Dynamics of the alar rim graft

Structural Rhinoplasty through the Endonasal Approach

Structural endonasal rhinoplasty, unlike traditional reductive rhinoplasty, achieves aesthetic and functional objectives while maintaining key structural anatomical elements and minimizing complications.Previously, rhinoplasty was performed using primarily reductive techniques that frequently led to poor functional and cosmetic consequences.Pertinent nasal framework anatomy is reviewed in select highlighted cases.Preferred tools/technology are reviewed for each procedure, including the use of ultrasonic devices.Indications for each endonasal technique are systematically outlined.The most common techniques are reviewed: dorsal hump reduction, spreader graft placement, alar batten and rim grafts, and columellar strut, and caudal extension grafts.Endonasal rhinoplasty allows for reduced postoperative swelling, loss of nasal tip support, as well as decreased scar tissue/contracture formation.Structural endonasal techniques continue to evolve and become more refined with studies demonstrating cosmetic and functional outcomes similar to that of open surgery while achieving less operating time, postoperative complications, and long-term complications. As a result, structural endonasal rhinoplasty is an important surgical principle and approach for the modern rhinoplasty surgeon.

Evaluation and Management of Lateral Wall Insufficiency

Successful treatment of nasal airway obstruction depends on accurate diagnosis of the underlying etiology. Lateral wall insufficiency (LWI) is a common cause of obstructed nasal breathing and should be recognized and treated accordingly by the rhinoplasty surgeon. LWI refers to dynamic collapse of the lateral nasal sidewalls at the internal (zone 1) and external (zone 2) nasal valves. This article serves as an overview of the important aspects in evaluation and management of LWI.

Evidence-Based Dynamics in Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty is a delicate surgical procedure that requires a thorough understanding of the dynamic interplay between the various structures of the nose. Any changes made to one part of the nose can have downstream effects on the overall harmony and appearance of the nose. For this reason, it is crucial for surgeons to be aware of these potential impacts in order to achieve predictable and aesthetically pleasing results. In this article, we aim to provide a summary of the current evidence-based conclusions on the dynamic influence of the radix, dorsum, tip, and ala during rhinoplasty. By understanding the complex relationships between these structures, surgeons can make informed decisions and achieve the best possible outcomes for their patients.

Evaluation and Management of the External Nasal Valve

The external nasal valve is the anatomic structure formed by the caudal septum, alar rim, medial crura of the lower lateral cartilage, and nasal sill at the level of the nasal vestibule. Evaluation of external nasal valve dysfunction is dependent upon a thorough history and physical examination. Symptoms and quality of life impact are the main drivers for patients to seek out clinical evaluation. It is paramount that surgeons are familiar with available nonsurgical and surgical options for the management of external nasal valve dysfunction.

Repairing the Nasal Valve in Revision Surgery

Nasal airway obstruction is a frequent complaint in an otolaryngology clinic and is often multifactorial. Anatomic contributors may include a nasal septal deviation, inferior turbinate hypertrophy, and nasal valve compromise. Septoplasty and inferior turbinate reduction are one of the most common procedures performed by an otolaryngologist. A variety of techniques have been described to strengthen the lateral crura; however, the lateral crural strut graft should be considered in the revision rhinoplasty patient as studies have suggested it is more powerful than other methods without requiring other techniques to strengthen the lateral crura.

Management of Lateral Wall Insufficiency

Lateral wall insufficiency is a commonly encountered etiology of nasal obstruction, resulting from dynamic collapse at the level of the internal or external nasal valve. Various management strategies exist to strengthen the lateral wall or stent the nasal valves to relieve nasal obstruction, and range from noninvasive devices, minimally invasive implants, or surgical reconstructive techniques. Surgical options to address the nasal valves are selected based on each patient's anatomic findings, aesthetic and functional goals, and surgeon preference. This article describes the anatomy and physiology of the nasal sidewall and nasal valves and diagnosis of lateral wall insufficiency, and provides a framework for treatment options.

