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Cleft rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure used to correct nasal tip asymmetries and septal deviations resulting from a cleft lip and a cleft palate. Dr. James P. Bradley has the experience and skill needed to perform effective cleft rhinoplasty for New York patients.
This procedure can be performed at three stages of life, each with tailored techniques:
During cleft lip repair: At 3 months old
At school age: Between 5–8 years old
At skeletal maturity: Between 15–18 years old
What is a Cleft Lip? What is a Cleft Palate?
A cleft lip and a cleft palate are congenital conditions in which the tissues that the lip and palate are composed of dodo not completely join together before the patient’s birth. As a result, a gap is formed in the upper lip. This gap can vary in size. It can either be a thin slit or a wide divide that can extend up to the patient’s nose.
A cleft lip and palate can result in many types of nasal deformities. These can be aesthetic and/or functional in nature, affecting a patient’s overall quality of life.
What is Cleft Rhinoplasty Surgery?
Cleft rhinoplasty addresses nasal deformities caused by cleft lip and palate.
- For unilateral cleft lip deformities, the surgery improves nasal tip symmetry and breathing.
- For bilateral cleft lip deformities, it reduces nose width and enhances tip projection.
Dr. Bradley’s expertise ensures personalized care for patients seeking improved function and appearance through cleft rhinoplasty.
Cleft Rhinoplasty Surgery Objectives
- To improve breathing with the reconstruction of cartilage support. Breathing improvement may be noticed as relief from sleep apnea.
- To straighten the nose and provide a more appealing and balanced nasal shape that is specific for you.
Top Browlift State-of-the-Art Techniques
- Initial Cleft Nose Repair: Repositioning the “slumped” cartilages with a closed technique at the time of lip repair.
- Secondary Cleft Rhinoplasty (at school age): Improvement in nose tip projection and nasal symmetry using an open technique.
- Final Cleft Septorhinoplasty: Correction of septal deviation and fine-tuning the previous nose repairs.
Common Nasal Issues Addressed by Cleft Rhinoplasty
Cleft rhinoplasty is an effective solution for various nasal deformities associated with cleft lip and palate conditions. Common issues that can be addressed include:
- Nasal Tip Asymmetry: Correcting discrepancies in the nasal tip’s shape and position for a more balanced appearance.
- Septal Deviations: Realigning the nasal septum to enhance both aesthetics and breathing function.
- Breathing Difficulties: Addressing structural issues that impede airflow can alleviate challenges such as chronic nasal congestion and sleep apnea.
Cleft rhinoplasty plays a vital role in restoring confidence and improving the quality of life for individuals impacted by these conditions by focusing on both the cosmetic and functional aspects of nasal reconstruction.
Top Cleft Rhinoplasty State-of-the-Art Techniques
- Initial Cleft Nose Repair: Repositioning the “slumped” cartilages with a closed technique at the time of lip repair.
- Secondary Cleft Rhinoplasty (at school age): Improvement in nose tip projection and nasal symmetry using an open technique.
- Final Cleft Septorhinoplasty: Correction of septal deviation and fine-tuning the previous nose repairs.
Ideal Candidates for Cleft Rhinoplasty Surgery
The ideal candidates for cleft rhinoplasty are people who are generally healthy physically and mentally, do not smoke or are ready to give up smoking, and have set realistic expectations and goals for what can be accomplished following the procedure.
Plastic surgeons typically wait until the patient reaches 15 years of age to perform secondary cleft rhinoplasty. This is to limit the number of rhinoplasty procedures and achieve the best results.
If you have undergone nasal surgery recently, it is recommended that you wait a year from the time of that surgical procedure. This will give you enough time to allow the soft tissue and skin to unstiffen and recover fully from the procedure.
Your Consultation
For underage patients seeking initial cleft nose repair, Dr. Bradley requires the parent or guardian to provide details about their child’s medical history. Patients who want to undergo secondary cleft rhinoplasty must discuss any previous surgeries and vitamins or medications they take, along with complete medical history details.
