A Standard Rhinoplasty Operation

Abstract

The technique in this chapter is offered as an expandable, sequential operation that can be easily modified to fit a wide range of primary noses. It is my firm belief that most well-trained surgeons with a passion for rhinoplasty surgery can do 80% of primary noses. Unfortunately, 95% of rhinoplasty lectures and articles deal with the most esoteric 5% of deformities, and there is often very little discussion of how to perform and modify a basic operation. I also believe that surgeons should operate within their comfort zone and sphere of competency. It makes no sense for surgeons with the least experience to do the most demanding cases. Remember, one good result brings you three cases but one bad case loses you nine, and in the Internet era, one disaster can ruin your career. Start with cases in which you know you will get a good result and expand your patient base over time. How do you teach yourself surgical cause and effect for your technique? You must keep detailed records and intraoperative photographs of your cases, write down your concerns, and see patients frequently. The reader is encouraged to use this standard operation as a template, but to review the pertinent sections of this text.