The Logical Sequence of Primary Open Rhinoplasty Founded on the Principles of Rhinoplasty Dynamics

Rhinoplasty is a perplexing procedure due to the variety of complex interplays between anatomical structures of the nose and the maneuvers used to accomplish the intended objective. Although every rhinoplasty is individualized, having a systematic order and an algorithm is crucial to achieve the designed aesthetic goals and a superior outcome, considering the interactions between maneuvers. Otherwise, the accumulated, unanticipated effects will result in displeasing outcomes due to over or under correction. In this report, we describe the sequential steps of rhinoplasty based on knowledge that the senior author has garnered over four decades of experience and having studied the rhinoplasty dynamics continually. Furthermore, we explain the detailed reasoning for each maneuver based on surgical indications and the resulting interplays.Level of Evidence IV 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 http://www.springer.com/00266.

Diagnosis and Management of Common Presentations of Posttraumatic Nasal Deformity: A Narrative Review

Posttraumatic nasal deformity (PTND) is a surgical challenge for the otolaryngologist and plastic surgeon. Various classifications and management algorithms have been proposed without reaching much consensus in terms of definition and management.

Methods

We present a narrative review aimed to define PTND and consolidate current knowledge regarding its diagnosis, subtypes, and treatment options.

Results

This report is a clinical overview of PTND. We also review recent studies that characterize different osteotomy approaches and techniques used for patients with PTND.

Conclusions

By providing a summary of the main challenges for PTND, we aim to add context to its variable presentation. We hope this broad overview will reinforce more effective communication between providers and promote patient understanding in order to ensure favorable long-term outcomes.

Surgical treatment of dynamic nasal collapse

Nasal obstruction is a prevalent issue that significantly impacts patient quality of life and contributes to a large-scale financial burden. Internal or external nasal valve collapse may play a role in nasal obstruction, with varying etiologies. Surgical correction of nasal valve collapse is indicated when septal and/or turbinate surgery alone are not sufficient in correcting the nasal obstruction. The choice of how to address nasal valve repair depends on presenting findings, associated aesthetic concerns, particularly of the nasal tip, patient anatomy, and surgeon preference. This article provides a methodical approach to the diagnosis of nasal valve collapse, indications for repair, and provides detailed explanation of the operative techniques used to address nasal valve collapse, while also discussing the advantages and disadvantages of each approach.

Expanded Role of Alar Contour Grafts

SUMMARY

Alar rim deformities are among the most common problems affecting patients undergoing both primary and secondary rhinoplasty. They can be caused by several factors such as congenital hypoplasia or malpositioning of the lateral crura, and from acquired surgical weakening during rhinoplasty. Even though altering the structure of the lower lateral cartilage complex can help prevent and correct alar rim deformities, this may not always allow for sufficient control of the alar rim. Alar contour grafts have been proven efficacious not just in the treatment of specific rim deformities but also in their prevention. In this article, the authors present four types of alar contour grafts and discuss their expanded role in the prevention and treatment of alar rim deformities.

Comparative Effectiveness of Cartilage Grafts in Functional Rhinoplasty for Nasal Sidewall Collapse

Objective: To compare the patient-reported outcomes among patients with nasal obstruction undergoing two rhinoplasty techniques to a control group. Methods: Prospective longitudinal study in a university-based tertiary care medical center. All patients undergoing functional septorhinoplasty for correction of lateral wall insufficiency between October 2015 and March 2019 were included; n = 704, mean age (standard deviation) 39.0 (15.4) years, 52.7% females. Patients completed the Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE) and FACE-Q subscales pre- and postoperatively. Patients were divided into three cohorts: spreader and lateral crural strut (LCS) grafts (n = 141), spreader and alar rim (AR) grafts (n = 104), and the control spreader grafts alone (n = 218). Results: The median NOSE scores at last postoperative visit were improved from baseline (p < 0.001) for all cohorts. The FACE-Q nasal satisfaction median scores also improved postoperatively in all cohorts, AR, LCS, and spreader, respectively (p = 0.001, p < 0.001, and p < 0.0001). Conclusions: There was no detectable difference in the improved subjective nasal function, nor adverse aesthetic outcomes in the patients with lateral wall insufficiency treated with functional rhinoplasty techniques in this study.

Functional Role of Scroll Reconstruction in Open Rhinoplasty

BACKGROUND

The scroll area of the nose is important for breathing; thereby, its reconstruction can improve the nasal patency.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of scroll reconstruction on breathing in patients following open rhinoplasty.

