Comparison of scar outcomes of alar base and columella using irradiated polyglactin 911: a single-blind study

Aim: The formation of scars on the face after open septorhinoplasty (SRP) with alar base reduction may disturb the patient due to cosmetic concerns. This study aimed to compare scar outcomes of the columella and alar base in patients undergoing SRP. Material and Method: Twenty-seven patients who underwent alar base reduction during primary open SRP were divided into two groups according to the intervened area as the Columella (CLM) group (n=27) and the Alar Base (AB) group (n=27). Irradiated polyglactin 911 was used in all patients. The modified Stony Brook Scar Evaluation Scale (SBSES) and a questionnaire form were used to measure scar outcomes and patient satisfaction. Columellar and alar base scar outcomes were compared. Results: Patient satisfaction and scar outcomes were better in the CLM group. There was no significant difference, except for the first month total SBSES scores, between the CLM and AB groups. There was no significant difference in patient questionnaire scores between groups. In the early period, there were more signs of inflammation in the alar base than in the columella, without statistical significance. Conclusion: Patient satisfaction and scar outcomes in the columellar area were favorable. Scar outcome on the alar base was statistically significantly worse than columella in the early period. There was no statistically significant difference between both areas in the long-term. Irradiated rapid vicryl can be used for closure of the alar base and columella, considering its advantages and disadvantages, in patients undergoing open septorhinoplasty with alar base reduction.