The dual-plane diced cartilage concept for nasal augmentation in ethnic rhinoplasty.

Purpose: This study aimed to discuss and evaluate the results of a technique known as the dual-plane diced cartilage graft concept designed to improve dorsal nasal and radix augmentation in ethnic rhinoplasty cases. This involves the insertion of diced cartilage in both the sub-superficial musculoaponeurotic system and the subperiosteum.

Materials and method: A total of 54 patients underwent surgery between May 2021 and May 2023 were included in the study. These cases were all primary rhinoplasties, and both endonasal (n = 33) and open (n = 21) rhinoplasty techniques were used. The preferred graft was cartilage, specifically costal cartilage. Rectus fascia was used to wrap the diced cartilage grafts. Patients were monitored for possible complications at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months. The results were documented using photographs and evaluated by two blinded plastic surgeons.

Result: All patients were followed-up for an average period of 17.3 months. At the one-year evaluation conducted by the surgeons, one case was deemed unsatisfactory, one was an average, two were satisfactory, 24 were very satisfactory, and 26 were outstanding. Notably, no complications, such as graft resorption, infection, or skin circulation issues on the nasal dorsum, were observed in any of the cases.

Conclusion: In the current study, it is proposed that the dual-plan diced cartilage graft technique can be used to alleviate junctional irregularities, achieve a more uniform dorsal aesthetic contour, and enhance both augmentation outcomes and graft viability by enlarging the interfacing tissue area.

Clinical question/level of evidence: Therapeutic, IV.