Low Block Hybrid Rhinoplasty as a New Alternative for Mixed-Race Noses.
Ronny Azabache, Jaime Robles, Carlos Segura
Abstract
Open AccessBackground: Rhinoplasty is among the most popular plastic surgical procedures worldwide. In Latin America, performing rhinoplasty on mixed-race noses is challenging. Therefore, developing new approaches and techniques to improve surgical outcomes is important. This study describes the low block technique and evaluates its efficacy in preserving the dorsum and shaping the nasal tip. Methods: Forty-six patients underwent surgery using the low block technique in a private center in Trujillo, Peru, between August 2023 and January 2024. Nasal dorsum height and tip projection were measured using a projectometer before surgery, immediately after, and at 1, 3, and 6 months postoperatively. Surgical indications were classified according to the authors' system (types I, II, and III) based on tissue morphology and cartilage quality. Results: The technique was performed on 42 women and 4 men aged 15-43 years (mean, 25 y). According to the approach, 16 patients (34.8%) were type I, 6 (13%) type IIa, 9 (19.6%) type IIb, and 15 (32.6%) type III. Mean operative time was 198 minutes. Pre- and postoperative measurements varied significantly (P < 0.05) and remained stable for 6 months. No adverse events occurred. Conclusions: The low block technique is effective in preserving and shaping the nasal tip and dorsum, as demonstrated by stable postoperative measurements during 6 months of follow-up. The technique proved safe, with no complications reported.