Rhinoplasty Outcomes in Patients With Symptoms of Body Dysmorphia.

BACKGROUND: Patients with symptoms of body dysmorphia often seek consultation for aesthetic rhinoplasty. While body dysmorphic disorder is a formal psychiatric diagnosis, recent evidence indicates that patients with symptoms of this condition who seek rhinoplasty may experience increased satisfaction with their appearance following surgery. OBJECTIVES: To determine the psychological impact of rhinoplasty in patients screened preoperatively and postoperatively with a body dysmorphia screening questionnaire. METHODS: Retrospective chart review was performed of patients who underwent aesthetic and/or functional rhinoplasty by a single surgeon from June 2021 to April 2023. Adult patients with a complete preoperative and postoperative Body Dysmorphic Disorder-Aesthetic Surgery questionnaire (BDDQ-AS), Standardized Cosmesis and Health Nasal Outcomes Survey-Obstruction and Cosmesis (SCHNOS), and visual analog scale (VAS) were included. Patient characteristics and outcomes were analyzed, stratifying by BDDQ-AS screen. RESULTS: One-hundred fifteen patients (88% female) met criteria for inclusion. There was an 83% resolution rate of BDDQ-AS positive screening following rhinoplasty. Positive BDDQ-AS screening status preoperatively and postoperatively correlated with worse aesthetic satisfaction (all P < .002). No patient-reported outcome measures were indicative of which patients with a BDDQ-AS positive screen preoperatively would experience "resolution" postoperatively. CONCLUSIONS: Body dysmorphia screening resolution following surgical intervention correlated with improved patient aesthetic satisfaction, pointing to a potential positive psychological impact of undergoing rhinoplasty.

Patient Outcomes in Lateral Crural Repositioning and Reconstruction in Revision Rhinoplasty.

Background: In revision rhinoplasty, lateral crural repositioning/reconstruction is considered a complex maneuver. The aim of this study is to measure patient outcomes after lateral crural repositioning/reconstruction in revision rhinoplasty. Methods: In this retrospective case series, patients who underwent revision rhinoplasty with lateral crural repositioning/reconstruction for functional, cosmetic, or combined purposes were reviewed. Preoperative Standardized Cosmesis and Health Nasal Outcomes Survey (SCHNOS) scores, functional and cosmetic visual analog scales (VAS-functional [F] and VAS-cosmetic [C]), and lateral wall insufficiency (LWI) grades were compared with their respective postoperative scores. Results: Forty-two patients were identified who underwent lateral crural repositioning. The mean postoperative follow-up for ≤6 months (PO1) and >6 months (PO2) was 3.1 (standard deviation [SD] 1.7) and 11.5 (SD 5.3) months, respectively. At both postoperative periods, significant improvement (p < 0.05) in patient-reported outcomes was observed in mean SCHNOS-Obstruction, SCHNOS-Cosmesis, VAS-F, and VAS-C scores. The postoperative changes in LWI scores (Δ) were significant on both sides at zone 1 at PO1 (p < 0.05) and PO2 (p < 0.05), and at PO2 on the left side (p < 0.05) only, for zone 2. Conclusion: Lateral crural repositioning with reconstruction is an effective maneuver in revision rhinoplasty in a subset of patients and specifically helps to improve nasal tip aesthetics while preserving function.

Forehead Flap Practices: A Cross-Sectional Survey of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons.

Background: The paramedian forehead flap (PMFF) is a well-established technique utilized for reconstruction of complex nasal defects. Objective: To identify the different techniques and management of patients undergoing PMFF reconstruction and compare these with current literature. Methods: Members of the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery were sent a practice survey highlighting various nuances in PMFF reconstruction. The survey included questions about flap design, operative techniques, and perioperative care. Results: In total, 172 responses were received (14% response rate). Mean years of practice after fellowship was 15.8 years with most respondents performing either 1-5 (33.1%) or 6-10 (27.3%) PMFFs per year. Common practices included the use of general anesthesia, elevation of PMFF in the subgaleal plane (59.6%), and pedicle division at 3 weeks (80%) (p < 0.001). Complication rates ranged between 1% and 5%. The nose was the most common site for revision (p < 0.001) and the average number of secondary procedures after forehead flap division was 1.1 (standard deviation 0.81). The most variability in responses was seen for methods of internal lining reconstruction. Conclusion: Reconstructive surgeons frequently divide the PMFF pedicle at 3 weeks or later and have variable approaches to reconstruction of the internal lining with low complication rates overall.

