Nasal hump: Five year analysis

Abstract

Introduction The nose has a prominent central position in the face and therefore it considerably contributes to the esthetic appearance and facial harmony. On the anterior view, the face is dominated by the nasal length and width, as well as medial location. On the lateral view, the nasal dorsum is most important; although it is the dimension we cannot see ourselves, it is the most common cause of surgery. Material and methods This five-year retrospective study included 216 patients of both sexes; their average age was 22 years, and they underwent surgery at the Ear, Throat and Nose Clinic in Novi Sad in the period from 2001 to 2006. There were 89 male, and 127 female patients. Results Most patients were aged 18 - 22 years (57%). A nasal pyramid deformity with septal deviation was present in 81.1% of patients, whereas 18.9% (41 patients) presented only with a nasal pyramid deformity. Out of the total number of patients, 24 patients had both nasal kyphosis and scoliosis. All patients underwent closed rhinoplasty with obligatory correction of the tip of the nose. The nasal hump removal with lateral osteotomy was also performed in all patients. Two patients underwent reoperation, due to small dorsal humps within the cartilage, while one patient had a postoperative septal perforation. One patient presented with a postoperative abscess of the nasal dorsum, which was conservatively managed. Conclusion Nasal hump is the most common nasal pyramid deformity, often without a nasal septum deviation. It is quite easily treated by surgery. Two patients have already undergone reoperation with good results, and two patients had postoperative complications. Postoperative complications were recorded in 1,85% of patients.