Incisor Show-based Selection of Tip Augmentation Rhinoplasty Technique

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Facial Aesthetic Surgery

Background:

• Many patients seeking rhinoplasty exhibit inadequate incisor show.
• Rhinoplasty procedures, particularly columella strut placement, can negatively affect lip position and incisor show.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a refined algorithm for rhinoplasty tip augmentation.
• To address and optimize incisor show and lip position during rhinoplasty.

Main Methods:

• Algorithm development based on 44 years of surgical experience and prior studies.
• Description of 5 common clinical scenarios and tailored tip augmentation techniques.
• Utilizing grafts (e.g., spreader grafts, midline septal extension grafts) and specific strut designs.

Main Results:

• Specific techniques recommended for short columella with inadequate incisor show.
• Strategies to maintain smile aesthetics in patients with optimal lip-incisor relationships.
• Methods to reduce excessive gum show through precise tip augmentation.

Conclusions:

• Tip augmentation in rhinoplasty significantly influences upper lip position and smile aesthetics.
• Preoperative assessment of lip-incisor dynamics is crucial for selecting appropriate augmentation techniques.
• The presented algorithm aids surgeons in achieving predictable and aesthetically pleasing outcomes.