Prevalence and Characteristics Associated with Positive Body Dysmorphic Disorder Screening Among Patients Presenting for Cosmetic Facial Plastic Surgery.

Background: Many patients with body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) seek out cosmetic surgery to alleviate their symptoms of distress related to a perceived defect in their appearance; however, the prevalence and risk factors for BDD among patients with cosmetic concerns have not been well characterized. Methods: We screened adult patients presenting to the clinic from June 2021 through September 2022 for BDD using the BDD Questionnaire-Aesthetic Surgery (BDDQ-AS) who were seen in consultation for rhinoplasty, aging face, and injectables. Results: Among 488 patients, the prevalence of screening positive for BDD was 41.0%. The prevalence of a positive BDD screen was highest among patients who were younger (p = 0.02), and those who had a positive self-reported psychiatric history (p = 0.02). Among rhinoplasty patients, those with aesthetic/cosmetic motivations, and those seeking revision rhinoplasty had higher rates of positive BDD screen. Higher scores on the Standardized Cosmesis and Health Nasal Outcomes Survey-Nasal Obstruction Score (SCHNOS-O) (p = 0.01) and Standardized Cosmesis and Health Nasal Outcomes Survey-Nasal Obstruction Score-Nasal Cosmesis Score (SCHNOS-C) (p < 0.0001) were predictive of a positive BDD screen, while question 5 of the SCHNOS was highly predictive of positive BDD screening (p < 0.0001). Conclusions: Our study characterizes relationships between positive BDD screening and age, gender, self-reported psychiatric history, and motivations for consultation, among patients seen for cosmetic surgery evaluation in a facial plastic and reconstructive surgery setting.

Evidence-Based Medicine: Rhinoplasty Surgical Outcomes.

Evidence-based medicine has become increasingly important in healthcare today by providing a process to examine the highest levels of research and apply them to clinical practice. Integrating the best available evidence to clinical decision making ensures that patients receive the highest level of care based on thoroughly reviewed and validated research. These concepts can also be applied to rhinoplasty, both aesthetic and functional, emphasizing the importance of data-driven decisions to improve clinical care.

Evidence-Based Medicine: Facial Reanimation.

This article provides a brief historical overview of the assessment instruments that have been developed to categorize the severity of disease in patients with facial palsy. Important advances in the quality of these instruments are discussed. The modern-day instruments that are commonly required for evidence-based patient assessment are then presented, with emphasis on the level of evidence of the studies that describe these instruments.

Normative Values of the Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation Scale.

Background: The Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE) scale is widely used by clinicians in evaluation of nasal airway obstruction (NAO). Objective: To determine normative values for the NOSE scale among both symptomatic and asymptomatic members of the general U.S. population. Methods: A survey of NAO symptoms in adults of age 18 years and older was performed. The distribution of NOSE scores among the general population was estimated. Influence of features including age, gender, race, location, and symptomatology on NOSE scores was evaluated. Results: Surveys were completed by 2333 participants. Mean NOSE score was 11 (standard deviation [SD] 11) in the asymptomatic, and 28 (SD 22) in the symptomatic population (p < 0.0001). Increasing age was associated with an increase in scores until 45 years, after which it was associated with decreasing scores. No significant differences were found related to other investigated demographics. Conclusions: Normative ranges for the NOSE scale are established, and are largely consistent with values in the existing literature. NOSE scores do not appear to be influenced by gender, race, or geography, although age should be considered in their interpretation.

Chemodenervation of the Posterior Belly of the Digastric Muscle in Facial Synkinesis.

Background: Patients with facial synkinesis may have jaw tightness and swallow discomfort despite chemodenervation of facial mimetic musculature, and the posterior belly of the digastric (PBD) muscle is a logical target to treat these symptoms. Learning/Study Objective: To compare patient-reported outcomes of botulinum toxin (BT) chemodenervation of the posterior belly of digastric muscle in patients with postparalytic facial synkinesis. Design Type: Retrospective review. Methods: Patients with facial synkinesis who underwent electromyography (EMG)-guided PBD BT chemodenervation in addition to their baseline therapeutic regimen were included. Pre- and post-treatment Synkinesis Assessment Questionnaires (SAQ) and a two-question survey regarding jaw tightness and swallow discomfort were administered. Results: Twenty-nine patients were included. An average of 5 U of BT-A was injected into the PBD, and 46.5 U across all facial muscles. From pre- to post-injection, patients demonstrated improvement in jaw tightness at rest (3.02 vs. 1.98/5.0, p < 0.001), with swallow (2.78 vs. 1.94/5.0, p < 0.001), and total SAQ (64.3 vs. 51.2/100, p < 0.001). Patients rated subjective benefit from PBD injection compared with prior treatments without PBD injection as 4.5/5.0. Conclusion: Synkinesis patients with jaw tightness or swallow discomfort may benefit from the addition of PBD injections to the therapeutic regimen.

