The SPF-SPLF Graft: Building the Ideal Dorsum in Revision Rhinoplasty

Achieving a natural appearing dorsum in secondary rhinoplasty remains an elusive goal. An inherent contradiction exists between the two most usually used techniques: solid rib segment and diced cartilage fascia constructs. The former will often cause edge visibility, in addition to potential warping and distortion; the latter prevents from both but may generate obtuse, ill-defined borders with poor shape control, possible contour asymmetries, and often a tubular appearance. A solution to the equation can be found in an innovative technique that combines three elements: perichondrium, rectus fascia, and a rib lamination. The combination is called the sandwich of perichondrium and fascia (SPF) or the sandwich of perichondrium, rib lamination, and fascia (SPLF). As a single unit over the entire dorsum, the issues of junction irregularity inherent in the use of separate graft segments, and of asymmetries in the dorsal contour because of inadequate distribution of diced cartilage, are avoided. In a greater than 18-month experience on 23 cases at the time of writing, the SPF-SPLF graft has proved to be an ideal solution. Adequate edge definition and elegant related shadowing are provided, precise tailoring is attained, and proper height of the dorsum contour is reestablished, following adequate reconstruction of the underlying dorsal plateau. The gradual flow from SPF to SPLF is logical and progressive according to need, and proper fixation ensures long-term stability of the hybrid construct. All three elements required are harvested from the same donor site with a resulting minimal scar.