Let-Down Rhinoplasty in Patients With Cleft Lip Nose

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Otolaryngology
• Craniofacial Surgery

Background:

• Cleft lip nose (CLN) deformity presents unique challenges in rhinoplasty, significantly impacting nasal aesthetics and function.
• Traditional rhinoplasty techniques may not fully address the complex anatomical variations seen in CLN.
• Dorsal preservation rhinoplasty is an emerging technique gaining traction for improved outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of let-down rhinoplasty in correcting cleft lip nose deformities.
• To assess both aesthetic and functional results in CLN patients undergoing this procedure.
• To compare outcomes with previous rhinoplasty techniques used for CLN.

Main Methods:

• Ten consecutive patients with CLN deformity underwent let-down rhinoplasty (open or closed approach).
• Procedures utilized costal cartilage grafts and full-thickness skin grafts as needed.
• Patient satisfaction and functional outcomes were assessed using a standardized questionnaire.

Main Results:

• All patients reported satisfaction with the aesthetic and functional results of let-down rhinoplasty.
• No functional deficits were reported post-operatively.
• Nostril symmetry was not consistently achieved, particularly in patients who underwent the closed approach.

Conclusions:

• The combination of open approach, skin grafts, cartilage grafts, and let-down rhinoplasty yields promising results for CLN.
• This technique appears to be a viable option for improving aesthetic and functional outcomes in CLN patients.
• Further research is necessary to validate these findings and optimize techniques for improved nostril symmetry.