Complications Associated with Use of Porous High-Density Polyethylene in Rhinoplasty.

Background: Porous high-density polyethylene (pHDPE) has successfully been used as an alternative to cartilage for grafting in rhinoplasty; however, concerns exist surrounding its potential for infection and/or extrusion. Objectives: To analyze the relationship between complication rates associated with pHDPE in rhinoplasty and graft location relative to shear force applied by external manipulation. Methods: Retrospective review of 116 patients undergoing pHDPE rhinoplasty for 10 years. Results: Minor postoperative complications occurred in 3.4% of patients, each resolving with conservative management. Major complications including infection or extrusion occurred in 5.2% of all patients, at an average of 36.9 months postoperatively. All major complications occurred in patients with grafts extending into the caudal nose, and two-thirds ultimately necessitated surgical intervention. Conclusions: Cephalically contained pHDPE grafts are less prone to failure than those extending into the caudal nose. Long-term follow-up is recommended for all patients based on the risk for delayed complications.

Repair of Septal Perforations.

Nasal septal perforations have varied etiologies, clinical presentations, and methods of management. Some patients may be asymptomatic, while others may complain of nasal obstruction, crusting, epistaxis, and whistling. Management of nasal septal perforations is guided by the patient's symptoms and characteristics of the perforation. Some lesions can be managed conservatively or with minimally invasive procedures, while others require surgery. Surgical repair of perforations can be challenging and many techniques have been described without a standardized method of management. This article aims to provide a comprehensive review of options for repair of nasal septal perforations.

Septal Perfoplasty for Management of Symptomatic Nasal Septal Perforation: An Alternative to Surgical Closure.

Importance: Symptomatic septal perforations are often difficult to manage and can have a significant impact on patient quality of life. Available surgical techniques for repair have demonstrated a varying rate of success, presenting a need for reliable interventions targeting symptom control. Objectives: To describe the modified surgical technique here termed septal perfoplasty. To demonstrate that creation of favorable septal perforation characteristics is effective in managing symptoms and improving patient quality of life. Design, Setting, and Participants: A retrospective review of the medical record was performed of patients who underwent the procedure of interest between July 1, 2006 and October 1, 2019 at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. All patients with symptomatic septal perforation who underwent septal perfoplasty within the timeframe reviewed were included. Septal perfoplasty was standardly performed in combination with turbinate reduction in all cases. This was combined with other indicated procedures for chronic sinusitis, repair of vestibular stenosis or nasal deformity. Main Outcomes and Measures: Creation of a well-mucosalized septal perforation, combined with patient-reported acceptable symptom control, was the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes include time to resolution, duration of follow-up, postsurgical complications, and need for further intervention. Results: Twenty patients (70% female; mean [range] age, 45.8 [15-72] years) underwent septal perfoplasty over the course of 13 years. The most common etiology of perforation was trauma (40%), presenting symptom was crusting (95%), and size of perforation repaired was large (60%). Mean follow-up was 37.6 months (range, 1-153 months). Overall, favorable perforation characteristics were created in 95% of cases by the first postoperative appointment. Acceptable symptomatic control was achieved in 18 out of 20 patients (90%), with a median time to improvement of 66 days. Eight patients required additional surgery to address chronic sinusitis or vestibular stenosis. Two patients experienced postoperative infections, treated conservatively with antibiotics. Conclusion and Relevance: Septal perfoplasty is a safe, simple, and effective method for management of symptomatic nasal septal perforation, which provides an alternative to more complicated interventions with comparable rates of symptomatic resolution. This procedure should particularly be considered for patients in which difficult repair is anticipated.

Outcomes of Revision Cochlear Implantation.

