Current Practices in Dorsal Augmentation Rhinoplasty

Background: Dorsal augmentation rhinoplasty addresses the aesthetic and functional impairments caused by a deficient nasal dorsum. Augmentation rhinoplasty can be performed using a variety of different surgical techniques and grafting materials that all have distinct advantages and disadvantages. Methods: Grafting materials have unique characteristics, uses, and safety profiles. A detailed overview of various grafting materials and their uses, risks, and benefits is provided. Results: Autologous grafting materials include septal cartilage, auricular cartilage, and costal cartilage. These donor sites can provide various amounts of en bloc or diced cartilage. Alternatively, bone may be used when strong structural stability is required, and soft tissue may be used to fill mild to moderate defects. Homologous grafts (e.g., irradiated and nonirradiated rib) and acellular dermal matrices are alternatives to autologous graft with many similar advantages and no need for an additional surgical site. Lastly, alloplastic implants may be successfully used for dorsal augmentation if both patient and surgeon understand their associated risks. Conclusion: To perform successful dorsal augmentation, surgeons should be familiar with the wide variety of operative approaches and augmentation materials that are currently available and understand their risks, benefits, and uses.