Rhinoplasty from the Goldman/ Cottle Schools to the Present: A Survey of 7447 Personal Cases

Abstract

Background To review the personal experience of a single surgeon over a 31 year period. Method A retrospective analysis of 7447 rhinoplasties performed by a single surgeon from 1969 to 2000. Ninety-five surgeries performed at educational courses were excluded from this series. Results During the many years of performing rhinoplasties, cartilage splitting, delivery, and external approach are among the most common techniques. In the first decade, 62% were cartilage splitting, 33% delivery, and 3% external. In the second decade, 13% were cartilage splitting, 58% delivery, and 26% external. In the third decade, 11% were cartilage splitting, 52% delivery, and 36% external. Conclusion Over a three-decade period, the techniques of the author have been influenced by national trends, training, and patient outcomes.