Cleft Lip Rhinoplasty in China

“What Is Cleft Lip Rhinoplasty?”

Cleft lip is a congenital birth defect caused by insufficient tissue development during pregnancy, resulting in malformation of the lips and oral structure. It also affects surrounding muscles, cartilage, and bone, leading to overall facial asymmetry and nasal deformity.

Lip repair surgery is usually performed at a young age, but cleft lip rhinoplasty is done after the age of 18 once facial bones and structures are fully mature. Because cleft lip nasal deformity involves complex structural imbalance, reconstruction should only be planned after full facial growth is complete.

Nasal deformity related to cleft lip is one of the most challenging reconstructive rhinoplasty cases. It commonly causes nostril asymmetry, alar collapse, slanted columella, septal deviation, and overall unbalanced nasal structure requiring specialized reconstructive surgery.

Doctor’s Message

The key to successful cleft lip rhinoplasty is correcting slanted nasal cartilage and internal bone structure. Rib cartilage grafting is essential for severe cleft lip nasal reconstruction. Combined with ear cartilage refinement, it allows precise correction of alar collapse, nostril asymmetry, short nasal length, and undefined nasal tip.

Rib cartilage provides strong, durable structural support ideal for cleft lip deformities. It allows stable reconstruction, natural symmetry, and long-lasting results for patients with congenital cleft lip nasal issues.

Operation Information

• Surgery Time : Varies by condition
• Anesthesia Type : General Anesthesia
• Hospitalization : 1 Day
• Stitch Removal : 5-10 Days
• Recovery Time : Varies by individual case

7 Main Nasal Deformity Symptoms of Cleft Lip

• Affected side maxilla depression and slanted ANS process
• Severe nasal septum curve deviation causing nasal congestion
• Expanded affected nostril base with dent deformity
• Widened and drooping alar cartilage on affected side
• Raised and uneven nostril shape
• Deformity extending from maxilla to alar cartilage
• Requires rib cartilage reconstruction for septum, skin and soft tissue restoration

Why Rib Cartilage Is Best for Cleft Lip Rhinoplasty

Before & After

* Side effects such as inflammation after the surgery may vary by each individual and may require appropriate treatments. Please check the guideline with the doctor.