METHODS

Using the prospective controlled study design, we enrolled a cohort of patients undergoing open rhinoplasty. The patients were randomly divided into two groups (each group with n = 14). The predictor variable was scroll reconstruction (yes/no). The main outcome variables include pre- and postoperative third-month peak nasal inspiratory flowmeter (PNIF) value (ml/min) and 10-Item Standardized Cosmesis and Health Nasal Outcomes Survey (SCHNOS). Appropriate statistics were computed, and a P < 0.05 was considered significant.

RESULTS

There was no demographic difference between both groups. Scroll reconstruction was associated with significantly improved PNIF post-surgery (P = 0.047). However, postoperative mean SCHNOS-O and SCHNOS-C was not different between the study and control groups (P = 0.58) CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests that scroll reconstruction helps improve nasal patency during forced inspiration in open rhinoplasty patients and provides a similar aesthetic outcome compared to the non-scroll-reconstructed group. Future research works should be done in a larger patient cohort.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV

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 .

Economizing the Septal Cartilage for Grafts During Rhinoplasty, 40 Years' Experience

BACKGROUND

During rhinoplasty, it is typically necessary to use cartilage to shape and support the final nasal construct to provide both form and function to the nose (Tanna et al. in Plast Reconstr Surg 141(1):137e-151e, 2018; Guyuron in Plast Reconstr Surg 105(6):2257-2259, 2000; Kim et al. in Ann Plast Surg 65(6):519-523, 2010). The septal cartilage is the ideal graft both for its ease of access and quality of cartilage. However, this graft is a limited resource, and economy of its use is important as to negate the need to harvest cartilage from the ear or rib.

THE PURPOSE

1. To share the senior author's 40 years' experience with the economy of septal cartilage. 2. To identify the areas of the septal cartilage most suitable for a particular graft. 3. To discuss the common grafts that are used in rhinoplasty. 4. To identify when other sources of cartilage are needed and where to best use those grafts. 5. To present option for preservation of the leftover septal cartilage.

CONCLUSION

Overall consideration should focus on the size, thickness, and curvature of the graft contemplating the structural and functional needs of the rhinoplasty maneuvers.

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 .

Management of the Cephalic Positioning of the Lower Lateral Cartilage in Modern Rhinoplasty: An Algorithmic Approach

Cephalic positioning of lateral cruras literally means that the cartilage does not support the nasal rim. Cephalic positioning is a relatively common anatomic variant of lower lateral cartilages that shows an extremely vulnerable rhinoplasty patient. In these patients, any reductive technique, such as cephalic trimming without compensation, worsens the situation and may lead to esthetic failures and airway compromise. True cephalic malpositioning needs to be diagnosed from pseudomalpositions preoperatively. The presence of the pseudomalposition does not mean that it can be ignored. Either malposition or pseudomalposition is best diagnosed and considered in the treatment plan.

The Role of the Depressor Nasi Septi Muscle in Nasal Air Flow

Background

Musculus depressor septi nasi and its tendon, the dermocartilaginous ligament, play an important role in external nasal valve and nasal respiration. If the ligament is cut during septorhinoplasty operations, nasal functions of the nose and facial expressions are affected. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the role of M. depressor septi nasi in nasal respiration at open rhinoplasty operations using rhinomanometry and electromyography.

Methods

The study included 29 patients who had only external nasal deformity (nasal hump deformity). All patients underwent open rhinoplasty. The dermocartilaginous ligament of the patients in the study group (DCL + group) was repaired but not in the control group (DCL − group). Rhinomanometry and electromyography were applied to all patients preoperatively and postoperatively.

Results

In the DCL − group, right and left nasal airflow values were significantly lower in post-op (562.92 cm³/s and 548.57 cm³/s), whereas right, left, and total nasal resistances were significantly lower in pre-op (0.28 Pa/cm³/s, 0.22 Pa/cm³/s, and 0.11 Pa/cm³/s). Statistically significant differences were not found between rhinomanometric measurements in pre-op and post-op values of the DCL + group. Post-op right, left and mean values of M. depressor septi nasi amplitude in the DCL + group (2.05 mV, 2.0 mV, 2.02 mV) were significantly higher than those in the DCL − group (1.52 mV, 1.61 mV, 1.57 mV).

