The Blocking Points: The Keys to Consistent Success in Preservation Rhinoplasty.

Abstract

Preservation rhinoplasty is a growing area of interest among rhinoplasty surgeons. Dorsal preservation-a tenet of preservation rhinoplasty-is predicated on maintaining the integrity of the nasal midvault and effecting aesthetic change through alterations to the bony nasal pyramid and underlying septum. A challenge that is unique to dorsal preservation is the phenomenon of hump recurrence, because of the existence of anatomical blocking points. Blocking points are resistant tensile forces that either impede dorsal lowering intraoperatively or push the dorsum back to its native convexity over time. Five anatomical blocking points have previously been described, which the authors expand on and include an additional two. The seven anatomical blocking points are as follows: the cartilaginous septum, the perpendicular plate of the ethmoid, the lateral osteotomy site, the Webster triangle, the internal mucoperiosteum of the maxillary bone, the medial canthal ligament, and the lateral keystone area. It is critical that the surgeon be aware of the particular blocking points relevant to his or her chosen technique, and to appropriately and methodically address them to ensure consistent long-term results.