Rhinoplasty Techniques Research Articles

Management of the Middle Vault.

Early reductive rhinoplasty techniques focused on hump reduction and tip plasty with minimal focus on treating or preserving the integrity and width of the middle vault. With time, rhinoplasty surgeons noted the aesthetic and functional complications of the deformities that may occur in the middle vault with reduction techniques and developed methods to treat and also avoid these complications. Thus, the importance of protecting the integrity of the middle third of the nose has been increasingly emphasized over the years. Primary deformities of the middle vault that result in nasal obstruction require attention of the rhinoplasty surgeon, as well as preservation of support structures of the middle vault and internal nasal valve to minimize secondary deformities and functional compromise after rhinoplasty surgery.

Transoral Septoplasty before Le Fort I Downfracture: A Novel Functional Rhinoplasty Technique.

Individuals with maxillary dentofacial deformities commonly have preexisting nasal airway obstruction with associated nasal septal deviation. Combination bimaxillary procedures with intraoral septoplasty after maxillary downfracture have been demonstrated to address dentofacial deformities and nasal obstruction simultaneously. Although effective, current transoral septoplasty techniques offer limited visualization of the superior septum and are challenging to perform due to septal mobility after Le Fort I downfracture. Here, we describe a novel approach in which a transoral septoplasty is performed before completion of the Le Fort I maxillary downfracture, improving septal stability during the dissection and affording better visualization of the septal L-strut for precise cartilage resection.

Let-Down Rhinoplasty in Patients With Cleft Lip Nose.

Rhinoplasty in patients with cleft lip nose (CLN) deformity is challenging. Cleft lip nose deformity primarily affects the nasal tip, columella, nostrils, alar base, floor, and septum. The needs of patients with CLN are quite different from those of patients who undergo primary rhinoplasty. Recently, the dorsal preservation rhinoplasty technique has gained popularity. We applied this technique to patients with CLN deformity to obtain better aesthetic and functional results. Ten consecutive patients with indication for primary CLN reconstruction underwent let-down rhinoplasty. Rhinoplasties were performed using either the closed or open approach, with costal cartilage grafts and full-thickness skin grafts. A rhinoplasty outcome evaluation questionnaire was used to assess the results. Moreover, the use of the same questionnaire in prior patients allowed us to compare results between our previous and new techniques. The study included 6 female and 4 male patients, with ages ranging from 18 to 25 years. Only 1 patient had a history of bilateral cleft lip. Seven patients had a history of left-sided cleft lip, and 2 patients had right-sided cleft lip. Open-approach let-down rhinoplasty with costal cartilage grafts and full-thickness skin grafts was performed in 8 patients, whereas closed-approach let-down rhinoplasty with costal cartilage grafts was performed in 2 patients. Columellar struts and affected-side onlay costal cartilage grafts were used in all patients. All patients reported being satisfied with the let-down rhinoplasty outcome, and none complained of functional problems. However, nostril symmetry was not observed in some patients, particularly in patients who underwent closed-approach rhinoplasty. Combining open approach, full-thickness skin graft, costal cartilage graft, and let-down rhinoplasty shows promising and satisfactory outcomes in patients with CLN. However, further studies are required to confirm this observation.

Modified Alar Base Reduction: A Novel Technique.

Alar base reduction (ABR) surgery is one of the rhinoplasty techniques used to reduce alar flaring, nasal base width, or both. It is crucial for rhinoplasty surgeons to understand and analyze the type of nasal base deformity to achieve satisfactory results and avoid complications. The objective of this study is to describe a novel technique of ABR that addresses alar flaring while avoiding violation of the nostril marginal rim. This prospective cohort study included patients with alar flaring who underwent rhinoplasty or septorhinoplasty with ABR using our modified technique. Demographic data, clinical history, aesthetic concerns, and preoperative and postoperative photographs were collected for each patient. The surgical outcome was assessed using subjective scar evaluation scores at 3 and 6 months, the Stony Brook Scar Evaluation Scale at 6 months, and an overall appearance satisfaction score. A total of 8 patients were included in the study. Subjectively, the majority of patients (75%) reported satisfactory scar appearance at the 6-month follow-up. The mean Stony Brook score was 4.7 (SD=0.74). Nostril symmetry was achieved in all patients. Seventy-five percent of the participants expressed satisfaction with the overall appearance. Our modified ABR technique demonstrates promising results in correcting alar flaring while achieving nostril symmetry with an acceptable scar. Further studies with a larger sample size are needed to evaluate the feasibility of the technique and compare it to other classical techniques. Level IV.

