Algorithm for posttraumatic rhinoplasty

Abstract

Rhinoplasty has been considered the most difficult aesthetic surgery procedure. There are multiple variables contributing to the difficulty of this operation including skin thickness; interplay between bone, cartilage, and mucosa; surgeon experience; and patient's expectations. Posttraumatic rhinoplasties are particularly difficult because of the added variables of the initial trauma, septal deformities, as well as frequent airflow obstruction complaints from the patient. Gross deviations of the nasal complex are often the norm and not the exception when addressing posttraumatic rhinoplasty. The purpose of this chapter is to describe a step-by-step approach in treating patients with a posttraumatic nasal deformity.