Anthropometric measurements of alar cartilage in the Turkish population sample: a comparative study

Alar cartilage anatomy varies significantly across ethnic groups, and understanding these differences is crucial in nasal tip surgery. The aim of this descriptive study was to evaluate the anthropometric properties of the alar cartilage in the Turkish population sample and to compare these data with findings from various other ethnic groups.

Length, width, and thickness measurements were taken from 92 Turkish patients who underwent primary open rhinoplasty. These measurements included the maximum values ​​for each of the lateral crus, middle crus, medial crus and the medial, middle, lateral distances between the caudal border of the lateral crus and the alar rim. The resulting data were statistically analyzed, and comparisons were made between genders and with findings from various ethnic groups.

All measurements of the lateral crus, the length and thickness measurements of the middle crus, and the thickness measurements of the medial crus were found to be significantly greater in males (p < 0.002). It was found that the lengths of the lateral, middle, and medial crura were statistically significantly longer on the left side (p < 0.002). It was observed that in the Turkish population sample, the alar cartilages are generally long and wide, but thin, and the average distances between the caudal border of the lateral crus and the alar rim were moderate.

This study presents baseline anthropometric data for the Turkish alar cartilage. Comparative analysis with other ethnic groups revealed both similarities and distinct differences. Acknowledging these specific ethnic differences is essential for preoperative planning.