What should you know about nose flap surgery for skin cancer?

Removing a skin cancer on the nose can leave a defect that is too large or deep for simple closure. A flap uses nearby skin with its blood supply, reshaping it to cover the area. The design depends on the nasal subunit involved, the size and depth of the defect, and the need to keep the nostril open.

The original diagnosis may be [Basal Cell Carcinoma](/conditions/basal-cell-carcinoma/), [Squamous Cell Carcinoma](/conditions/squamous-cell-carcinoma/), or another skin cancer such as [Melanoma](/conditions/melanoma/). Reconstruction is planned after the cancer has been removed and the margins are assessed.

Your surgeon will explain the anaesthetic, incision lines, dressing care, bathing instructions, and whether reconstruction is completed in one operation or stages. Follow medication instructions and avoid pressure on the nose while the flap heals. Swelling, bruising, tightness, and temporary changes in sensation can occur. Attend wound checks so the team can assess healing and remove dressings or sutures when appropriate. More information is available in [Skin Cancer Surgery](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/skin-cancer-surgery/).

Contact the team promptly if the flap becomes increasingly pale, dark, cold, or very painful, or if bleeding continues through the dressing. Fever, spreading redness, worsening swelling, pus, or breathing difficulty also needs prompt assessment. Do not apply creams or alter dressings unless your surgical instructions allow it.

Ask how much tissue must be removed, why a flap suits your defect, whether the cancer margins are clear, how many stages may be needed, what scar changes to expect, and which symptoms indicate a flap problem.