Background:
Pinched nasal tip deformity is a common aesthetic problem after bulbous tip reduction. Cephalization of lower lateral cartilage(LLC) not only causes smaller nasal tip width, but also retracts medial alar rim margin. Therefore, pinched deformity is easily found after this kind of procedures. Many surgical nuances have been advocated to prevent this problem, but no one emphasized on the LLC mucosal lining manipulation before.
Method:
Before cephalization of LLC, the LLC mucosal lining was separated from the cartilage over soft tissue triangle area. With the aid of alar contouring graft or umbrella-shaped columellar strut, the LLC mucosa lining can be well advanced when closing the wound and retraction of alar rim margin can be prevented.
Results:
Pinched nasal tip deformity can be prevented with better tip and alar rim shape in those with LLC mucosal lining advancement cases.
Conclusion:
Careful manipulation of LLC is essential for optimal result of bulbous tip refinement. LLC mucosal lining manipulation is one important but easily neglected part. Release and advancement of mucosa helps in prevention of pinched nasal tip deformity
Key word:
Rhinoplasty; Bulbous tip; Lower lateral cartilage mucosal lining; Soft tissue triangle; Pinched nasal tip deformity

Download