OBLIQUE SUBMUCOSAL TRANSDOMAL SUTURES: A TARGETED TECHNIQUE FOR NOSTRIL NARROWING AND TIP STABILITY

Umur AKINER

European Journal of Rhinology and Allergy - 2026;9(1):10-15

Private Practice, Dr. Umur Akiner Clinic, Istanbul

 

Objective: To evaluate the functional and aesthetic outcomes of the Oblique Submucosal Transdomal Suture (OSTS) technique in achieving nostril narrowing and enhancing nasal tip stability. Methods: The OSTS technique is a multi-vector, submucosal, transdomal suture configuration designed to reinforce the dome complex and restore an ideal resting/leaning angle between the medial and lateral crura. This study retrospectively reviewed 50 patients who underwent the OSTS technique as part of primary or secondary rhinoplasty procedures. Demographics, operative details, surgeon aesthetic scores, patient satisfaction scores, complications, and follow-up periods were analyzed. Results: Among 50 cases, 71.4% underwent primary rhinoplasty and 28.6% had secondary procedures. The most common indications were wide nostrils (64.3%) and inadequate tip projection (35.7%). Postoperative surgeon grading ranged from 6 to 10, and patient satisfaction scores ranged from 4 to 10 across all cases. No major complications were reported. Follow-up ranged from 12 to 18 months, showing a stable reduction in nostril width and maintained tip position. The OSTS technique effectively increased dome stability while preventing cephalic widening at the transition zone between the medial and middle crura. Conclusion: The OSTS method provides a reliable, minimally invasive way to narrow wide nostrils while improving tip stability. Its angled, multi-plane suture placement strengthens the dome complex, reduces unwanted convexity, and delivers high functional and aesthetic results. The technique is especially beneficial for patients with weak dome structures or those needing precise refinement of the nostril base.