Open rhinoplasty without transcolumellar incision.

Abstract

Traditional open rhinoplasty leaves a scar on the columella. No one can say that this scar is invisible. It is less noticeable in Caucasian patients but it is a problem in non-Caucasian patients like in our country. To avoid such a scar and still obtain a wide exposure of the nasal framework, the bilateral paramarginal incisions close to the columella were extended down to the nasal floors. The lower lateral cartilages forming the nasal tip could then be delivered out through one of the nostrils. An exposure similar to the traditional open rhinoplasty was then achieved. The technique has been used in 23 patients with satisfactory results. In conclusion, the open rhinoplasty without transcolumellar incision can replace the traditional transcolumellar open rhinoplasty technique in selected patients.