Alar Rim Composite Graft: A Safe and Simple Way to Correct Alar Retraction

Abstract

Background The alar rim is a complex structure that ensures the competence of the external valves and the patency of inlets to the nasal airways. Retraction of the alar rim is caused by congenital malpositioning, hypoplasia, or surgical weakening of the lateral crura, with the potential for both functional and aesthetic ramifications. Most previously introduced procedures involved a relatively long operation time and relatively high risks of surgical complications. The purpose of this study is to introduce a novel surgical technique for alar rim connection and to present its results. Methods After marking the extent of the correction, the recipient alar bed was created by making an incision through the vestibular skin 2-mm cephalad to the rim. Then, the composite graft was harvested from the cymba concha by removing the cartilage with its adherent anterior skin. According to the degree of retraction, the harvested composite graft was divided into 2 pieces considering the symmetry of both alar rims. The composite grafts were inserted into the defects and primary closure was done at the donor site. Results Our surgical technique was used to correct 12 retracted alar rims in 6 patients. Caudal advancement of the alar rims was observed and the contour of the ala was corrected in all 6 patients. The mean length of follow-up was 1-year, and there were no postoperative complications, such as graft loss or disruption. Conclusions The alar rim composite graft is a safe and simple technique for correction of short nostril and caudal transposition of the retracted alar rim.