Aesthet Surg J. 2022 Jan 25:sjac009. doi: 10.1093/asj/sjac009. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: A stable cartilaginous framework sets up the foundation for a successful rhinoplastic procedure. However, the curvature of the anterior septal angle usually does not match the added tip graft, leaving a structural gap that potentially causes postoperative rotation of the nasal tip. A supplementary graft is required to fill this gap, consolidating this structure at three dimensions.
OBJECTIVES: To detail and validate the utilization of a graft that fills the structural gap for a more stabilized framework and better-sustained tip position in the long term.
METHODS: Intraoperative counter-rotating Newton force and complications were retrospectively collected. Three-dimensional stereophotogrammetric evaluations were performed. Anthropometric points were analyzed in a blinded fashion. Outcome variables were tip projection, nasal length, the Goode ratio, and tip rotation. Results were compared statistically.
RESULTS: Thirty-one female patients, ranging in age from 18-41 years, finished the study. Intraoperative rotating measurement indicated an unequivocal stabilizing effect of the plug-in graft. Postoperative analysis showed great maintenance of tip position over time. Tip projection and nasolabial angle had a slight decrease over time, the differences were not statistically different.
CONCLUSIONS: The plug-in graft effectively consolidates the entire cartilaginous framework in rib-based rhinoplasty procedures. This anatomically integrated structure sets up the fundamental groundwork which provides uncompromising support for the tip graft, so as to achieve an aesthetically pleasing outcome that endures. When executed properly, this graft is effective in maintaining postoperative tip positions, which warrants the technical challenges and the prolonged operating time.
PMID:35078208 | DOI:10.1093/asj/sjac009