Dysfunction of the external nasal valve affects both the form and function of the
nose. Successful treatment of these problems is dependent on proper analysis and diagnosis
of the aberrant anatomy. Cephalic malpositioning of the lateral crura has been described
for nearly 30 years. Repositioning of the lateral crura in a more caudal orientation
with lateral crural strut grafts will correct aesthetic abnormalities and reinforce
the external nasal valve. Sagittal malpositioning has been more recently described
and also has deleterious effects on both the shape of the nasal tip and breathing.
Reorienting the short axis of the lateral crus is another powerful tool for the rhinoplasty
surgeon to correct the weak and narrow external nasal valve.
Keywords
rhinoplasty - external nasal valve - cephalically malpositioned lateral crura - sagittally
malpositioned lateral crura - nasal obstruction
