Background: In dorsal augmentation, costal cartilage can be used in a number of different ways: monobloc, fascia wrapped, or glued diced cartilage grafting (GDCG). The authors developed a mold to make the use of GDCG more convenient. This report describes their experience with GDCG using a novel mold for dorsal augmentation.
Methods: The study involved 80 patients who underwent dorsal augmentation with the molded GDCG. Facial photographs and medical records were reviewed to assess patient satisfaction and postoperative complications. For the 23 patients who had three-dimensional scanned imaging, dorsal widths and dorsal heights at the radix and rhinion levels were measured to investigate changes in the implants over time. Resorption of the graft was assessed comparing the 3-month postoperative photograph with the latest photograph taken at the last follow-up (at least 1 year after the surgery). Serial changes of the dorsum were assessed with three-dimensional scanned images.
Results: A total of 66 patients (82.5 percent) were satisfied with their surgical outcomes. Complications were encountered in 19 patients (23.8 percent) and eight revision procedures (10 percent) were performed. One patient underwent revision surgery because of resorption of the GDCG. Analysis using a three-dimensional scanning device showed a significant increment of the dorsal height ( p < 0.05) without dorsal widening when comparing preoperative with 1-year postoperative follow-up data. There were no significant reductions in dorsal height between postoperative 3 months and 1 year.
Conclusion: The use of a novel mold for shaping glued diced cartilage appears to be a useful technique for dorsal augmentation in rhinoplasty.
Clinical question/level of evidence: Therapeutic, IV.
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