Three-Dimensional Z-Plasty in the Correction of the Unilateral Cleft Lip Nasal Deformity

Abstract

Abstract Objective: Numerous methods have been introduced for correction of the cleft lip nasal deformities, but no single procedure has given sufficiently satisfactory results to provide a surgical standard. Much effort has been put on restoring cartilaginous structures using alar cartilage modification and suspension. But even after the cartilage framework is repositioned well, redundant alar webbing is still unsightly and frequently conspicuous. This paper presents a procedure combining the usual open rhinoplasty technique and three-dimensional Z-plasty in an external approach to remove the alar web and to lengthen the columella at the same time. Methods: Open rhinoplasty was performed in 26 consecutive patients with unilateral cleft lip nasal deformity from 1991 to 1996. We used an open rhinoplasty approach, which is a combination of the usual infracartilaginous incision on the noncleft side and a small triangular flap on the cleft side. Results and Conclusions: This external rhinoplasty incision can ...