The Effect of the Vertical Alar Resection (VAR) Technique on Tip Stability; Long-Term Results

Main properties of nasal tip are the nasal tip projection (NTP), the nasal tip rotation (NTR), and the definition. Its surgery is difficult due to anatomic variations, pathologies, and various surgery possibilities. The ideal technique must also provide good results in long-term. The aim of the study was to analyze long-term results of vertical alar resection (VAR) technique in rhinoplasty.

Forty-eight patients who underwent rhinoplasty operations that VAR method was used by senior author between 2001 and 2017 were included into the study (42 women and six men). The mean age of patients was 35.5 years (range 18-56 years). Mean post-operative follow-up period was 86.8 months (range 25-225 months). We analyzed pre=operative, early, and late post-operative photographs of patients. NTP and NTR changes in years were objectively evaluated. Patients also completed Rhinoplasty Outcome Evaluation questionnaire in their last control visit.

Mean NTP (through Goode Method) was changed from 0.60 in early to 0.59 in late post-operative control, mean nasofacial angle from 29.4 in early to 28.7 in late post-operative control. Mean nasolabial angle (NLA) changed from 97.3 to 94.5 and Tip rotation angle (TRA) from 35.2 to 35.4 between early and late post-operative control. Differences between early and late post-operative measures of NTP and NLA were significant (p<0.001 for all), but TRA did not changed significantly (p>0.001).

VAR is a useful method for modifications of lateral crura and nasal tip. With VAR, we can control NTP and NTR, length of lateral crus and nose; get satisfying and long lasting results.