Conclusion

Repair of the dermocartilaginous ligament during open rhinoplasty operations enhances nasal respiratory functions by expanding the external nasal valve through M. depressor septi nasi and allows the nose to participate in mimic movements.

Level of Evidence IV

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.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1007/s00266-020-01693-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Updated Dynamics of Rhinoplasty: A Review of the Literature and Comprehensive List of the Findings

BACKGROUND

The cardinal reason accounting for the complexity of rhinoplasty is that each maneuver during this operation has both intended and unintended effects. The purpose of this report is to review the literature and update the dynamics of rhinoplasty.

METHODS

PubMed searches were conducted for "rhinoplasty dynamics" as well for keywords associated with each specific rhinoplasty maneuver. Titles were evaluated for relevance, and duplicates were consolidated with years of publication 1991 to 2019. Article types include case series (retrospective and prospective), cohort studies, and review articles.

RESULTS

Beginning with the radix, its reduction apparently elongates the nose and widens the intercanthal space, while radix augmentation creates the opposite illusions. In a similar manner, dorsal hump reduction widens both the nose and intercanthal space. Nasal tip dynamics focus on the aftermath of changes to tip projection, width, and rotational position. Resection of the upper lateral cartilages can cephalically rotate the tip and reduce tip width. Manipulation of the footplates of the medial crura primarily influences the columella but can also affect tip projection. Placement of a columellar strut firmly establishes tip position. Placement of alar rim grafts advances the ala caudally, widens the nostrils, and elongates the short nostril. Alar base reduction can create the illusion of increased tip projection. Augmentation and reduction in the anterior nasal spine influence tip projection, upper lip length, and the nasolabial angle.

CONCLUSIONS

As rhinoplasty techniques continue to evolve, surgeons undertaking this operation must continue to reassess the dynamics of various maneuvers.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III

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.

Transcutaneous Alar Rim Graft: An Effective Technique to Manage Alar Deformity

Rhinoplasty is one of the most challenging cosmetic surgical procedures. Although different techniques have been introduced for grafting the osteocartilaginous part of the nose, the alar rim remains vastly unexamined. The form and strength of the alar rim are crucial in nasal tip esthetics and function. External valve collapse may occur owing to trauma, congenital weakness, or malposition of the lower lateral cartilage (LLC). Alar pinching and collapse are possible outcomes if there is any over-resection of the cephalic portion of the LLC. Traditionally, the closed technique creates a tunnel, dissected along an incision made in the soft triangle lining near the most anterior portion of the nostril rim. Alar rim grafts also can run through the marginal incision. The main goal of this study was to introduce a straightforward and effective technique for alar rim grafting, which can help surgeons with more precise placement. A total of 84 patients (61 female and 13 male patients) underwent transcutaneous alar rim grafting. After the alar base resection, a 2-mm stab incision was made in the bulk of the incised alar, using a No. 11 blade. Thereafter, a pocket was created through the alar fibrofatty tissue, which crossed the ala up to near the dome, and a cartilage graft was inserted in the tunnel. Transcutaneous alar rim grafting is a simple and effective approach to provide support for the external nasal valve and increase alar harmony. If the nasal tip analysis shows malpositioned LLC, alar flaring, an over-projected nasal tip, mild retraction, or contour asymmetries, this type of grafting may prove effective in primary or secondary rhinoplasty.

Revisiting the Alar-Columellar Relationship: Classification and Correction

The alar-columellar relationship has tremendous aesthetic significance in the lower one-third of the nose. Aberrancies in the alar-columellar relationship detract from nasal aesthetics, and are classified into six types: type I, hanging columella; type II, retracted ala; type III, combination of a hanging columella and retracted ala; type IV, hanging ala; type V, retracted columella, and type VI, combination of a hanging ala and retracted columella. This article describes the methods for proper evaluation and diagnosis of aberrancies in the alar-columellar relationship, and current strategies to restore the ideal alar-columellar relationship. CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:: Therapeutic, V.

