Septal Cartilage/Ethmoid Bone Composite Graft: A New and Improved Method for the Correction Underdeveloped Nasal Septum in Patients with Short Noses

Background Septal extension grafts are an effective means of extending nasal length in patients with a short nose. However, such grafts can be challenging in patients who only have small quantities of weak septal cartilage, such as some East Asian patients. We developed a rhinoplasty technique using ethmoid bone to create a cartilage-bone complex to overcome this issue, allowing adequate nasal lengthening. Methods Sixty-four women with short noses and inadequate septal cartilage determined by preoperative computed tomography underwent septal extension grafting with a cartilage-bone complex between January 2009 and December 2014. Septal cartilage and ethmoid bone were harvested during open rhinoplasty and secured to the septal cartilage. Results Most patients were in their twenties or thirties. All patients underwent septal extension grafting using a cartilage-bone complex and dorsal augmentation with silicone implants. Short nasal length, decreased nasolabial angle and increased nostril show, were rectified. There was no recurrence during a mean follow-up period of 12.3 months, although one patient (1.5%) requested revision surgery. Conclusion Septal extension grafting with a cartilagebone complex can be used to correct a short nose, especially in Asians who have relatively small amounts of septal cartilage. The ethmoid bone augments the inadequate septum and provides structural support.