Dorsal Reduction and Spreader Flaps

Dorsal reduction (humpectomy) is a simple maneuver in principle, yet it commonly results in irregularities and general inaccuracies, along with occasional internal valve compromise. Traditionally, spreader grafts have been applied to reconstruct an internal valve disrupted during dorsal reduction. Imbricating the dissected ends of the upper lateral cartilages at their interface with the septum (spreader flaps) allows the surgeon to use this tissue, which would otherwise be discarded, to reconstruct the internal valve and design an aesthetically pleasing nasal line. The application of a spreader flap is not only an easily reproducible technique to restore middle vault structure but allows for precise incremental control when performed at the time of humpectomy. To that end, the authors provide a detailed description of their internal valve reconstruction technique, which has been honed over the past 15 years.