ALAR BASE LINING GRAFT (ABLG): A NEW TECHNIQUE TO PREVENT AND CORRECT ALAR RETRACTION IN PRIMARY AND SECONDARY RHINOPLASTY

Plast Reconstr Surg. 2024 Feb 12. doi: 10.1097/PRS.0000000000011353. Online ahead of print.

Abstract

Introduction: rhinoplasty traditionally represents a difficult challenge for plastic surgeons. The aim of this article is to describe our personal new graft ABLG (Alar base lining graft) in augmentation rhinoplasty, to treat and prevent alar retraction.

Materials and methods: in this study, we retrospectively reviewed patients treated with ABLG at our institution between July 2019 and April 2022. We described our personal technique and graft. At a minimum follow-up time of one year, post-operative pictures were taken, and patients were reassessed, evaluating aspects such as global symmetry, shape and contour of the nose, Finally, patients' satisfaction was investigated according to ROE questionnaire.

Results: a total of 42 patients were included in the study. They reported a significant satisfactory aesthetic result in nasal image, as the mean postoperative ROE score shows. The alar contracture in secondary rhinoplasty was successfully treated. None of the grafts was extruded or collapsed. Wounds healed without reported major infection.

Conclusion: this study has demonstrated that ABLG is a safe graft that contributes to improved functional and aesthetic outcomes, has a high patient satisfaction rate, and a low rate of post- operative complication.