Risks and complications in rhinoplasty. A comparative study in structural vs preservation rhinoplasty

Abstract

Introduction. Rhinoseptoplasty is considered the most challenging operation because many techniques have to be taken into consideration to achieve an optimal aesthetic and functional results. Rhinoseptoplasty techniques have been perfected over time, following two main surgical approaches: structural rhinoplasty (resection/ reconstruction) and conservative (preservation rhinoplasty). Methods. The authors present the risks and complications in a comparative study of 100 cases with patients in primary rhinoseptoplasty performed between 2019-2021: 50 cases in Structural Rhinoplasty and 50 cases in Preservation Rhinoplasty. The study presents two surgical concepts of rhinoplasty regarding the main advantages, disadvantages and indications of each type of rhinoseptoplasty surgery. Results and conclusions. Complications post-rhinoseptoplasty can be considered as perioperative, functional, anatomic (aesthetic) and psyhological. In this study 10 cases (10%) of primary rhinoplasty required revision surgery. The most frequent postoperative deformity is the “pollybeak” when a deep naso-frontal angle, cartilaginous hump and reduced tip projection are present preoperatively. The pollybeak was the indication in 4 cases (40%) of all revision rhinoplasties. Other frequent postoperative deformities are: wide nasal tip, retractions of the columella base and irregularities of the nasal dorsum. These deformities are very often combined and caused by a loss of septal support. Septorhinoplasty is a difficult procedure and the surgeon must have accurate anatomical knowledge and rich clinical experience. The risks for rhinoplasty-complications can be reduced with increasing experience. It is very important to make distinction between complication and mistake.