Rhinoplasty as an Adjunct to Facial Rejuvenation

Overview

Rhinoplasty is not usually counted among facial rejuvenation procedures, but the author states the same age related changes that affect other facial structures also affect the nose and midface. Comparatively little has been written about nasal rejuvenation. The article presents rhinoplasty as an under recognized but useful addition to treating the aging face.

Sections of note

• Review article; the abstract reports no patient numbers, no outcomes, no complication rates and no follow up.
• The author states involutional changes affecting the face also impact the nose and midface.
• Little has been written on nasal rejuvenation specifically.
• The aging nose is described as presenting unique problems due to changes in the cartilage and the supporting structures.
• The stated conclusion is that a comprehensive facial rejuvenation plan should address these progressive effects.

What it means for a patient

• The nose changes with age, typically as the tip drops and support weakens.
• The article proposes considering the nose when planning facelift or related surgery.
• This is opinion. No outcomes, techniques or numbers are reported in the abstract.

Why this paper matters

Facial rejuvenation surgery has focused on the cheeks, jawline and eyes, leaving the nose out of the planning even as it changes shape with age. This article states the case for including it. Whether adding rhinoplasty improves rejuvenation results has not been measured.

Terms

• Facial rejuvenation: surgery or treatment aimed at reversing signs of aging.
• Involutional changes: the tissue changes that come with aging, including thinning and loss of support.
• Midface: the region of the face between the eyes and the mouth.
• Tip support: the structures holding the nasal tip in position, which weaken with age.
• Adjunct: something added alongside a main treatment.