Use of Computer Imaging in Rhinoplasty: A Survey of the Practices of Facial Plastic Surgeons

Overview

The authors surveyed members of the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery about computer imaging (morphing) in rhinoplasty consultations, collecting demographics, practice setting, imaging rates for primary and revision cases, who performed the imaging, and whether patients received the images.

Sections of note

• 238 of 1,200 surgeons responded (19.8%); 195 (83%) were board certified by the ABFPRS.
• 150 (63%) used computer imaging in rhinoplasty consultations.
• 92% of users performed the morphing themselves.
• About two-thirds gave patients a printout of the morphed images.
• Most users applied it to both primary and revision cases. Level of Evidence V.

What it means for a patient

• Most facial plastic surgeons will show you a simulated result during consultation, and the surgeon usually makes it personally.
• A printout to take home is common but not universal; some surgeons withhold it to avoid it being treated as a promise.
• The data are from 2017 and the response rate was low.

Why this paper matters

It quantifies how widespread simulation had become in US practice. Limits: 20% response rate, self-report, dated.

Terms

• Computer imaging (morphing): editing a photograph to show a proposed surgical result.
• AAFPRS: American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.
• ABFPRS: the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, the certifying board.