Lateral crural retrodisplacement for superior rotation of the tip in rhinoplasty

Abstract

Three techniques for producing superior rotation of the nasal tip are presented. One merely retrodisplaces the lateral crura on the upper lateral cartilages, one horizontally shortens the lateral crura by resection of cartilage between their anterior and posterior extremities, and one transects the cartilage in a curved fashion to allow the anterior portions of the lateral crura to be rotated on the posterior portions and upper lateral cartilages. All three techniques allow maintenance of good airways and a “strong valve” tending to prevent inspiratory collapse and visible external dimpling. The procedures are based on physiologic and anatomic principles. Details of the methods and short-term and long-term results are shown.