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS: This study aims to 1) report revision cochlear implantation (CI) rates at a high-volume CI center, 2) describe classifications for revision CI, 3) analyze audiologic and surgical outcomes in patients who undergo revision CI, and 4) describe a new subcategory of soft failures, named presumed soft failures. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective case series. SETTING: Tertiary care otologic center. PATIENTS: Adults and children undergoing revision CI from 2005 to 2015. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: Type and etiology of CI failure, preoperative, and postoperative outcomes (audiologic, surgical). RESULTS: During the study period, 1,469 CI surgeries were performed with a total of 81 (5.51%) revision cochlear implantations, 64 of these meeting inclusion criteria with adequate follow up and clear indications for revision surgery. The most common indication for revision surgery was hard failure (53.1%), followed by soft failure (29.7%), and medical/surgical failure (17.2%). 78.1% (50/64) of revision CI patients showed improvement postoperatively (defined as 15% improvement of speech perceptions scores or improvement of aversive symptoms, according to the 2005 consensus statement guidelines). Hard failures showed improvement in 85.3% (29/34) of cases, medical and surgical failures showed improvement in 72.7% (8/11) of cases, and soft failures showed improvement in 68.4% (13/19) of cases. There was a statistically significant difference in percentage of adult versus pediatric patients by failure subtype, with 84.2% of soft failure patients classified as adults (18 or older) at the time of revision surgery compared with 50% and 36.3% for hard failure and medical/surgical failure patients, respectively (p = 0.02). Similarly, there was a trend, though not statistically significant, towards older age in the soft failure group compared with hard and medical/surgical failure groups (median 43 yr versus 18 and 16, respectively). Within the soft failure group there was a subset of patients that failed to show improvement in audiologic performance or experienced continued aversive symptoms referred to as "presumed soft failures." These patients, by definition, experienced worse outcomes after revision surgery (p < 0.05) and trended towards older age (43 versus 31 yr) and longer time from initial to revision surgery (27.3 versus 24.7 mo) when compared with true soft failures. CONCLUSIONS: The majority of patients improved after revision CI surgery; patients with hard failure demonstrated the highest percentage with improvement, while those with soft failures had worse outcomes. The presumed soft failure group may represent a unique etiology for CI failure that warrants further investigation given worse outcomes after revision surgery.

Unilateral Vocal Fold Immobility After Prolonged Endotracheal Intubation.

Importance: Endotracheal intubation and mechanical ventilation are life-saving treatments for acute respiratory failure but are complicated by significant rates of dyspnea and dysphonia after extubation. Unilateral vocal fold immobility (UVFI) after extubation can alter respiration and phonation, but its incidence, risk factors, and pathophysiology remain unclear. Objectives: To determine the incidence of UVFI after prolonged (>12 hours) mechanical ventilation in a medical intensive care unit and investigate associated clinical risk factors for UVFI after prolonged mechanical ventilation. Design, Setting, and Participants: This subgroup analysis of a prospective cohort study was conducted in a single-center medical intensive care unit from August 17, 2017, through May 31, 2018, among 100 consecutive adult patients who were intubated for more than 12 hours. Patients were identified within 36 hours of extubation and recruited for study enrollment. Those with an established tracheostomy prior to mechanical ventilation, known laryngeal or tracheal pathologic characteristics, or a history of head and neck radiotherapy were excluded. Exposure: Invasive mechanical ventilation via an endotracheal tube. Main Outcomes and Measures: The incidence of UVFI as determined by flexible nasolaryngoscopy. Results: One hundred patients (62 men [62%]; median age, 58.5 years [range, 19.0-87.0 years]) underwent endoscopic evaluation after extubation. Seven patients had UVFI, of which 6 cases (86%) were left sided. Patients with hypotension while intubated (odds ratio [OR], 10.8; 95% CI, 1.6 to ∞), patients requiring vasopressors while intubated (OR, 16.7; 95% CI, 2.4 to ∞), and patients with a preadmission diagnosis of peripheral vascular disease (OR, 6.2; 95% CI, 1.2-31.9) or coronary artery disease (OR, 5.1; 95% CI, 1.0-25.5) were more likely to develop UVFI. Conclusions and Relevance: Unilateral vocal fold immobility occurred in 7 of 100 patients in the medical intensive care unit who were intubated for more than 12 hours. Unilateral vocal fold immobility was associated with inpatient hypotension and preadmission vascular disease, suggesting that ischemia of the recurrent laryngeal nerve may play a role in disease pathogenesis.