Comparison of Changes in Nasal Skin Sensation After Primary and Revision Rhinoplasty Procedures Using Semmes-Weinstein Monofilament Testing

Abstract

Background Numbness of the nasal skin is one of the most common complications following rhinoplasty Objectives The present study investigates postoperative changes in nasal skin sensation among primary and revision rhinoplasty patients, and evaluates the recovery outcomes for both groups. Methods A prospective, randomized blinded study was undertaken involving 100 primary and 34 revision open rhinoplasty patients, and 50 volunteers as control group. Semmes-Weinstein monofilament testing was performed on seven designated nasal points preoperatively and at postoperative months 1, 3, 6 and 12, and the results were evaluated. Results Among the primary rhinoplasty patients, the change in reduced sensation upon pressure to the tip and infratip over time was significant (p<0.001), while there was no statistically significant difference for the other points. Among the revision rhinoplasty patients, the change in reduced sensation upon pressure to the tip, infratip and the base of columella over time was significant (p<0.001), while there was no statistically significant difference at the other points. In a comparison of the revision and primary rhinoplasty patients at all timepoints, a statistically significant reduction in sensation was noted upon the application of pressure to all points in the revision patient group (p<0.001). Conclusions This study found that the sense of touch upon pressure returned to normal, aside from at the tip and infratip, by the end of month 12 in primary rhinoplasty patients. The revision rhinoplasty patients, in turn, were observed to have reduced sensation upon pressure by the end of month 12, with the greatest reduction at the tip, infratip and columellar base.