Incision and Scar Analysis in Open (External) Rhinoplasty

Abstract

Open (external) rhinoplasty is becoming increasingly popular. Two of its disadvantages most frequently espoused are the difficulty in making the external incision atraumatically and the resulting scar. To diminish these concerns, different incision lines and methods of exposure have been proposed by various authors. These are reviewed along with our preferred technique. We reviewed 100 consecutive cases of open rhinoplasty, yielding 81 patients who underwent subjective and objective scar analysis. There was 1 subjective failure (1.2%), and 2 minor objective failures (2.5%). Recommendations are made to minimize difficulties in performing the open approach and to maximize scar cosmesis.

Closed-Open Rhinoplasty with Extended Lip Dissection: A New Concept and Classification of Rhinoplasty

“…Although it has been reported that the columellar scar is well accepted by most patients and rarely causes hypertrophic scarring, a recent study by Constantian revealed that columella-related deformities after rhinoplasty exceeded considerably all other patient complaints. [13][14][15] Non-Caucasian patients are particularly prone to undesirable scar development in this anatomical area. 16 In 1990, Guerrerosantos reported a technique of open rhinoplasty without a columellar incision.…”

Rhinoplasty and young’s operation in atrophic rhinitis

“…Adamson et al (1990) reviewed 100 consecutive external rhinoplasties and found only 2.5% minor complications related to columellar scar (5). During septoplasty mucoperichondrial tears are usually made at the junction of the cartilage with the premaxilla and maxillary crest.…”

Anatomic Basis of Notch Deformity in Open Rhinoplasty

“…14 Several recommendations are given to improve the columella scar. 15 The dissections performed on fresh cadavers helped clarify the anatomic relationship of the depressor septi nasi muscle at the columella level, which is found immediately under the skin and on either side of the media crura footplate, medial to the lower lateral cartilage and the septum.…”