Utility of human amniotic membrane allograft in re-epithelialization of the nasal tip

Variations in skin thickness and contours pose significant challenges to reconstruction of the lower third of the nose. Human amniotic membrane allograft offers a potential alternative to tissue transfer in reconstruction of the lower third of the nose. We reviewed the procedure and photographs of a healthy 56-year-old male with a 22 × 18 mm lower third nasal defect involving full thickness skin and subcutaneous tissue. Following preparation for grafting, dehydrated human amniotic membrane was fashioned to the dimensions of the defect and applied. No further surgical intervention was provided for 3 months. Complete re-epithelialization of the nasal and adjacent defects was achieved with minimal scar formation. Human amniotic membrane allograft provides an efficacious and cosmetically acceptable alternative to local and regional tissue transfer.