The Lateral Crus Rotation Technique (Flying Wings) in the Correction of the Supratip Saddle Nose Deformity

Abstract

Supratip saddle nose usually occurs by a trauma or by excessive resection of the septal cartilage. The techniques to correct saddle nose deformity include the use of free cartilage transplants, homografts, xenografts and alloplastic materials. In this study a procedure of rotating a part of the lateral crura of the alar cartilages (flying wings) into supratip saddle nose is described and the results of 16 patients with a minimum follow-up of 3 months are discussed. A total number of 14 (87.5%) patients have satisfactory corrections of the supratip saddle nose deformity. Advantage of the technique is the use of autogenous, local cartilage, which is easily accessible and expandable. Rotating the lateral crus gives a strong and reliable supratip support. Additionally, upward traction effect of the technique can be used in some patients who have drooping nasal tip. Patients with short nasal bone and short lateral crus, and patients with previously performed rhinoplasty are the relative contraindications of the flying wings technique. External approach via midcolumellar incision makes possible direct vision, with a wide exposure of both lateral crus and the septum. The flying wings technique can be incorporated easily into a partial or complete rhinoplasty and secondary septoplasty.

Keywords

• supratip saddle nose
• flying wing
• lateral crus
• external approach.