Lateral crural steal reversible? (Photo)

Question

I didn't want to change anything on the tip of my nose. However, according to the surgical report, my surgeon used a lateral crural steal. is this procedure reversible? I had a closed nose operation 12 months ago and am still very dissatisfied with the tip and found my old tip to be nicer.

Lucian Ion, FRCS · Answer

Thank you for your enquiry.

In general, a lateral crura steal is not fully reversible, since it is also associated with some adjustments to the width of the tip cartilages .

Another reason why restoration of original shape is not possible is related to the support mechanisms of the tip which are altered by the surgery and cannot be put back the same way.

If you can define a tip shape that you find pleasing, it is possible to design a plan to get close to it but never identical to it.

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

I don't believe techniques that are performed during a rhinoplasty can be undone. If you are dissatisfied with the appearance of your nose, issues may be addressed with revision rhinoplasty depending on your examination. Sometimes improvements can be made with a permanent non-surgical nose job as well. I hope this helps! Sincerely, Dr Joseph

Steven M. Denenberg, MD · Answer

A lateral crural steal is usually done to increase the forward projection of the tip of the nose. You didn't mention what it is about your new tip that you don't like. Is it that the projection is too strong? Is the tip too narrow? We need photos. We usually don't think in terms of reversing specific techniques that were done in a previous rhinoplasty. Rather, we think in terms of reversing the *appearance* changes that the patient doesn't like. Sometimes, that involves reversing the specific surgical techniques, but sometimes it involves other changes.

Oakley Smith, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Hi , during a revision surgery waiting period should be at least a year before having more surgery. It is better for you to consult with a facial plastic surgeon who can examine you and discuss the surgical procedure if needed and the post op recovery 
process.

Shabnam Ghazizadeh, MD · Answer

Hi @xnaataaliex, Excellent question. I am a facial plastic surgeon and rhinoplasty specialist. Lateral crural steal itself means suturing the cartilage at a different position to increase projection. The sutures would be reversible however often times there are other techniques that are used at the same time that could weaken the cartilage that may not be reversible. I recommend a consultation with a rhinoplasty specialist. Best of luck, Dr. Ghazizadeh

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

Reading the opera report does not always give you quality information to make assessments.
The fact that a procedure was described in the report does not tell you what was actually done.
To make an assessment regarding the outcome of a plastic surgery procedure, we generally always need to see a complete complete set of proper before and after pictures.
 Reports should always be included when getting a second opinion so that the new surgeon can get the best understanding of what was done during the procedure.
I recommend patience avoided temptation to make their own assessments.
Follow up with your provider and discuss your concerns with him or her. If you want a proper second opinion consultation, then schedule those as in person consultations bringing with you a complete set of proper before and after pictures and a copy of the operative report.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom, MD

Lateral crural steal reversible? (Photo)

Answers (6)

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