An Alternative to the Wire Scalpel for Nasolabial Fold Subcision: A Preliminary Study Using a Tuohy Epidural Needle and Vicryl Sutures.

Background: Subcision techniques involving wire scalpels are used to correct prominent nasolabial folds, depressed scars, and wrinkles. However, these instruments are not universally available.

Methods: We devised a substitute device, consisting of a Tuohy epidural needle and Vicryl sutures, which are easily accessible and inexpensive. We used these novel devices to perform nasolabial fold subcisions in six female patients (mean age 43 years, range 28-65 years) The follow-up period ranged from 4 to 11 months (mean 7 months).

Results: Favorable results were obtained for five of six patients, with minimal complications.

Conclusion: Our subcision technique, employing Tuohy epidural needles and vicryl sutures, was an easy and useful substitute for the use of wire scalpels for improving prominent nasolabial folds.

Level Of Evidence V: This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .