Cadaveric analysis of nasal valve suspension

This study was designed to measure the efficacy of a nasal valve suspension technique and determine the adequate traction length without creation of nasofacial fullness in a cadaveric model. Seven fresh frozen cadaveric heads were evaluated. Minimal cross-sectional (MCA) areas were measured with a transient-signal acoustic rhinometer (Ecco Vision; Hood Instruments, Pembroke, MA) before and after suspension. The adequate traction length, which did not cause obvious changes, was determined. Five millimeters of lateral nasal valve traction was determined to be the maximal traction achievable without creating facial fullness. After lateral nasal suspension, average MCA increased by 13.7%. Average distance to the MCA from the nostril changed from 1.57 to 1.76 cm. Postsuspension values were significantly higher than the presuspension values (p < 0.05). Nasal valve suspension with 5 mm of lateral traction has a significant impact on nasal valve area without obvious nasofacial changes.