The Super Shaving Technique to Correct the Trapdoor Effect in Nasal Flaps

Abstract Introduction and objectives The trapdoor effect is a possible complication in flap reconstructions, particularly those involving the face. It consists of a bulging, elevated deformity that appears 3 weeks after the intervention. To date there has been no consensus on how the trapdoor effect should be treated. The aim of this article is to report on our experience with this defect and describe how we use the ‘super shaving’ technique to resolve the trapdoor effect in nasal flaps. Material and methods We performed a retrospective, descriptive study of 10 patients who developed a bulging deformity of a nasal flap that was treated surgically with the super shaving technique. We also report on postoperative management. Results The median age of the 10 patients was 67.7 years and they all developed a bulging transposition flap in the nasal area after conventional or Mohs micrographic surgery. The complication occurred approximately 5 weeks after surgery and healing time was 4 weeks. There were no major postoperative complications and the outcome was of low aesthetic significance compared with the bulging flap. All the patients stated they were very satisfied with the aesthetic outcome. Conclusions In our opinion, the super shaving technique is a fast, effective, simple, and cheap outpatient procedure that offers excellent aesthetic results.