[External nasal valve. Method of reconstruction with its dysfunction]

The aim of this work is to improve the reconstruction techniques the external nasal valve, with its dysfunction caused by vertically located lateral legs of the lower lateral cartilage. There is shown a brief analysis of the anatomy of the external and internal nasal valve, methods of reconstruction with its dysfunction and surgical correction of this. The method of reconstruction of the external nasal valve is proposed, where we have used the isolation and removal of the vertically extending lateral legs lower lateral cartilage and expansion of the valve zone by an auto / allogeneic cartilaginous graft. The advantages and disadvantages of the proposed method are estimated.

Repair of Lateral Wall Insufficiency

Importance

Lateral wall insufficiency (LWI) is classified by the zone in which it occurs. Multiple techniques for treating LWI are described in the literature and are used, but no treatment approach has been widely adopted.

Objective

To establish an algorithm for treatment of LWI by evaluating subjective and objective outcomes of patients who underwent LWI repair and comparing these results with those of a control group who received no specific LWI repair.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This case-control study was conducted in a tertiary referral center. In group 1, there were 44 patients who underwent septorhinoplasty to repair LWI between February 1, 2014, and May 31, 2016. In group 2, there were 44 age- and sex-matched patients who underwent cosmetic septorhinoplasty without LWI repair. Data analysis was conducted from February 1, 2014, to May 31, 2016.

Intervention

Open septorhinoplasty.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE) scores and LWI grades.

Results

Forty-four patients (8 men and 36 women, with a mean [SD] age of 46 [16] years) who underwent open septorhinoplasty to repair LWI and 44 age- and sex-matched patients (composed of 8 men and 36 women, with a mean [SD] age of 41 [12] years) were included in the study. The mean (SD) preoperative NOSE scores were 69.4 (22) in group 1 and 20.5 (20.8) in group 2 (P < .001). The NOSE scores in both groups significantly improved after surgery (44.7 [95% CI, -28.9 to -49.9; P < .001] and -14.5 [95% CI, -2.7 to -18.5; P = .02]), although the improvement in group 2 was not clinically significant. The mean preoperative LWI grades were higher in group 1 than in group 2 for each zone (P < .001 and P = .001) but were similar between groups for each zone after surgery. Postoperative LWI scores significantly decreased in group 1 to levels similar to that of group 2. A positive linear correlation was noted between NOSE scores and LWI grades, with the strongest correlation between preoperative zone 1 LWI grades and NOSE scores (R = 0.68). Lateral crural strut grafts were used for zone 1 LWI and alar rim grafts were used for zone 2 LWI.

Conclusions and Relevance

The LWI grading system enables surgeons to localize LWI, tailor the surgical treatment to the patient, and monitor improvements in the postoperative period.

Level of Evidence

3.

Correction of the Over-resected Nose

Overzealous reduction during rhinoplasty may result in manifold functional as well as aesthetic injuries to the nose and is a prevailing antecedent of revision rhinoplasty. Although challenges for the revision rhinoplasty surgeon abound, careful assessment of the anatomic deficiencies of the nose, accurate evaluation and management of a patient's expectations, and precise planning and execution of surgical technique serve to facilitate a successful result. Contemporary techniques for correction of the over-resected nose are discussed, with special attention directed toward costal cartilage grafting and diced cartilage fascia techniques.

Alar Rim Reconstruction With Autologous Graft Cartilage: External Approach

Alar deformities are frequently sequels of the incorrect primary rhinoplasties. Malpositions and irregular cartilage as consequence of either inadequated or exaggerated resection are the skeletal representation not only of aesthetic deformities but also collapse or depression, airway obstruction, valve narrowing by scarring, etc. Replace of alar cartilage is mandatory and many techniques have been described using autogenous cartilage graft since either ear or costal areas. Basically, a pocket must be made inside the thickness of ala permitting the placement of the graft. In our experience the placement of the graft was made by an incision in the fold in the base of the ala and a wide and net alar undermining, carving a pocket was carried out until the tip by means of sharp dissection with the scalpel, permitting the placement of the graft "like a sandwich." The reason for this publication is to describe a surgical technique that permits an exact and correct placement of the graft obtaining the recuperation of normal shape, form projection, and functionality of the ala. The external alar incision is conspicuous and it remains hiding inside natural fold in the alar base.

