Use of Lateral Crural Strut Grafts for Correction of Alar Retraction

Introduction: Lateral crural strut grafts are versatile cartilage grafts that provide improved lateral wall support and can be used to correct post-rhinoplasty deformities such as alar retraction. Objective and Hypothesis: The objective of this paper is to review the indications and techniques used for lateral crural strut grafts and lateral crural extension grafts for treating alar retraction. Study Design: Description of surgeon's technique and case examples for use of lateral crural strut grafts and lateral crural extension grafts for managing alar retraction. Methods: Techniques demonstrated through intraoperative photography, case examples, and videos. Results: Patient outcomes as evaluated in previously published clinical experience with lateral crural strut grafts and lateral crural extension grafts. Conclusion: Lateral crural strut grafts and lateral crural extension grafts provide excellent lateral wall support and are critical to the correction of alar retraction in secondary rhinoplasty.