Rhinoplasty Dissection Planes (Subcutaneous, Sub-SMAS, Supra-perichondral, and Sub-perichondral) and Soft Tissues Management

Abstract

Rhinoplasty as an operation is akin to a game of chess, where every maneuver will influence the eventual outcome. Undoubtedly, more than one approach to the nasal soft tissues envelop can produce beautiful and safe results as will be described in the paper namely, the subcutaneous, sub-superficial musculoaponeurotic system, supra- and sub-perichondral planes. For different justifiable reasons surgeons have their preferences, regarding dissection planes on the tip, middle and upper thirds, and regarding the manipulation of the soft tissue layers and nasal ligaments. The concept of the nasal layers and the presence of relevant ligamentous structures and how to restore them in an anatomical fashion, will help to understand the logic behind various approaches.