Controlling Supratip Break and Tip Rotation and Projection with Preservation of the Pitanguy Ligament.

SUMMARY

In this article, the author describes a new closed rhinoplasty technique in which the Pitanguy ligament was protected, ultimately resulting in better supratip break, tip projection, and tip rotation. Based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria, the records of 156 patients who underwent surgery with this "Pitanguy ligament protection and suturing" technique were evaluated retrospectively. In this novel technique, the Pitanguy ligament was dissected from the proximal and distal points with scissors in the lower third, and it was left intact. There was no need for revision operations in any patient. Twelve months after surgery, the Rhinoplasty Outcome Evaluation scores ranged between 80 and 100 points. The median score was 86.5 points. Patient satisfaction was excellent in 90% of the included cases. Protection of the Pitanguy ligament and attachment of this ligament to the nasal tip create better tip definition and generate several aesthetic and functional advantages.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic, IV.