Evaluation of Patients’ Satisfaction After Rhinoplasty: A Prospective Study

Abstract

Background: Rhinoplasty is a technically demanding procedure, requiring a comprehensive understanding of the nasal and facial anatomy and carrying out the nasofacial analysis. These factors are critical in determining the operative plan and the most effective technique that manipulates cartilage, bone, and soft tissue. The ultimate aim of rhinoplasty is to satisfy the patients with post-operative aesthetic and functional outcomes.Objective: To assess the long-term functional and aesthetic satisfaction among a sample of Egyptian patients subjected to rhinoplasty. Patients and Methods:This was a prospective cohort study conducted at Al-Azhar University Hospitals from May 2014 to May 2019. Patients aged more than 22 years of both sexes subjected to rhinoplasty, and presented in the outpatient clinics for follow-up were included. Post-operative counseling with the patients about the pre-operative conditions and deformities was done. Patients' satisfaction was assessed using the rhinoplasty outcome evaluation questionnaire.Results: This study included a total of 30 patients. Of them, there was 3 (10%) male and 27 (90%) females with a mean age of 38.1±6.91years. The mean level of Rhinoplasty outcome evaluation questionnaire was 77.1±6.91. Out of the included patients, 17 (56.66%) patients were satisfied with their aesthetic and functional rhinoplasty outcomes and were presented only for follow-up. Of the remaining 13 (43.33%) cases, four (13.3%) cases required secondary correction due to functional problems and complained of headache and difficulty breathing. Two patients were dissatisfied due to partner dissatisfaction that developed significant psychological impact. Conclusion:A considerable proportion of patients were dissatisfied after rhinoplasty. The major contributing factors are related to functional and aesthetic problems, as well as psychological morbidities. Therefore, patients seeking rhinoplasty should be subjected to thoroughly functional and psychological evaluation preoperatively to achieve the desired functional and aesthetic outcomes.