3D Photogrammetric Analysis of the Nasal Tip Projection and Derotation Based on the Nasal Tip Quadripod Concept

Regarding septal fixation in nasal tip plasty, the nasal tip tripod theory may require modification. We performed three-dimensional (3D) photogrammetric analysis of the "Skiff graft," which is a quadripod method involving folded conchal cartilages fixated on the caudal septal angle, paired lateral crura reinforced by a derotational conchal cartilage graft, and conjoined medial crus on the columella base. We assessed the efficacy of the Skiff graft in maintaining tip projection and preventing cephalic rotation of the nasal tip.

In total, 39 patients who underwent nasal tip plasty with the Skiff graft during 2012-2015 and underwent 3D photogrammetry before (T0), immediately postoperatively (T1, average of 1 week postoperatively), and an average of 215 days postoperatively (T2) were included. Nasal tip projection was objectively measured from images using a software program.

The average differences between the T0 and T1, T0 and T2, and T1 and T2 lengths were 4.81, 3.57, and 0.85 mm, respectively. Thus, 81% of the change in tip projection length that had been achieved immediately postoperatively was maintained at T2 based on 3D photogrammetry (P < 0.001). The relapse ratio of the examined technique was 19.26% (mean, 0.85 mm; P < 0.001).

Nasal tip plasty with the Skiff graft preserves septal support and is an effective primary and revision rhinoplasty technique in Asian patients. This approach may be suitable as an alternative to nasal tip plasty with the septal extension graft in terms of maintaining nasal tip projection, rotational controllability, and nasal mobility.

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