The contoured auricular projection graft for nasal tip projection

In all rhinoplasty surgery, the universal need exists to increase, decrease, or preserve existing tip projection. When proper tip projection is lacking, a variety of techniques are useful for improving projection. We describe a valuable technique for tip projection, particularly useful and indicated in the Asian rhinoplasty, African American rhinoplasty, and in certain revision rhinoplasties. In the past 15 years, the senior author (M.E.T.) has used the contoured auricular projection graft in selected patients for achieving satisfactory tip projection in patients with blunted tips. The aesthetic outcomes have been predictable, pleasing, and reliable for the long term. Precision pocket preparation for auricular conchal cartilage graft placement is key to symmetry and projection of the final outcome. The results yielded a rounded nasal tip that may be more natural-appearing in Asians, African Americans, and selected patients with revision rhinoplasty. The contoured auricular projection graft provides a highly useful graft for the nasal tip.