Auricular autologous cartilage in redo rhinoseptoplasty

Objective. To analyze techniques and indications for redo rhinoseptoplasty with auricular autologous cartilage. Material and methods. The authors analyzed 39 articles containing retrospective and prospective data on outcomes, descriptions and complications of autologous cartilage in nasal tip reconstruction. Results. The main outcome measures were indications for autologous cartilage and its efficacy via analysis of improving nasal tip shape, projection and contours, as well as structure preservation. In details, clinical studies were based on assessment by surgeons (excellent, good, fair, poor and unsatisfactory) and various factors such as asymmetry, deformities, skin thickness, itching and pain. The secondary outcome measure was patient satisfaction based on surveys and photo comparisons. Surveys were designed to report patient satisfaction with appearance of nose, protruding tip, softness and volumetric contours, willingness to undergo redo surgery and/or recommend treatment to friends, sufficient information on risks and complications. Patients gave scores from 1 to 6: excellent (1); very good (2); good (3); fair (4); poor (5); and very poor (6). In addition, a lower complication rate compared to other grafts (bone, alloplastic and allogeneic) was considered. Septal cartilage, auricular bowl cartilage and rib cartilage are the main autografts for reconstruction or remodeling of nasal tip. Conclusion. Auricular autologous cartilage is preferable for reinforcement and/or enlargement of nasal tip projection, effective support and reconstruction of nasal tip.