What It Is
Alar batten grafts are cartilage grafts used in rhinoplasty to support the alar sidewalls (the outer edges of the nostrils) and prevent nasal valve collapse. These grafts help maintain airway patency, improve breathing, and correct deformities caused by previous surgery, trauma, or congenital weakness.
Why It’s Done
Alar batten grafts are performed to:
- Treat nasal valve collapse causing breathing difficulties
- Correct pinched or weak alar cartilages
- Enhance the structural stability of the nose in revision rhinoplasty
They are suitable for patients experiencing both functional and aesthetic nasal issues, particularly those with narrow nostrils or airflow obstruction.
Alternatives
Alternatives include nonsurgical nasal dilators, spreader flap techniques, or other structural grafts to improve airflow. However, nonsurgical methods only offer temporary relief and cannot provide long-term structural correction.
Preparation
Patients undergo a detailed nasal examination, imaging if necessary, and evaluation of nasal airflow. Preoperative instructions include stopping blood-thinning medications, avoiding smoking, and completing routine lab tests. Fasting is required if general anesthesia is planned.
How It’s Done
Performed under general or local anesthesia with sedation, cartilage is harvested from the septum, ear, or rib and shaped to fit the alar sidewalls. The graft is then sutured to strengthen the alar cartilage, widen the nasal valve, and restore symmetry. The procedure typically lasts 1–2 hours, often as an outpatient surgery.
Recovery
Recovery involves mild swelling and bruising, managed with cold compresses and pain medication. Internal nasal splints or external supports may be used temporarily. Patients should avoid trauma, strenuous activity, and nose blowing for a few weeks. Follow-up visits ensure proper healing and graft stability.
Possible Complications
Potential risks include infection, bleeding, graft visibility, asymmetry, and persistent nasal obstruction. Most complications are rare and manageable with prompt medical care.
Treatment Options in Korea
Korea is a leading destination for alar batten grafts due to:
- Experienced plastic surgeons specializing in functional and cosmetic rhinoplasty
- Advanced surgical techniques using precise cartilage grafting
- Cutting-edge medical technology for safe and effective outcomes
- Cost-effective treatment compared to Western countries
- Comprehensive international patient services, including translation support and personalized care
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Here’s the detailed article for 15. Lateral Crural Strut Graft in Korea:
What It Is
A lateral crural strut graft is a specialized cartilage graft used in rhinoplasty to reinforce the lateral crura, the outer portions of the lower lateral nasal cartilages. This procedure stabilizes the tip of the nose, improves its projection, and prevents collapse of the nostrils, particularly during breathing.
Why It’s Done
Patients undergo this procedure to:
- Correct weak or asymmetrical lateral crura
- Prevent alar collapse and improve nasal airflow
- Enhance tip definition and support in primary or revision rhinoplasty
It is often chosen by patients with both cosmetic and functional nasal concerns, including post-traumatic deformities or previous unsuccessful surgeries.
Alternatives
Alternatives include spreader grafts, nonsurgical nasal dilators, or septal cartilage repositioning. However, these methods may not offer the same structural reinforcement or long-term stability as a lateral crural strut graft.
Preparation
Preoperative assessment includes a thorough nasal examination, imaging if necessary, and airway evaluation. Patients may need to stop blood-thinning medications and avoid smoking before surgery. Standard lab tests and fasting are required if general anesthesia is used.
How It’s Done
The procedure is performed under general anesthesia. Cartilage is harvested from the septum, ear, or rib, shaped into a supportive graft, and sutured alongside the lateral crura. This reinforces the nasal tip and maintains proper shape and function. Surgery usually lasts 1–2 hours and can be outpatient depending on complexity.
Recovery
Postoperative care includes managing mild swelling, bruising, and discomfort. Nasal splints may be used for support. Patients should avoid strenuous activity, trauma to the nose, and nose blowing for several weeks. Follow-up visits monitor healing and graft stability.
Possible Complications
Risks include infection, bleeding, graft visibility, tip asymmetry, or persistent breathing issues. Most complications are rare and manageable with proper medical attention.
Treatment Options in Korea
Korea offers high-quality treatment for lateral crural strut grafts due to:
- Skilled surgeons experienced in both functional and aesthetic rhinoplasty
- Advanced grafting techniques using precise cartilage placement
- State-of-the-art surgical technology ensuring safety and efficiency
- Cost-effective options for international patients
- Dedicated support services for overseas patients, including translation and travel assistance
