What causes cartilaginous pollybeak deformity?

Cartilaginous pollybeak deformity is a postoperative nasal deformity that can occur after rhinoplasty procedures, due to various surgical missteps regarding the nasal tip and dorsum. This deformity is characterized by an overly full or rounded appearance of the nasal tip and can result from different types of surgical errors.

Excessive trimming of the nasal tip can lead to loss of support and structure in the lower lateral cartilages, resulting in a lack of definition that is characteristic of the pollybeak deformity. When there is insufficient support from these structures, the overlying soft tissue can become lax and appear bulbous.

On the other hand, underresection of the cartilaginous dorsum means there is an inadequate reduction of the dorsal cartilage, which fails to create a smooth contour. This can lead to an exaggerated appearance, creating a visual dissonance with the improved nasal tip, contributing to the pollybeak deformity.

Overresection of the lower lateral cartilages can also contribute to this condition by causing a lack of structural integrity in the nasal tip. When these cartilages are excessively reduced, the tip may become flattened or lose its appropriate projection, which can again result in a rounded, un