What is structural rhinoplasty?

Structural rhinoplasty focuses on reinforcing and preserving the nasal framework to ensure long-term stability and improved functionality. Unlike traditional rhinoplasty, it aims to support the existing nasal structures rather than removing tissue or cartilage, preventing issues like nasal collapse or breathing difficulties.

What role do grafts play in structural rhinoplasty?

Grafts are essential in structural rhinoplasty for supporting and reshaping the nose. Cartilage grafts from the septum, ear, or rib are used to strengthen areas of the nose, improve breathing, and refine the nasal shape. The choice of graft depends on the specific needs of the patient.

How does structural rhinoplasty address the dorsal hump?

In structural rhinoplasty, instead of removing the dorsal hump, the surgeon reshapes and repositions the tissue to maintain the structural integrity of the nose. This approach ensures a smooth, natural contour and reduces the risk of nasal collapse over time.

What techniques are used for tip refinement in structural rhinoplasty?

Tip refinement in structural rhinoplasty involves the use of cartilage grafts like lateral crural strut grafts and columellar strut grafts. These grafts lift, define, and support the nasal tip, creating a more balanced appearance while maintaining the nose's structural strength.

Does structural rhinoplasty include functional improvements?

Yes, structural rhinoplasty often includes functional improvements like septoplasty, which corrects a deviated septum to enhance airflow and improve breathing. By combining aesthetic and functional techniques, structural rhinoplasty can address both cosmetic and breathing concerns.

How are osteotomies used in structural rhinoplasty?

Osteotomies in structural rhinoplasty involve controlled cuts in the nasal bones to reshape or reposition them. This technique is used to narrow a wide nose or correct crooked bones, contributing to the overall stability and refined appearance of the nasal structure.

What is alar base reduction in structural rhinoplasty?

Alar base reduction is a technique used to reduce the width of wide or flared nostrils. It involves removing a small wedge of tissue at the nostril base while maintaining the structural strength of the nasal base for a more harmonious appearance.

What are the advantages of structural rhinoplasty?

Structural rhinoplasty offers long-term stability by reinforcing the nasal framework, reducing the risk of nasal collapse or breathing issues post-surgery. It focuses on both aesthetic beauty and functionality, providing natural-looking results that stand the test of time.

Techniques Used in Structural Rhinoplasty

Structural rhinoplasty has become a popular choice for patients seeking to improve both the appearance and functionality of their nose. Unlike traditional rhinoplasty, which often focuses on reshaping the outer structure of the nose, structural rhinoplasty emphasizes reinforcing and preserving the nasal framework to ensure long-term stability and aesthetic results. At VIVE Plastic Surgery, our expert surgeons utilize a variety of advanced techniques to achieve natural-looking outcomes that enhance both form and function. In this article, we’ll explore the key techniques used in structural rhinoplasty and how they contribute to a successful procedure.

Understanding Structural Rhinoplasty

Structural rhinoplasty differs from reduction rhinoplasty in its approach. Rather than removing tissue or cartilage, the goal of structural rhinoplasty is to support and reinforce the existing nasal structures. This results in a nose that maintains its shape and function over time, preventing common issues like nasal collapse or breathing difficulties that can occur after more aggressive reductions.

Grafts and Cartilage Reshaping

One of the hallmarks of structural rhinoplasty is the use of grafts to support and shape the nasal structure. Grafts are small pieces of cartilage taken from other areas of the body, such as the septum (the partition between the nostrils), the ear, or the rib. These grafts are used to strengthen and reshape different parts of the nose.

Septal Grafts:

The septum is often the first choice for cartilage grafting in structural rhinoplasty. This cartilage is firm yet flexible, making it ideal for providing support to weakened areas of the nose. It can be used to straighten the nose, correct breathing issues, or provide structure to the nasal tip.

Ear Cartilage Grafts:

If septal cartilage is insufficient, ear cartilage may be harvested. This softer cartilage is typically used for aesthetic improvements, such as refining the nasal tip or adding subtle support to the bridge.