The Joint Tip Graft: A Joint Support for Rim, Facet and Infratip Lobule in Rhinoplasty

BACKGROUND

The authors of this study have developed a novel graft called the 'The Joint Tip Graft' which adds support to the lateral crus, camouflages the tip grafts, supports the facet and adds volume to the nasal tip as a single graft. The aim of this study was to define and introduce the tripod graft.

METHODS

Thirty patients who underwent primary rhinoplasty at a tertiary academic center were included. Patients were randomly assigned into two groups according to the grafts used: group 1: Joint tip graft was additionally used, and group 2: Joint tip graft was not used. All patients were photographed by a photographer who is familiar with medical photography. Preoperative and postoperative sixth month photographs were taken for analysis. The brightest point of the infratip lobule and the darkest point of the facets were selected and analyzed with computer software. The luminance ratio of facet to infratip lobule was calculated to overcome light and head position differences.

RESULTS

Mean infratip luminance scores were 112.20 ± 5.72 and 109.73 ± 7.13 in groups 1 and 2, respectively (p > 0.05). Mean facet luminance scores were 101.33 ± 4.91 and 89.27 ± 5.11 in groups 1 and 2, respectively (p < 0.05). Facet/infratip luminance ratios were calculated for each group. Mean facet/infratip luminance ratios were 0.90 ± 0.01 and 0.82 ± 0.16 for groups 1 and 2, respectively (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The joint tip graft is a novel graft that is easy to harvest and apply. It spans both of the alar cartilages, supports the facet area and creates a smooth gradual light shadow transition. Additionally, it acts as a camouflage over the tip grafts.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV

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 .

Cephalic Rotation of the Nasal Tip

The position of the nasal tip holds important aesthetic significance. Cephalic rotation of the nasal tip is a frequent motivating factor for patients seeking rhinoplasty. The position of the nasal tip is a complex interplay of the size, morphology, and position of several anatomical components of the lower one-third of the nose. Cephalic rotation can be achieved by means of six different methods. The indirect methods promote passive cephalic rotation and include cephalic trim of the lower lateral cartilages, caudal trim of the upper lateral cartilages, and caudal septal trim. Direct methods involve precise repositioning of the domes and include shortening the lateral crura, lateral domal relocation, and the tip rotation suture. Used alone or in combination, these techniques and their subtle variations represent comprehensive and effective methods to achieve cephalic rotation of the nasal tip.

The Relation Between the Lower Lateral Cartilages and the Function of the External Nasal Valve

INTRODUCTION

The position of the lower lateral cartilages (LLC) is closely related to the function of the external nasal valve (ENV). When there is a cephalic malposition of these cartilages, the nasal alae have inadequate support, which leads to ENV insufficiency during deep inspiration.

METHODS

Retrospective study with 60 patients evaluated: the positioning of the LLC and the occurrence of ENV insufficiency; the effectiveness of structuring the medial and lateral walls of the ENV; and the frequency of the grafts used for structuring it.

RESULTS

Of the 60 operated cases, 37 patients (62%) had ENV insufficiency, in 23 cases there was cephalic malposition of the LLC, and in the latter group 17 patients (74%) presented this insufficiency. A structured ENV was effective in the treatment of this insufficiency (p = 0.001). A lateral crural strut graft was performed in 24 cases (40%) of 60 patients operated. The alar contour graft was performed from 2013 to 2015 in 4 patients (22%) of 18 cases operated, and between 2016 and 2018 it was performed in 29 patients (69%) out of 42 cases. The columellar strut was routinely used from 2013 to mid-2016 in 33 cases (100%), and after that period until the present day the tongue-in-groove technique was performed in 11 cases (41%) and in the remaining 16 cases (59%) the caudal septal extension graft was performed.

CONCLUSION

Cephalic malposition of the LLC is an important red flag of ENV insufficiency. This insufficiency should be treated by structuring the walls of the ENV.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV

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 .

The Infratip Lobule Butterfly Graft: Balancing the Transition from the Tip Lobule to the Alar Lobule

The nasal alae and the soft-tissue triangles are delicate structures, the contours of which are largely dependent on soft tissue and the indirect influence of the lower lateral cartilages. Creating appropriate and continuous contour from the tip lobule to the alar lobule can be challenging. The alar contour graft is one reliable method of achieving predictable contour. However, alar contour grafts of ideal length may be scarce. The butterfly graft is a simple, reliable, and predictable method of providing support in the region of the soft triangle, and spans the region between the tip lobule and alar lobule, thereby balancing the transition between these regions.

