The Anchor Graft: A Novel Technique in Rhinoplasty

We review our use of a modified tip graft that we termed the anchor graft for the correction of nasal tip deformities. This modified infratip shield graft was used to improve alar rim positioning, while simultaneously improving tip projection and/or augmenting infratip fullness. Standardized preoperative and postoperative photographs were taken of each patient. Aesthetic appearance was subjectively judged by the physician and a patient survey. Complications were tabulated. Sixteen patients met the requirements for inclusion in our study. Eleven patients received follow-up for more than 1 year. All patients demonstrated good aesthetic improvement, with only minor complications. No extrusion of the graft was noted. All patients reported a natural-appearing and normal-feeling nose after a minimum follow-up of 6 months. Revision surgery was elected in 4 patients, 2 of whom initially presented as revision cases. The anchor graft is a new technique to aid in cosmetic modification of the nasal tip as well as to improve the functional and aesthetic appearance of the nasal ala and external nasal valve.