Simplifying Rhinoplasty

Abstract

Based on my 25-year experience of practicing, teaching, and writing about rhinoplasty surgery, I have come to the conclusion that we must simplify the rhinoplasty operation. For the average surgeon who performs less than 25 rhinoplasties a year, it makes no sense to try several new techniques each year and then discard them before attaining proficiency. Instead, one should master a fundamental rhinoplasty operation that can be adapted to a wide range of primary nasal deformities. Initially, the surgeon should operate within their comfort zone and gradually progress to more difficult cases. Over a period of 3–5 years, the operation’s surgical cause and effect will become apparent. With this approach, the surgeon will attain proficiency and confidence in dealing with a variety of nasal deformities. Equally, an increasing number of happy patients will insure an expanding rhinoplasty practice.