Component rhinoplasty.

Background: According to statistics of American Society of Plastic Surgeons, cosmetic rhinoplasty was the second most frequently performed cosmetic surgery. This study shares the experiences with component rhinoplasty.

Methods: From 2004 to 2010, all patients underwent aesthetic nasal surgery were enrolled. The patients requiring only correction of septal deviation and those presenting with cleft lip nasal deformity were excluded. All procedures were performed under general anaesthesia with open technique using transcolumellar and infra-cartilageous incisions. The transculomelalr incision was closed with 6-0 polypropylene and infra-cartilagenous incisions by 5-0 absorbable sutures. Non-absorbable sutures were removed on the fifth postoperative day. The septum was fixed by 'quilting sutures'. Both nostrils were packed with antibiotic ointment containing paraffin gauzes which were removed after 24-48 hours. External nasal splint was applied to be removed on the fifth postoperative day.

Results: A total of 191 patients were enrolled (male:female ratio=1:1.47). The mean age of female patients was 25.3 years and 29.4 years in males. Among 50.8% of patients, the cause of deformity was not known. Only 21.5% patients had a positive history of trauma. Majority of patients (90.6%) underwent septoplasty. Twenty percent of surgeries were secondary. Spreader grafts were used in 85% of patients. In 11% of patients, conchal grafts were used. For none of patients, the inferior turbinectomy was performed. No case of costal cartilage graft or silicone implant was used. Only 5.6% of patients had redo-surgeries. No abnormal scarring was noted during follow-up.

Conclusions: Dorsal hump reduction can be recommended with accuracy and safety without compromising the nasal airway.