The alar rim flap: a novel technique to manage malpositioned lateral crura.

BACKGROUND: Alar cartilage malposition is a common anatomic variation in which the axis of the lateral crus lies cephalically and may be parallel to the cephalic septum. Malposition of the lateral crura may produce inward collapse of the alae that is observable on deep inspiration.

OBJECTIVES: The authors performed the alar rim flap technique to treat patients with alar malposition and assessed functional and aesthetic outcomes.

METHODS: Twelve patients who underwent primary open rhinoplasty with the alar rim flap technique were evaluated in a prospective study. A 2- or 3-mm caudal portion of the lateral crus was elevated from the underlying mucosa, pulled caudally, and extended with a cartilage graft. This extension of the alar rim flap was placed through the pyriform aperture for additional support. Patients completed pre- and postoperative questionnaires addressing nasal obstruction and underwent paranasal computed tomography. Patients received follow-up for an average of 16 months (range, 8-27 months).

RESULTS: Patients with alar cartilage malposition and external valve insufficiency experienced aesthetic and functional improvements after rhinoplasty with the alar rim flap technique. No patients developed alar rim collapse or flap displacement.

CONCLUSIONS: The alar rim flap technique is effective for the correction of malpositioned lateral crura and external valve insufficiency. Because this technique does not damage the scroll area, disruption of the internal valve area is avoided.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4 Therapeutic.