Correction of Alar Base Retraction by Levator Labii Alaeque Nasi Muscle Dissection and Alar Rim Grafting: A Clinical Prospective Study

Abstract

Alar base retraction may result in disharmony of nose structures. Although correction of this retraction may play an important role in patient satisfaction, there is a limited number of studies on alar base retraction correction. The aim of this study was to manage alar base retraction with minimal undesirable results. Six patients underwent correction of alar base retraction using dissection of the levator labii alaque nasi muscle with or sometimes without alar rim grafting. Assessment of the defect was done using preoperative and postoperative frontal view photographs of each patient. Comparing the preoperative and postoperative photographs shows a significant improvement in the nasal base asymmetry, and all six patients have aesthetically satisfying results after a 12-month follow-up period. In conclusion, nasal base retraction is a well-known deformity that has been an area of focus in the rhinoplasty field and management of this defect has very promising results.