Rib Cartilage Grafts:

In cases where a significant amount of cartilage is needed, rib cartilage may be used. This provides a large supply of sturdy cartilage, making it an excellent choice for major reconstructive work or revision rhinoplasty. Rib grafts are particularly useful for patients undergoing secondary rhinoplasty or those with severe nasal collapse.

Dorsal Hump Preservation

In many cases, patients seek rhinoplasty to reduce or refine the dorsal hump (the bump on the bridge of the nose). In structural rhinoplasty, rather than simply removing the hump, the surgeon may preserve the existing dorsal structure while making necessary adjustments.

Dorsal Preservation Techniques:

Instead of removing bone or cartilage from the dorsal hump, the surgeon repositions and reshapes the tissue. This ensures a smooth, natural contour and maintains the structural integrity of the nose. This method reduces the risk of collapse and offers a more stable and long-lasting result.

Tip Refinement with Cartilage Grafts

Refining the nasal tip is a common goal in rhinoplasty. In structural rhinoplasty, tip refinement is achieved through the precise placement of cartilage grafts to create a more defined, balanced appearance without compromising the structural support of the nose.

Lateral Crural Strut Grafts:

The lateral crura are parts of the lower cartilage that shape the nasal tip. Strut grafts placed in this area can lift and define the tip, improving projection while ensuring that the nasal tip maintains its strength and shape over time.

Columellar Strut Grafts:

A columellar strut is a graft placed between the two nasal tip cartilages to support and shape the tip. This technique enhances tip definition, refines the nasal profile, and ensures that the nasal tip remains in its intended position post-surgery.

Septoplasty for Functional Improvement

Many patients undergo rhinoplasty not only for cosmetic reasons but also to improve breathing function. Structural rhinoplasty often incorporates septoplasty, a procedure that straightens a deviated septum. A crooked septum can cause breathing difficulties, and correcting it can enhance both the aesthetic outcome and functionality of the nose.

Septoplasty Techniques:

The surgeon removes or repositions parts of the septal cartilage to straighten the nasal passage. This improves airflow and can significantly enhance the patient’s ability to breathe. Septoplasty is often performed in conjunction with other structural rhinoplasty techniques to ensure a comprehensive improvement.

Osteotomies: Reshaping the Nasal Bones

Osteotomies are controlled cuts made in the nasal bones to reshape or reposition them. In structural rhinoplasty, osteotomies are often used to narrow a wide nose or correct crooked nasal bones.

Internal and External Osteotomies:

Internal osteotomies involve cuts made inside the nose to reposition the bones without creating external scars. External osteotomies may be used for more complex cases where precise repositioning of the bones is needed. These techniques allow for a more refined appearance and contribute to the overall stability of the nasal structure.

Alar Base Reduction for Nostril Refinement

For patients with wide or flared nostrils, alar base reduction may be used as part of structural rhinoplasty. This technique involves removing a small wedge of tissue at the base of the nostrils to reduce their width and create a more harmonious appearance with the rest of the nose.

Maintaining Structural Integrity:

While reducing the width of the nostrils, it’s essential to maintain the natural strength and support of the nasal base. Careful technique ensures that the nostrils remain symmetrical and functional after the procedure.

Post-Surgical Stability

One of the key advantages of structural rhinoplasty is the long-term stability it offers. By reinforcing and supporting the nasal framework, the risk of post-surgical complications like nasal collapse or breathing issues is significantly reduced. This makes structural rhinoplasty an ideal option for patients seeking both cosmetic enhancement and functional improvement.

Conclusion

Structural rhinoplasty is an advanced surgical technique that focuses on preserving and strengthening the nasal framework to achieve both aesthetic beauty and long-term functionality. By utilizing grafts, reshaping cartilage, and employing precise techniques like septoplasty and osteotomies, surgeons at VIVE Plastic Surgery create results that look natural and stand the test of time. Whether you’re seeking rhinoplasty for cosmetic reasons, functional improvement, or both, structural rhinoplasty offers a comprehensive approach to achieving your desired outcome. Schedule a consultation today to learn more about how these advanced techniques can enhance your nasal structure.