Rhinoplasty for the Cleft Lip and Palate Patient

Septorhinoplasties in cleft patients are challenging procedures to perform for even the most experienced surgeon. Unilateral cleft rhinoplasties present a unique challenge given that the tissue bed has had previous manipulation and scarring is found around the tissue matrix, making it typically necessary to place several sturdy cartilaginous grafts to provide structural support. Rib graft provides an abundance of cartilage that can be used for multiple areas. The ability to manipulate and adjust the thickness of the cartilage strut allows for improved integrity of the graft to resist deformation and warping from the formant scar tissue.