I am researching revision rhinoplasty and want to make sure I have the correct procedure done to fix my pinched tip, noticeable alar creases and breathing problem. My original nose had a wide nasal tip, no hump. Tip has been reduced too much. Am I correct and is this problem called "external valve collapse"? I found two techniques to fix this: 1) alar batten grafts 2) (older technique?) alar spreader grafts (see pic). Which one is the best to correct my problem?
April 27, 2011
Answer: Revision rhinoplasty for a pinched tip
Dear MissLouise,
It is great that you are doing a lot of research before your procedure. That way, you can have an educated conversation with you plastic surgeon regarding revision rhinoplasty. There are several issues that can lead to problems breathing including a deviated septum, enlarged turbinates (soft tissue covered bone inside your nose), external nasal valve collapse (where the nostrils, at their base, collapse when you breathe in), and internal nasal valve collapse (where the pinched areas collapse when you breathe in). You should have a thorough exam by a rhinoplasty specialist who can help guide you in your decisions. I would also recommend getting more than one opinion.
Best,
Nima Shemirani
Helpful 1 person found this helpful
April 27, 2011
Answer: Revision rhinoplasty for a pinched tip
Dear MissLouise,
It is great that you are doing a lot of research before your procedure. That way, you can have an educated conversation with you plastic surgeon regarding revision rhinoplasty. There are several issues that can lead to problems breathing including a deviated septum, enlarged turbinates (soft tissue covered bone inside your nose), external nasal valve collapse (where the nostrils, at their base, collapse when you breathe in), and internal nasal valve collapse (where the pinched areas collapse when you breathe in). You should have a thorough exam by a rhinoplasty specialist who can help guide you in your decisions. I would also recommend getting more than one opinion.
Best,
Nima Shemirani
Helpful 1 person found this helpful
December 17, 2016
Answer: Spreader grafts and alar batten grafts
Spreader grafts are used to cosmetically straighten the concavity on the outside of the nose. They are also used to improve airflow dynamics through the nose when there is vestibular collapse on the internal portion of the nose usually on that concaved side. Alar batten grafts are used to correct asymmetrical alar rim collapse. It is important to research and find a very experienced rhinoplasty surgeon prior to embarking on this endeavor. Look for a surgeon who has performed thousands of rhinoplasties and he or she will have performed thousands of these types of grafts as well.
Helpful 1 person found this helpful
December 17, 2016
Answer: Spreader grafts and alar batten grafts
Spreader grafts are used to cosmetically straighten the concavity on the outside of the nose. They are also used to improve airflow dynamics through the nose when there is vestibular collapse on the internal portion of the nose usually on that concaved side. Alar batten grafts are used to correct asymmetrical alar rim collapse. It is important to research and find a very experienced rhinoplasty surgeon prior to embarking on this endeavor. Look for a surgeon who has performed thousands of rhinoplasties and he or she will have performed thousands of these types of grafts as well.
Helpful 1 person found this helpful