[Surgical importance of the nasal valve]

The nasal valve is anatomically well defined, but, on a clinical point of view, it is more appropriate to talk about the nasal valve area. If the valve itself represents a three-step dynamic structure, its air-flow regulating function may be disturbed by minor adjacent structures deformations. It is of utmost importance to recognize the nasal valve dysfunction among patients with nasal obstruction complaints and to avoid any iatrogenic action at this level during rhinoplastic procedures. The various abnormalities of the nasal valve area described. Some general rules are outlined to repair this very delicate structure. In severe cases, good results are difficult to be reached. It is far better to adopt preventive rhinoplastic procedures.