Primary Unilateral Cleft Lip-Nose Repair

Abstract

The fundamental aim of the repair of cleft lip-nose deformity lies in the release of the abnormally attached and displaced anatomical structures, followed by meticulous realignment. The release must be sufficient to allow a tension-free closure for an optimal healing process. The closer and the more aligned these anatomical structures are, the less surgical release is necessary. This results in less scarring, and potentially more favorable growth is expected. Finally, a balanced lip and a symmetrically oriented alar base and lower lateral cartilage with normal tip projection must be achieved. There should be no vertical discrepancy between the affected and normal sides of the central philtral element. Thus, the normal anatomy should be recreated in four dimensions. The fourth one is the normal function.