Question:
What is a lateral strut graft for rhinoplasty and when is it used?
Answer:
Your question is a very specific one. A lateral crural strut graft is a graft of cartilage that is generally harvested from the nasal septum during septo rhinoplasty. The graft is placed in the area of the nasal ala (nostril cartilages) to help support the lateral crura of the lower lateral cartilages. More specifically, the lateral crural strut grafts are placed in the deep surface of the lateral crura in order to reposition the lateral crura for a number of reasons. These grafts are used in rhinoplasty to support the lateral crura, to correct a pinched nasal tip, to help reduce a boxy nasal tip, and to help rotate the nasal tip. I have found the lateral crural strut grafts to be helpful in a handful of revision rhinoplasty cases but, have found other techniques to be more beneficial to the final outcome of the rhinoplasty.
Posted by Dr. Philip Schoenfeld