gms | German Medical Science

Aim: Acceptance of computer-aided image simulation prior to rhinoplasty was examined in a long-term observation of patients.

Introduction: The patient-physician counseling session prior to rhinoplasty is an important part of providing preoperative information to patients. It decisively influences the surgeon-patient confidence. The patient’s ideas regarding desired changes in shape should be clearly stated; on the other hand, the surgeon should point out unrealistic wishes.

Method: A prospective study applied subjective and objective criteria to evaluate computer-aided image simulation in the preparatory phase of a functional aesthetic intervention. Computer-aided digital image simulation of the altered nose shape was carried out preoperatively in 20 patients with a subsequent questionnaire-based analysis of their acceptance. Patients were explicitly informed that this procedure served the purpose of illustration and did not guarantee a particular surgical result. In addition, the predictive value of the procedure was assessed postoperatively on the basis of digital images and a postoperative questionnaire. Apart from subjective data, different profile angles and proportion indices were compared on the pre- and postoperative digital image. Patients’ long-term satisfaction with the computer-aided image simulation was evaluated after three years using a questionnaire.

Result: Computer-aided image simulation prior to rhinoplasty also showed high patient acceptance in the long-term observation.