Why Is Rhinoplasty Done After a Cleft?
Most people with a Cleft Lip and Palate also have a nose deformity: a crooked nose and a wide tip, often with a deviated septum that makes breathing difficult. Cleft Rhinoplasty corrects the outer shape of the nose and, with a Septoplasty, the breathing problem caused by the septum.
When Is It Done?
Usually after 18 years of age, once growth is complete. It is normally the last operation in the planned course of cleft treatment.
What the Surgery Involves
You are seen by the anaesthetist before surgery and admitted on the day of the operation, which takes about 2–3 hours under general anaesthesia.
A small, hidden cut is made on the underside and inside of the nose, and the septum and nose are corrected. Sometimes cartilage is taken from a rib or the ear to rebuild the nose. You wake up with a nasal pack inside the nose and a splint on it, and usually go home the next day.
After Surgery
- Mild oozing of blood from the nose and mouth is normal.
- The nasal packs come out after 1 day and the splint after 1 week.
- Wound check and stitch removal at 1 week.
Possible Complications
Infection, bleeding, swelling and pain are the common complications; pain in hospital is managed by the acute pain service team. If rib or ear cartilage is used, there is also a scar where it was taken. Cleft Rhinoplasty is a very challenging operation, and in rare cases further surgery is needed to correct minor asymmetry.
See also: Rhinoplasty — Reshaping the nose, with Septoplasty when breathing is affected. One-day admission.
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age is Cleft Rhinoplasty done?
Usually after 18 years, once growth is complete. It is normally the last operation in cleft care.
Will it help my breathing?
Yes, when a deviated septum is the cause — it is corrected in the same operation with a Septoplasty.
Why might cartilage be taken from my rib or ear?
Extra cartilage is sometimes needed to rebuild the nose. It leaves a scar where it was taken.
Related Cleft Lip and Palate Procedures
- Cleft Lip Repair — Lip repair at 3–6 months: the operation, feeding and scar care.
- Cleft Palate Repair — Palate repair at 9–12 months, with speech and hearing follow-up.
- Speech Surgery — For nasal speech that persists after therapy, usually from age 5–6.
- Alveolar Bone Grafting — Bone graft to the gum gap at 7–11 years, timed to the canine tooth.
- Jaw Surgery After Cleft — Le Fort I or Double-Jaw Surgery after 16 for a flat midface and underbite.
This page is general information written by Dr Vybhav Deraje for patients and families. It does not replace an individual consultation; treatment depends on clinical assessment.