Rhinoplasty with Concurrent Repair of Septal Perforation.

Concurrently performing septal perforation repair and rhinoplasty is challenging. Successful management of patients who require or desire these procedures performed simultaneously can be achieved with appropriate preoperative workup and optimization, thoughtful surgical planning, masterful execution, and diligent postoperative care. Consideration of perforation etiology and status of the perforation along with overall nasal health are the foundation upon which surgery may be planned. Preoperative evaluation to determine locations of obstruction, aesthetic goals, and feasibility of procedure is required. Rhinoplasty techniques and perforation closure techniques may share common maneuvers making concurrent surgery possible. Surgical techniques to achieve perforation closure often influence rhinoplasty considerations, and vice versa. Care must be taken to account and possibly even to capitalize on these influences. Perforation closure techniques that may be readily combined with rhinoplasty include interposition grafting and intranasal mucosal rotational advancement flaps, which may exert forces upon the nose with aesthetic or functional consequences. Rhinoplasty techniques targeting any third of the nose also can impact tension or available mucosa for perforation closure techniques. Combining these procedures can be very rewarding for the patient and provider but should be considered responsibly and thoughtfully.

Literature Review: Comparison between Open and Closed Techniques in Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty, a popular cosmetic surgery, offers two primary techniques: open and closed. This literature review compares the theoretical framework, surgical treatment, and complications of both approaches. While the closed technique provides no visible external scars and shorter surgical time, the open technique offers improved precision for complex cases. Both techniques have unique advantages, and the choice should be tailored to individual patient characteristics and desired outcomes. Ongoing research will continue to enhance rhinoplasty techniques and outcomes.

Rhinoplasty: Considerations for Patients with Facial Paralysis.

Nasal obstruction is a common sequela of flaccid facial paralysis but one that is often underaddressed surgically. Weakness of nasal musculature on the paralyzed side of the face leads to nasal valve narrowing through loss of static and dynamic nasal side wall tone as well as inferomedial displacement of the alar base. Standard rhinoplasty techniques such as alar batten grafts or flaring sutures may be used to support the nasal side wall in facial paralysis. However, to address the inferomedial alar displacement, suspension techniques are often required. Suture resuspension and fascia lata resuspension techniques are described, with modifications to each to improve longevity of the suspension.

Video-Assisted Septo-rhinoplasty, the Future of Endonasal Rhinoplasty-A Technical Note.

Surgeons have sought to improve outcomes in rhinoplasty through innovative techniques. Although many publications illustrate the advantages of endoscopic septoplasty over conventional methods, few have evaluated the benefits of endoscopy for rhinoplasty. In this article, the authors meticulously describe their own technique that offers a sustainable alternative to open approach rhinoplasty, with high reproducibility and enhanced knowledge for young surgeons. The technique involves using video-assisted endoscopy for enhanced visibility and access. Various steps are performed, including hemitransfixion incision, septoplasty if necessary, dorsal reduction, and the development of endoscopic spreader flaps. Nasal tip surgery follows standard endonasal rhinoplasty techniques. This technique has been successfully performed for years in primary and secondary rhinoplasties, resulting in improved aesthetic and functional outcomes without external scars. The endoscopic view enhances understanding for surgeons and residents, while preserving internal valve function and minimizing swelling. Patients express high satisfaction with the procedure. Video-assisted endoscopic septo-rhinoplasty offers a valuable alternative, providing natural outcomes with improved visualization and reduced complications. It is applicable to various indications and demonstrates its effectiveness compared to traditional approaches. The advanced endoscopic guided septo-rhinoplasty technique combines the benefits of open approach rhinoplasty while avoiding its drawbacks. This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each submission to which Evidence-Based Medicine rankings are applicable. This excludes Review Articles, Book Reviews, and manuscripts that concern Basic Science, Animal Studies, Cadaver Studies, and Experimental Studies. 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 .

Nonsurgical Rhinoplasty in Patients of African Descent: A Retrospective Review.

