What is alar batten?

Alar battens are pieces of cartilage taken from the nasal septum (the wall between the 2 halves of the nose) or from the ear. They are placed in the side wall of the nose under the skin.

What is alar cartilage grafts?

The alar cartilage spreader graft, in selected patients, is an alternative and effective procedure to improve dorsum deformities, to prevent inverted “V” deformities, and to improve airway flow in the internal nasal valve deformities.

How do you fix nasal valve collapse?

Nasal valve collapse is most commonly treated with surgery. However, those who want to avoid surgery can sometimes relieve their symptoms by using a nasal valve dilator. This is a device that manually widens the nasal valve. Some are worn externally and serve to widen the nose in the area of the nasal valve.

What is batten graft made of?

What are batten grafts made of? Typically batten grafts are made of cartilage from the nasal septum, ear or rib. The nasal septum is usually the first choice but ear cartilage is also excellent. Occasionally a small straight piece of very thin nasal bone can be used and can work very well.

What is a nasal graft?

During the course of a rhinoplasty, in some cases grafts may be used to support or improve the appearance of the nose. The term graft typically refers to affixing one type of tissue to another. The framework of the nose is made up of cartilage, bone, and connective tissue.

When do you need an alar Batten graft?

Alar Batten Grafts are often used to prevent or correct a nasal valve collapse, namely when the collapse is caused by weakness in the nasal sidewall. (A collapsed nasal sidewall causes narrowing of the nasal valve, which can potentially lead to breathing problems.)

Where are alar Batts used in rhinoplasty?

Alar batten grafts are often used in combination with a septoplasty or septorhinoplasty procedure. They are placed just above the lower lateral cartilages. They may be harvested from the septum or ear, but Dr. Rizk prefers to use septal cartilage grafts because they are stronger.

What can a batten graft do for You?

Batten grafts are especially beneficial in treating dynamic external valve collapse. This involves the inward movement of the nasal sidewall during inspiration. This patient has significant right external valve collapse as seen in the above photograph.

Can you feel alar Batten grafts on your nose?

No, and yes. Alar batten grafts are sometimes visible as they are located under the skin of the sides of your nose. They are also lifting the nose outward so you will see the result of having the grafts in place. You also may be able to feel them, and they will feel very similar to the way the cartilage feels in the tip of your nose.