Date: June 23, 2002
Event: 5th Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Symposium at Yonsei University Severance Hospital (Invited Speaker)
Title: Corrective Rhinoplasty – “Three Types of Lateral Osteotomy”

Background

A balanced and aesthetically pleasing nose typically exhibits symmetry, proportionate ratios, and consistent angles. In cases of congenital or traumatic nasal deformities, deviated septal cartilage, or an inherently wide nasal framework, simple height adjustments or camouflage techniques have significant limitations. Proper correction often requires addressing the underlying bony and cartilaginous structures.

Methods and Materials

To address the issue of a wide nasal bone, the team classified cases based on absolute criteria (nasal bone width is equal to or wider than the alar base) and relative criteria (alar base width is about 80–100% of the nasal bone width). For nasal bones that were deformed, an asymmetric osteotomy was performed. Cartilage deformities were corrected with symmetrical or asymmetrical spreader grafts, and anterior septal deviations were managed using a swing-door operation combined with batten grafts.

Results

• Improved Nasal Contour: Correcting the fundamental bony structure resulted in an overall improvement in nasal shape.
• Tip Alignment: Straightening the anterior septal cartilage resolved tip asymmetry.
• Refined Nasal Width: Excessively wide nasal bones were narrowed to achieve better proportion and a more refined appearance.
• Effective Spreader Grafts: Placing spreader grafts proved highly effective in correcting crooked or asymmetric dorsal septal structures.

By systematically addressing each element—bony framework, cartilage deviation, and nasal tip position—this approach provided a comprehensive solution for patients with complex nasal deformities.