There is a paucity of research on nonsurgical rhinoplasty in the population of African descent. In this group, underlying anatomy and aesthetic ideals vary, necessitating differences in the consultation process and in treatment. The authors present a case series from a single clinician's practice performing nonsurgical rhinoplasty on patients of African descent. A retrospective chart review was completed on eligible patients who underwent nonsurgical rhinoplasty treatment with hyaluronic acid filler injections performed by the first author (A.H.) from March of 2018 to February of 2021. Demographic variables, indications for treatment, patient-reported outcomes, and adverse events were reviewed. The authors also share the first author's technique for nonsurgical rhinoplasty in this patient cohort. A total of 487 patients of African descent or mixed race including African descent were included in this study. The most common indications for treatment were lack of bridge definition (63.9%), excessive alar width (61.6%), and a bulbous tip (61.6%). Median filler volume was 0.6 mL (range, 0.3 to 2.1 mL) at the initial treatment visit. There were no reported cases of infection, vascular occlusion, or necrosis. This study is the first to illustrate the effectiveness and safety profile of nonsurgical rhinoplasty in a population of African descent. Anatomical variations and the desire for racially congruent results must be acknowledged to ensure satisfactory outcomes. Therapeutic, IV.

Advanced Preservation Rhinoplasty in the Era of Osteoplasty and Chondroplasty: How Have We Moved Beyond the Cottle Technique?

Over the last 10 years, many new papers on innovative strategies from different surgeons worldwide have elevated the philosophy of preservation rhinoplasty (PR) to a different level: advanced preservation rhinoplasty. The goal of this article was to illustrate how 4 experienced surgeons approach important anatomical and functional issues related to PR. M.G.F., A.M.K., B.S., and D.M.T. were asked about how they approach classical problems and relative contraindications for dorsal PR with different modern advanced preservation rhinoplasty techniques. The answers of each surgeon make clear a new reality in dorsal PR that did not exist in the recent past. These advances in dorsal PR techniques are due to many surgeons' contributions, leading this practice to a different level: advanced preservation rhinoplasty. Dorsal preservation is making a dramatic resurgence and is fueled by the many very talented surgeons who are demonstrating outstanding outcomes with preservation techniques. The authors believe that this trend will continue, and a mutual collaboration between structuralists and preservationists going forward will continue to advance rhinoplasty as a specialty.

Comparing definitive unilateral cleft rhinoplasty with and without diced-cartilage alar-base augmentation: A retrospective cohort study

This retrospective cohort study aimed to compare the long-term aesthetic outcomes and satisfaction of patients who underwent two techniques of definitive unilateral cleft rhinoplasty. The two cohorts, comprising patients with mature unilateral cleft deformity, were managed with definitive rhinoplasty, either with or without diced-cartilage alar-base and peri-alar augmentation (ABPA). Thirty patients were included in each cohort. Anthropometric measurements, complications, patient satisfaction scores, and third-party surgeon assessment scores were reviewed. In both cohorts, anthropometric parameters improved. Rhinoplasty with ABPA was the superior cohort in terms of columellar length (10.3 ± 1.0 in the cohort with ABPA, compared with 7.9 ± 0.6 in the cohort without ABPA; p < 0.001), alar-base angle (0.2 ± 0.2, compared with 4.3 ± 0.3; p < 0.001), and columellar deviation (2.5 ± 1.4, compared with 10.3 ± 2.1; p < 0.001). This cohort also had more symmetry in nostril height and nostril width (p < 0.001), a lower recurrence rate (one case compared with 22 cases; p < 0.001), a higher patient satisfaction score (p = 0.002), and a higher surgeon assessment score (p < 0.001, Cronbach’s alpha = 0.706, Kendall’s coefficient of concordance = 0.787). Within the limitations of this study, it appears that the described technique for augmenting the alar-base and peri-alar maxillary area is manageable, and yields consistent long-term results.

Development and Evaluation of a High-Fidelity Rhinoplasty Simulator.

Rhinoplasty is a challenging procedure with a steep learning curve. Surgical simulators provide a safe platform to gain hands-on experience without compromising patient outcomes. Therefore, rhinoplasty is an ideal procedure to benefit from an effective surgical simulator. A high-fidelity rhinoplasty simulator was developed using three-dimensional computer modeling, three-dimensional printing, and polymer techniques. The simulator was tested by six surgeons with experience in rhinoplasty to assess realism, anatomic accuracy, and value as a training tool. The surgeons performed common rhinoplasty techniques and were provided a Likert-type questionnaire assessing the anatomic features of the simulator. A variety of surgical techniques were performed successfully using the simulator, including open and closed approaches. Bony techniques performed included endonasal osteotomies and rasping. Submucous resection with harvest of septal cartilage, cephalic trim, and tip suturing, as well as grafting techniques including alar rim, columellar strut, spreader, and shield grafts, were performed successfully. Overall, there was agreement on the simulator's anatomic accuracy of bony and soft-tissue features. There was strong agreement on the simulator's overall realism and value as a training tool. The simulator provides a high-fidelity, comprehensive training platform to learn rhinoplasty techniques to augment real operating experience without compromising patient outcomes.

