flap based on the left labial artery. The technique proved effective in addressing whistling deformity, philtrum loss, and upper lip retraction. Even surgeons without prior experience in this flap can achieve functional and cosmetic success when the indication is correct. Despite the limited number of cases, our experience supports the use of the Abbe flap in selected patients, reinforcing its value in modern reconstructive surgery.