The Abbe Flap in Secondary Cleft Lip Repair

T he Abbe flap is a full-thickness composite flap, involving the transfer of the skin, muscle, and mucosa of the central part of the lower lip to the upper lip. This vermilionpedicled flap, based on the inferior labial vessels, has been used for secondary corrections in cleft deformities, more often in bilateral cases. Indications for its use include deficiency or scarring of the central part of the upper lip, thinness of the vermilion with a nonexistent lip tuberculum, or the absence of a Cupid’s bow. The procedure may be combined with other reconstructive procedures.