Middle Vault Dorsal Augmentation in Rhinoplasty as "Push-up" Preservation Technique or as "Modified Dorsal Split...

Primary or secondary dorsal augmentation rhinoplasty addresses aesthetic and functional issues related to a deficient, under-projected, or depressed nasal dorsum, frequently in middle vault. Traditional treatments often involve costal cartilage grafts, which can result in palpable irregularities and additional morbidity. Implementing dorsal preservation techniques in selected patients may improve predictability and outcomes of dorsal augmentation.

We conducted a case series involving 12 patients with saddle nose deformities and significant nasal function impairment. All patients underwent either "push-up" preservation technique or "modified dorsal split extended push-up" technique. The techniques were evaluated for feasibility, safety, and efficacy. Functional outcomes were assessed using the nasal obstruction symptom evaluation (NOSE) scale preoperatively and three months postoperatively.

Eight patients underwent "push-up" technique, and four patients required "dorsal split extended push-up" technique due to extensive scarring and mucosal adhesions from previous surgeries. All patients demonstrated significant postoperative improvement in nasal function as indicated by a reduction in NOSE scores (p < 0.05). Aesthetic outcomes showed a naturally augmented and smooth dorsum with no palpable irregularities. Patient satisfaction was rated very high (9 or 10 out of 10) in 10 patients and high (7 or 8 out of 10) in 2 patients. Follow-up was 6 months.

"Push-up" preservation technique and its extended variant provide a new surgical alternative for primary and secondary rhinoplasty with costal cartilage. These techniques offer improved and highly predictable aesthetic outcomes of the nasal dorsum with decreased morbidity, demonstrating significant potential for clinical practice and future research.

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