Poly Lactic-co-Glycolic Acid Absorbable Plate Graft for Secondary Rhinoplasty in Asian Patients with Unilateral Cleft Lip Nose Deformity

Introduction In secondary cleft lip and nasal deformity (CLND) correction, structural grafts are commonly used to control the nasal tip and restore the symmetry of the ala. However, the septal cartilage in Asians often weak and small. Biocompatible absorbable materials are alternatives to autologous grafts. This study assessed the surgical outcomes and complications of poly lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) plate grafts in secondary CLND correction. Methods This study was retrospectively analyzed for patients who underwent secondary rhinoplasty for unilateral CLND correction between March 2015 and November 2020. Using open rhinoplasty, the PLGA plate was grafted as a columellar strut. Clinical photographs taken at the initial (T0) and follow-up visits (T1: short-term, T2: long-term) were analyzed and anthropometric parameters, such as nostril height and width, dome height, and tip height, were measured. Results Twenty-four patients were included in this study. The mean T1 and T2 periods were 1.0 +/- 0.4 and 15.5 +/- 3.1 months, respectively. The nostril height ratio increased from 0.78 +/- 0.12 at T0 to 0.88 +/- 0.08 at T1 and 0.86 +/- 0.09 at T2 (p < 0.001; Relapse ratio -2.6 +/- 6.7%). The tip height ratio increased from 0.60 +/- 0.07 (T0) to 0.66 +/- 0.05 (T2) (Relapse ratio -3.7 +/- 3.0%). Conclusions The PLGA plate graft provided stable nasal tip projection and alar symmetry without major complications. It can be a good option for patients lacking available septal and concha cartilages or apprehensive of additional scarring.