Our Summary

This research paper discusses a type of nose surgery, known as preservation rhinoplasty, which is not new but has been given a new name. The authors have used techniques that were originally developed by Dr Maurice Cottle. These techniques involve adjusting the nose from inside the nostrils, and focus on making changes in a careful and conservative way, which often means that less major restructuring of the nose is needed. The specifics of how the authors use these techniques are outlined in the paper.

FAQs

  1. What is preservation rhinoplasty and how is it different from traditional rhinoplasty techniques?
  2. What is the endonasal Cottle technique and how does it contribute to preservation rhinoplasty?
  3. How does the preservation rhinoplasty approach reduce the need for routine restructuring of the middle third and nasal dorsum?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about rhinoplasty is to trust the expertise of your surgeon and follow their post-operative instructions closely for the best results. It is important to have realistic expectations and understand that final results may take time to fully develop. It is also important to communicate openly with your surgeon about your goals and concerns to ensure a successful outcome.

Suitable For

Patients who are good candidates for preservation rhinoplasty include those who have minor nasal deformities that can be addressed with conservative techniques, such as a dorsal hump or slight asymmetry. Preservation rhinoplasty is particularly beneficial for patients who have thick skin or weak cartilage, as it can help avoid over-resection of tissue and maintain natural-looking results. Patients who are looking for subtle changes to their nasal appearance rather than dramatic alterations may also be good candidates for preservation rhinoplasty. Ultimately, the decision to undergo rhinoplasty, whether preservation or traditional, should be made in consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon who can assess the individual’s unique needs and goals.

Timeline

Before rhinoplasty:

  1. Consultation: The patient meets with a plastic surgeon to discuss their desired outcomes and the potential risks and benefits of the procedure.
  2. Pre-operative assessment: The patient undergoes a physical examination and may also have imaging tests to assess the structure of the nose and surrounding tissues.
  3. Planning: The surgeon develops a personalized surgical plan based on the patient’s goals and anatomy.
  4. Preparing for surgery: The patient may need to stop taking certain medications, avoid smoking, and make other lifestyle changes to prepare for the procedure.

After rhinoplasty:

  1. Immediate post-operative period: The patient may experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the days following surgery. Pain medication and cold compresses can help manage these symptoms.
  2. Follow-up appointments: The patient will have several follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing and address any concerns.
  3. Recovery: It can take several weeks for swelling to fully resolve and for the final results of the surgery to become apparent. The patient may need to wear a splint on their nose for a period of time.
  4. Long-term results: Over time, the nose will continue to heal and settle into its final shape. The patient can expect to see the full results of the surgery within a year of the procedure.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. Am I a good candidate for preservation rhinoplasty?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with this procedure?
  3. What is the recovery process like and how long can I expect it to take?
  4. Can you show me before and after photos of patients who have undergone preservation rhinoplasty?
  5. How will this technique affect the overall appearance and function of my nose?
  6. What are the limitations of preservation rhinoplasty compared to traditional rhinoplasty techniques?
  7. Will I still be able to achieve my desired aesthetic results with preservation rhinoplasty?
  8. How long can I expect the results of preservation rhinoplasty to last?
  9. Are there any alternative treatment options that I should consider?
  10. What is your experience and success rate with preservation rhinoplasty procedures?

Reference

Authors: Friedman O, Ulloa FL, Kern EB. Journal: Facial Plast Surg Clin North Am. 2021 Feb;29(1):67-75. doi: 10.1016/j.fsc.2020.08.006. PMID: 33220845