Primary Correction of the Unilateral Cleft Lip Nasal Deformity: Achieving the Excellence

Unilateral cleft lip nasal deformity is characterized by prominent asymmetry resulting from distorted and displaced structures. Primary correction of the nasal deformity at the same time of lip repair has gained popularity, aiming at early restoration of the symmetry by lifting the alar cartilage and lengthening the columella on the cleft side. Postoperative relapse is a frequent finding due to the elasticity of the deformed alar cartilage. A variety of strategies have been proposed to treat this type of condition, including preoperative nasoalveolar molding, overcorrection of the nostril and alar cartilage, Tajima method of rhinoplasty, and postoperative nasal splinting. The results have been promising. Long-term assessments need to be performed to determine the final outcomes. (Chang Gung Med J 2006;29:262-7) Key words: primary nasal correction, unilateral cleft lip and palate, nasal deformity. Deformity of the unilateral cleft lip nose Unilateral cleft lip and palate occurs when themedial nasal process and maxillary process fail to fuse normally during the 4th to 8th week of devel-opment, and failure of subsequent elevation an