Reducing the Cleft Nose Deformity in Bilateral Cleft Lip Repair

Repair of a bilateral cleft lip and nose deformity remains a challenge. The nose remains the main persisting stigma for patients, deserving an equal amount of attention as the lip during the repair. We share 3 technical principles to help achieve the optimal nasolabial result and minimize cleft nose deformity after bilateral cleft lip repair. Firstly, cephalad rotation of C-flaps from the prolabium is used to define the nasolabial angle. Secondly, the nasal base and contour is set before the lip repair, as the vectors and tension of nasal repair differ from the vector and tension of the orbicularis oris muscle closure. Thirdly, different suspension and shaping stitches are used to define alar shape and position after lower lateral cartilage release, avoiding additional scars.