Correction of saddle and short noses

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The review summarizes the basic concepts and recent updates on the management of saddle and short noses, with a particular focus on the selection of septal reconstruction techniques and dorsal augmentation material.

RECENT FINDINGS

Different techniques have been reported for septal cartilage reconstruction, including various combinations of extended spreader and caudal septal extension grafts, as well as L-strut grafts. For dorsal augmentation, materials that help avoid costal cartilage warping including, diced costal cartilage with or without fascia, costal cartilage obtained by oblique cutting, diced conchal cartilage with perichondrial attachments, and lipofilling of the nasal dorsum have been reported.

SUMMARY

The article highlights the importance of rebuilding the septal cartilage support system by the proper use of costal cartilage and selection of an appropriate technique for the successful management of saddle and short noses. In addition, the importance of selecting suitable dorsal augmentation materials and other adjunctive maneuvers are emphasized.

Preventing Soft-Tissue Triangle Collapse in Modern Rhinoplasty

The unique anatomy of the soft-tissue triangle makes it prone to notching in primary, secondary, and reconstructive rhinoplasty. Understanding the anatomy of the region is critical to appropriate treatment. This article is meant to further clarify the anatomy of the soft-tissue triangle and to present the senior author's (R.J.R.) approach to proactive correction and prevention of soft-tissue triangle notching through five key steps: (1) precise dissection and incision placement, (2) providing internal support with cartilage grafting if needed, (3) closure of dead space, (4) avoiding undue tension during closure, and (5) providing external support postoperatively.

Alar Rim Deformities

The alar rim plays an important role in nasal harmony. Alar rim flaws are common following the initial rhinoplasty. Classification of the deformities helps with diagnosis and successful surgical correction. Diagnosis of the deformity requires careful observation of the computerized or life-sized photographs. Techniques for treatment of these deformities can easily be learned with attention to detail.

A Practical Approach to Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty continues to be one of the most commonly performed aesthetic surgical procedures. Over the past 25 years, the open approach has increased in popularity and is the focus of this article. The principles for successful rhinoplasty include comprehensive clinical analysis and defining rhinoplasty goals, preoperative consultation and planning, precise operative execution, postoperative management, and critical analysis of one's results. Systematic nasal analysis is critical to establish the goals of surgery. Techniques to address the nasal dorsum, nasal airway, tip complex, alar rims, and bony vault that provide consistent results are discussed.

Alar Contour Grafts in Rhinoplasty: A Safe and Reproducible Way to Refine Alar Contour Aesthetics

BACKGROUND

Alar rim deformities such as retraction, notching, collapse, and asymmetry are common problems in rhinoplasty patients. Although alar rim deformities may be improved through rhinoplasty, this area is prone to late changes because of scarring of the soft triangles and a paucity of native structural support. The purpose of this study was to analyze the effect of alar contour grafts on primary rhinoplasty.

METHODS

Fifty consecutive primary rhinoplasty patients with preoperative and postoperative photographs who received alar contour grafts were evaluated for alar aesthetics; 50 consecutive primary rhinoplasty patients without such grafts served as controls. Differences among alar retraction, notching, collapse, and asymmetry from anterior, lateral, and basal views were evaluated. Follow-up ranged from 1 to 4 years and was graded on a four-point scale.

RESULTS

The average difference between the two groups' aggregate preoperative scores was 0.21 (p = 0.24). The average preoperative and postoperative scores in the nongraft group were significant for worsening retraction, notching, and collapse but insignificant for asymmetry. The preoperative and postoperative scores for the graft group were insignificant for retraction but improved significantly for notching, collapse, and asymmetry. Postoperatively, the aggregate average of the scores in the nongroup was 0.32 points worse (p < 0.01), whereas the graft group had a 0.33-point improvement (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Alar contour grafts have a clear and important impact on cosmetic results of primary rhinoplasty. Use of alar contour grafts has been shown to improve aesthetics, whereas there is a worsening of the measured parameters postoperatively without use of these grafts.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic, III.