Can skin be too tight for revision rhinoplasty alar rim graft? (Photo)

Question

My doctor said my skin may be too tight and the scar tissue too hard. Is this something that Doctors see in a Revision aIar rim graft for notching? I’m going in for revision 11months post op.

Thomas A. Mustoe, MD, FACS · Answer

Nostril show ( alar retraction) can often be helped with an alar rim graft which can be done as minor procedure.  However, often the scar tissue that is part of the healing process and a result of the first surgery may be too stiff to allow sufficient correction with a rim graft and then a formal revision rhinoplasty is needed with resection of scar tissue and more substantial cartilage grafting.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

The photographs demonstrate hanging columella, not alar notching.  This is treated with conservative skin and cartilage removal from the columella.  Placement of alar rim graft is made through the inside of the nostrils and a small pocket was made for insertion of the cartilage graft.

Can skin be too tight for revision rhinoplasty alar rim graft? (Photo)

Answers (2)

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Revision Rhinoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Can skin be too tight for revision rhinoplasty alar rim graft? (Photo)

Answers (2)

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Revision Rhinoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.