Split rib graft for alar collapse.

Alar collapse may be developmental and can occur after trauma or tip rhinoplasty. This condition is often seen in elderly persons. Autogenous split costal bone that was grafted to the nasal bones proved effective in the treatment of alar collapse in three patients. This method changes the weakened alar wall into a noncollapsible extension of the nasal bones. Nasal inspiratory airflow was substantially increased after surgery.