Reconstructing Infected Supernumerary Nostril Using Subunit Principle of Nose: A Rare Case with a Rare Presentation

ABSTRACT Supernumerary nostril is a very rare form of congenital anomaly and presents in unique forms. Often conspicuously present but misdiagnosed due to the wide variations in presentation, this in turn leads to delay in accurate diagnosis and hence the treatment. Until now a supernumerary nose presenting with a chronic discharging sinus had not been described. This kind of presentation is more in favour of chronic infectious disease especially in the developing world. The reconstructive management is also varied depending on the size and depth of the anomaly, ideally requiring a local flap cover. The nose being an aesthetically sensitive area, the reconstruction requires special considerations as it is based on the subunit principle. Timely diagnosis and surgery are paramount to obtain optimum cosmesis and function. Though rare, supernumerary nose must be taken into account in a patient presenting with a chronic infection of the nose.