The Effect of Topical Tranexamic Acid on Postrhinoplasty Periorbital Ecchymosis and Eyelid Edema.

This study aimed to examine the effectiveness of topical tranexamic acid application in overcoming periorbital ecchymosis and eyelid edema in patients who have undergone open-technique rhinoplasty. Fifty patients were included in the study and divided into two groups: those who had topical tranexamic acid applied and those who did not (controls). In the tranexamic acid group, tranexamic acid-soaked pledgets were placed under the skin flap in a way that both sides could reach the osteotomy area and left for 5 minutes. In the control group, isotonic saline-soaked pledgets were placed under the skin flap in the same manner and left for 5 minutes. Digital photographs were obtained on postoperative days 1, 3, and 7. Eyelid edema and periorbital ecchymosis were scored by two different examiners and averaged for comparison. Edema that developed in the patients who had tranexamic acid applied was significantly less than in the control group on postoperative day 1. There was no difference between the two groups on postoperative day 3 or 7. Ecchymosis that developed in patients who had tranexamic acid applied was significantly less than in the control group on all days. Topical tranexamic acid applied to the surgical field immediately after osteotomy in rhinoplasty surgery reduces the development of postoperative periorbital ecchymosis. In addition, the topical tranexamic acid application also reduces the development of eyelid edema in the early postoperative period. Therapeutic, II.

Primary Unilateral Cleft Lip Rhinoplasty Technique: The Melbourne Technique.

Addressing the primary nasal deformity associated with congenital cleft lip is a complex problem that ranges in severity. There are both esthetic and functional ramifications that develop over time. This paper serves to describe the novel Melbourne technique in addressing the primary cleft nasal deformity through repositioning the septal cartilage to the facial midline, reconstructing the nasal floor, and an upper lateral suture to suspend and overcorrect the lower lateral cartilage by modifying the McComb technique. The definitive aim is long-term symmetry in the correction of the cleft lip nasal deformity and these techniques have demonstrated improved nasal symmetry in our unilateral cleft patients.

Characterizing Cleft Rhinoplasty Across Skeletal Maturity: A Systematic Review of Terminology and Surgical Techniques.

The purpose of this study is to assess cleft rhinoplasty terminology across phases of growth. A systematic review was performed on cleft rhinoplasty publications over 20 years. Studies were categorized by age at surgical intervention: infant (<1 year); immature (1 to 14 years); mature (>15 years). Collected data included terminology used and surgical techniques. The 288 studies included demonstrated a wide range of terminology. In the infant group, 51/54 studies used the term "primary." In the immature group, 7/18 studies used the term "primary," 3/18 used "secondary." In the mature group, 2/33 studies used the term "primary," 16/33 used "secondary," 2/33 used "definitive," 5/33 used terms such as "mature," "adult," and "late," and 8/33 did not use terminology. cleft rhinoplasty at infancy used nostril rim or no nasal incision, immature rhinoplasty used closed and open rhinoplasty incisions; and mature rhinoplasty used a majority of open rhinoplasty. Infant and immature cleft rhinoplasty incorporated septal harvest or spur removal in <10% of cases, whereas these procedures were common in mature rhinoplasty. No studies in infants or immature patients used osteotomies or septal grafts, common techniques in mature rhinoplasty. Current terminology for cleft rhinoplasty is varied and inconsistently applied across stages of facial development. However, cleft rhinoplasty performed at infancy, childhood, and facial maturity are surgically distinct procedures. The authors recommend the terminology "infant," "immature," and "mature" cleft rhinoplasty to accurately describe this procedure within the context of skeletal growth.

Septal Advancement Flap: Preserving, Restructuring, and Reshaping the Nasal Tip Contour with a Novel Flap.

