Intermediate strip rhinoplasty

Intermediate strip rhinoplasty is a technique within the preservation rhinoplasty framework that focuses on maintaining the structural integrity of the nasal dorsum while making precise modifications to achieve the desired aesthetic outcomes. This approach involves preserving an intermediate strip of cartilage and bone in the nasal dorsum, aiming to reduce the dorsal hump and reshape the nose while maintaining natural contours and structural support.

Key Principles of Intermediate Strip Rhinoplasty:

1. Conservation of Nasal Structures:
   • The technique emphasises preserving an intermediate strip of the nasal dorsum, ensuring that the central portion of cartilage and bone remains intact.
2. Dorsal Hump Reduction:
   • It involves reducing the dorsal hump by removing or reshaping the areas surrounding the preserved intermediate strip.
3. Natural Contours and Lines:
   • By maintaining the intermediate strip, the natural dorsal aesthetic lines are preserved, resulting in a more harmonious and natural appearance.

Procedure of Intermediate Strip Rhinoplasty:

1. Preoperative Planning and Marking:
   • Detailed preoperative planning is essential. The surgeon marks the areas of the dorsal hump to be addressed while identifying the intermediate strip to be preserved.
2. Subperichondrial and Subperiosteal Dissection:
   • Dissection is performed beneath the perichondrium (covering the cartilage) and periosteum (covering the bone) to minimise tissue disruption and preserve the blood supply to the nasal structures.
3. Resection of Surrounding Areas:
   • The surgeon carefully removes or reshapes the cartilage and bone around the intermediate strip. This can involve removing small amounts of tissue or making controlled fractures to lower the nasal bridge.
4. Repositioning and Refinement:
   • The nasal bones and cartilage are repositioned as needed to achieve a smooth and natural contour. Any necessary refinements are made to ensure the desired aesthetic result.

Advantages of Intermediate Strip Rhinoplasty:

1. Natural Results:
   • Preserving the intermediate strip helps maintain the natural dorsal lines and contours, leading to a more natural and harmonious nasal appearance.
2. Functional Integrity:
   • The technique maintains the structural support of the nose, reducing the risk of functional issues such as breathing difficulties post-surgery.
3. Less Invasive:
   • By preserving more of the natural nasal structures, the procedure is less invasive, leading to reduced swelling, bruising, and a quicker recovery period.
4. Stability and Longevity:
   • Maintaining an intermediate strip of cartilage and bone provides ongoing support for the nasal structure, contributing to the stability and longevity of the surgical results.

Ideal Candidates for Intermediate Strip Rhinoplasty:

• Patients with a Moderate Dorsal Hump:
  • Individuals with a moderate dorsal hump who seek reduction while preserving the natural contour of their nose are ideal candidates.
• Those Seeking Natural-Looking Results:
  • Patients who prefer a conservative approach that maintains the natural aesthetics of their nose will benefit from this technique.
• Patients with Good Nasal Structure:
  • Ideal candidates typically have sufficient nasal structural support, allowing for effective reshaping without extensive removal of cartilage and bone.

Intermediate strip rhinoplasty is a refined preservation technique focusing on maintaining the natural anatomy and aesthetics of the nose while achieving the desired reduction in dorsal height. This approach leads to aesthetically pleasing and functionally stable outcomes, combining effective hump reduction with the preservation of natural nasal structures.