Achieving a Strong and Straight Septal Extension Graft: A Novel Four-step Surgical Approach in Rhinoplasty

Abstract

Background: Septal extension grafts allow the precise elongation of the nasal septum to attain facial harmony and optimize aesthetic outcomes. In this context, septal surgery requires meticulous design to address both functional and aesthetic goals. Traditional septoplasty techniques often overlook aesthetic considerations and postoperative nasal structural stability, resulting in unresolved or recurrent deviations, nose tip drooping, and obstruction recurrences. Despite advancements in surgical techniques, achieving simultaneous septal alignment and long-term stability remains a significant challenge. Methods: This study introduces a systematic 4-step technique. The procedure encompasses caudal septum liberation, placement of the septum extension cartilage graft, positioning of an ethmoidal bone graft, and redefinition through an intermediate cartilage. Results: A retrospective analysis of outcomes involving 753 patients was conducted with a minimum follow-up of 6 months. During follow-up visits, 1.73% of cases exhibited residual columellar asymmetry, and 0.66% showed tip asymmetries. The infection rate was 0.40%, with no cases of tip drop identified. The overall satisfaction rating on the Rhinoplasty Outcomes Evaluation questionnaire at 12 months postoperative was 9.3. Conclusions: The technique provides a systematic approach to integrate functional and aesthetic objectives, emphasizing septal stability and alignment while concurrently addressing tip projection and stability. The study provides comprehensive insights into the principles, methodology, and advantages of this rhinoplasty technique. The outcomes underscore the efficacy of the technique, presenting a reliable and long-term stable solution.