Tip support and the tip's exact final position-rotation and projection-remain a main concern among rhinoplasty surgeons. The available options can be classified into two groups: septal extension graft (variations including tongue-in-groove) and columellar strut (with all its variations). There is still the possibility of nasal tip ligament(s) preservation-namely the interdomal ligament, when anchoraged cephalically to the anterior septal angle preserving the tip support. Including this panoply of solutions, the author has identified some challenges with insufficient outcome. Based on engineering concepts, a novel septal flap was developed to facilitate a preferred tip position and shape. The septal advancement flap (SAF) is a rotational-advancement flap of the superior and caudal aspects of the cartilaginous septum that enables the surgeon to create stable and accurate tip shape and position. This flap was designed following the spare roof technique B sequence, although it can be completed along with any technique of structure or preservation rhinoplasty.

Mobile Bony Cap (Meysem Yorgun Technique): An Innovative Technique in Preservation Rhinoplasty for Crooked Nose Deformity.

This study included 25 patients with I- or C-shaped crooked nose deformities who underwent correction with a closed-approach let-down procedure. In this technique, the middle vault is preserved, the bony cap is mobilized and preserved, and the lateral nasal bones are equalized by a piezo device or classical osteotomes. By the mobilization of the bony cap, tension on the dorsal septum is released, and slight asymmetries are hidden behind this mobile bony cap. The postoperative angles for both type I and C deformities were closer to the ideal angle, and the difference was statistically significant. All patients were satisfied with their aesthetic and functional results. In this procedure, we correct asymmetries at the lower maxillary nasal junction, such as in the let-down approach, as well as asymmetries at the K-point, such as in the structural approach. Thus, we combine the advantages of both techniques. Additionally, the mobile-bony cap left on the patient is very useful for releasing the tension of the septal dorsum and hiding slight asymmetries that remain below in the patients.

Controlling Supratip Break and Tip Rotation and Projection with Preservation of the Pitanguy Ligament.

In this article, the author describes a new closed rhinoplasty technique in which the Pitanguy ligament was protected, ultimately resulting in better supratip break, tip projection, and tip rotation. Based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria, the records of 156 patients who underwent surgery with this "Pitanguy ligament protection and suturing" technique were evaluated retrospectively. In this novel technique, the Pitanguy ligament was dissected from the proximal and distal points with scissors in the lower third, and it was left intact. There was no need for revision operations in any patient. Twelve months after surgery, the Rhinoplasty Outcome Evaluation scores ranged between 80 and 100 points. The median score was 86.5 points. Patient satisfaction was excellent in 90% of the included cases. Protection of the Pitanguy ligament and attachment of this ligament to the nasal tip create better tip definition and generate several aesthetic and functional advantages. Therapeutic, IV.

The Transoral Alar Batten Graft: A Functional Rhinoplasty Technique for the Orthognathic Jaw Surgery Patient.

Many patients seeking orthognathic jaw surgery also experience nasal obstruction. Current transoral functional rhinoplasty techniques include septoplasty and inferior turbinate reduction, which are performed through the mouth after maxillary downfracture. Although powerful, these interventions do not treat dynamic nasal sidewall collapse. The authors describe a novel transoral alar batten graft. Using the maxillary vestibular approach, septal cartilage is harvested and delivered from the maxillary vestibule into the nasal alar-sidewall junction through a small tunnel. This procedure is simple and versatile, and carries minimal morbidity, enabling the orthognathic jaw surgeon to support the nasal sidewall through a minimal-access approach and improve the patient's nasal function and airway.

Rhinoplasty Technique for Improving Nasal Base Aesthetics: Lateral Columellar Grafting.

One of the most important factors in nasal base aesthetics is symmetry. In the age of social media, the expectations of rhinoplasty patients and the rate of requests for a more symmetrical nose have increased. In this article, a lateral columellar grafting technique that can be applied to augment the more defective side of the columella and obtain a more symmetrical nasal base is presented. A total of 86 patients (women, 79; men, 7) were included in this study. The surfaces of the right and left lateral margins of the columella were evaluated from the basal view at the final stage of surgery, and a lateral columellar graft was placed on the more defective side. All patients who were included in the study were assessed with the Rhinoplasty Outcome Evaluation questionnaire before and 1 year after surgery. The median age of the patients was 28.3 years (range, 18-56 years). Eighty-two patients were primary rhinoplasty patients, and 4 patients were secondary rhinoplasty patients. The median Rhinoplasty Outcome Evaluation score was 68.3 points before surgery and 92.3 points 1 year after surgery, showing a significant increase (P = 0.003). Patient satisfaction was found to be excellent in 93% of the included patients. Using the lateral columellar grafting technique, greater symmetry of the columella and nostrils can be obtained by augmenting the more defective side of the lateral columellar surface.