Augmentation Rhinoplasty Combined with Tip Plasty Using AlloDerm(R)

ABSTRACT

Because the Korean nose has a flat dorsum and depressed tip, tip projection procedure has frequently been performed as an ancillary procedure of dorsal augmentation. Although various materials have been used for tip plasty, an ideal technique has not yet been described. The authors performed classic augmentation rhinoplasty using a silicone implant to correct flat dorsum. Alloderm(R)(Life Cell Corporation, the Woodlands, Texas), acellular human dermis, was used for soft and smooth projection of the nasal tip. From January of 2000 to August of 2003, 20 patients underwent this procedure in Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. The patients were followed up for 2 to 26 months. Postoperative course was uneventful. Although partial graft resorption was noted in 3 patients, long-term follow-up showed good results. Alloderm(R) usage for tip plasty allows natural contour of the nasal tip, decreases donor site morbidity, and obviates time consuming procedures for graft harvesting. In conclusion, Alloderm(R) graft could be an appropriate alternative in tip projection procedure.