Things that will be discussed during the consultation will include the patient’s goals and expectations, different options for nasal deformity corrections, surgery preparation, and possible complications that might arise during or after the surgery. Dr. Bradley will also provide guidelines on proper care following the procedure.
The Cleft Rhinoplasty Surgery Procedure
General anesthesia is typically used during the procedure. A local anesthetic is also employed to minimize discomfort following the rhinoplasty. A majority of patients get their first cleft lip improvement and nasal correction procedure during the initial cleft nose repair.
A secondary cleft rhinoplasty’s purpose is to improve the projection of the nasal tip and improve nasal symmetry by employing the open rhinoplasty method. Dr. Bradley performs these enhancements by clearing the lower lateral cartilages, tunneling them, and readjusting them. After this procedure, the nose grows into a more symmetrical shape.
For final cleft septorhinoplasty, this procedure makes use of the open rhinoplasty method. The skin is detached from the bone and cartilage. Dr. Bradley might use grafts for the procedure – some cases may require the use of many graft materials to restructure the nose.
The nose will be closed with stitches. Soft splints may be positioned within the nose temporarily to provide support to the septum. Exterior splints are also utilized to reduce swelling and retain skin shape.
Cleft Rhinoplasty Surgery Recovery and Healing
For younger patients who have undergone cleft nose repair, the parent or guardian will be provided with advice by Dr. Bradley to help with a comfortable recovery for their child. A prescription for antibiotics and pain medication will be handed to the parents for their child’s use.
Patients who underwent secondary cleft rhinoplasty and final cleft septorhinoplasty require complete rest for several days to accelerate the healing process. Patients will also be provided with antibiotics and pain medication after the rhinoplasty. Common side effects of the procedures include bruising, pain, and swelling—these conditions will dwindle after a few days.
Dr. Bradley will provide patients with instructions on correct surgical site care. For instance, patients must avoid rigorous physical activity for several days. Patients are also advised not to shower and to instead take baths.
Cleft Rhinoplasty Surgery Cost
The cost of a cleft rhinoplasty procedure will depend on several factors. Factors that may influence the overall price of the rhinoplasty include the complexity and duration of the procedure, surgical fees, and the fee for the anesthesia used during the surgery.
Why Choose Dr. James P. Bradley for Cleft Rhinoplasty?
Dr. James P. Bradley integrates cutting-edge surgical techniques with a compassionate, patient-centered approach to care. With extensive experience in cleft surgery, he skillfully tailors each rhinoplasty procedure to address the unique needs of every patient, making sure that both aesthetic and functional objectives are achieved.
Cleft Rhinoplasty Surgery Frequently Asked Questions
Does a secondary cleft rhinoplasty have to be performed?
No, this is an optional procedure in most situations. It is aimed at providing the best appearance at a time when school socialization is occurring.
Why must septal surgery be delayed until the teenage years?
The septum is a center for face growth and should not be operated on until maturity. In addition, the deviation is not apparent until the teen years.
What age is appropriate for cleft rhinoplasty?
Cleft rhinoplasty can be performed at different stages: during initial repairs (around 3 months), at school age (5-8 years), and at skeletal maturity (15-18 years).
Will I need additional surgeries in the future?
While many patients experience satisfactory results after the initial procedure, some may benefit from secondary surgeries to refine results further.
How do I prepare for the procedure?
Dr. Bradley will provide specific pre-operative instructions, which may include avoiding certain medications and planning for post-operative care.
Can cleft rhinoplasty address breathing issues?
Yes, cleft rhinoplasty can improve breathing by correcting structural deformities and enhancing nasal airflow.
Schedule a Consultation
To arrange a consultation regarding cleft rhinoplasty in New York, contact the office of Dr. James P. Bradley and set up your appointment. Dr. Bradley will go over the details of the procedure, including cost, preparation, and the post-surgical recovery process.
