[Remodeling of the nasal lobule using cartilaginous grafts on tip projection]

Nasal tip projetion and definition are essential parameters which should be considered in the preoperative rhinoplasty plan. Jonhson and Toriumi have defined a technique of rhinoplasty to restructure the lobule using columellar strut and tip grafts. The aim of this study was to define the influence of this procedure on nasal tip projection, using the Goode method (objective measurement of the tip projection).

Forty patients underwent primary rhinoplasty, by open approach, with remodeling of the lobule using cartilagenous grafts, according to Jonhson and Torium technique. Goode ratio was calculated to assess tip projection preoperatively and postoperatively, based on photographic analysis. Moreover, postoperatively, all patients were clinically evaluated at 2, 4 and 6 months, and based on photographs of face at 2 and 6 months.

Five hypoprojected preoperative nasal tips (Goode ratio (GR): 0,45 to 0,51) had a normal nasal tip projection postoperatively (GR: 0,55 to 0,59). Among the eight normal projected preoperative nasal tips (GR: 0,56 to 0,60), six had a normal postoperative nasal tip projection while two showed a hyperprojection (GR: 0,62 and 0,63). Among the 27 hyperprojected preoperative nasal tips (GR: 0,62 to 0,75), 17 showed a normal projection of the nasal tip postoperatively while 10 remained hyperprojected despite a decreased Goode ratio.

Restructuration of the lobule, using cartilagenous grafts, is a reliable and reproducible technique allowing satisfying aesthetic results and objective measurements of the changes in nasal tip projection using the Goode method.