Cleft rhinoplasty

The cleft nasal deformity associated with the primary cleft lip/nose for both unilateral and bilateral clefts represents a complex spectrum of deformity for the cleft reconstructive surgeon. The central location of the nose and lip makes them among the most notable facets of a person's appearance. In addition, there is a considerable functional airway component to the nose and nasopharynx that evolves throughout childhood. The spectrum of the cleft nasal deformity involves all tissue layers of the nose including the mucosal lining, osseo-cartilaginous vault, and external skin. The purpose of this chapter is to (a) define the anatomical differences in the cleft nose, (b) introduce diagnostic maneuvers to assess nasal functional compromise, (c) discuss timing of surgical intervention, and (d) provide a framework for definitive rhinoplasty at the culmination of facial growth.