OasisLMS

This CME article reviews the embryologic and anatomical basis of the unilateral cleft lip and nose; highlights key challenges in correction; and examines the impact of different surgical techniques, including open, closed, and conservative approaches. The role of septoplasty, alar base repositioning, and tip manipulation is analyzed, along with the importance of consistent postoperative care and outcome monitoring to achieve long-term symmetry and functional success. This review provides a structured framework to guide surgical decision-making and optimize long-term outcomes in cleft rhinoplasty.

Learning Objectives
After viewing this course, the participant should be able to:

1.Understand the embryologic and anatomical basis of the nose in a unilateral cleft lip.
2.Identify key challenges in achieving nasal symmetry and balance in cleft rhinoplasty coinciding with primary lip reconstruction.
3.Evaluate the advantages and limitations of different surgical approaches to the nasal tip, including open, closed, and conservative techniques.
4.Recognize the role of septoplasty, alar base repositioning, and nasal tip manipulation in improving outcomes.
5.Appreciate the importance of postoperative management and the commitment to systematically documenting and analyzing long-term results.

Chong, David K. FRACS 
Tanikawa, Daniela Y. S. MD, PhD
Fell, Matthew FRCS

Editor-in-Chief: Kevin Chung, MD

Co-Editor: Amy Colwell, MD

Section Editors: John Y.S. Kim, MD

• Patient Care and Procedural Skills
• Medical Knowledge
• Practice-based Learning and Improvement

Accreditation

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

Designation

The ASPS designates this enduring material for a maximum of 1.0AMA PRA Category 1 Credit. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

Of the 1.0 credits, 0.5 have been identified as applicable to patient safety. 

AMA PRA Category 1 Credit^TM :1.0

Patient Safety Credit:0.5

Media:Journal Article, video

Release Date: 02/01/2026

Expiration Date: 02/01/2029*

Estimated time to complete this course:1 hour

*Course access ends on course expiration date

Disclosure Policy
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) requires all faculty, authors, planners, reviewers, managers, staff and other individuals in a position to control or influence the content of an activity to disclose all relevant financial relationships or affiliations. All identified conflicts of interest must be resolved and the educational content thoroughly vetted by ASPS for fair balance, scientific objectivity and appropriateness of patient care recommendations. The ASPS also requires faculty/authors to disclose when off-label/unapproved uses of a product are discussed in a CME activity or included in related materials. 

Participants in ASPS-accredited education who want their CME credits reported to certifying and state licensing boards must opt-in to reporting and add their NPI as well as state license ID and/or collaborating board ID(s) before claiming credit.

Directly provided by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons® (ASPS®)