Long-term outcomes of a rhinolift procedure for obstructive symptoms in the aging nose in 2 patients.
Age-related changes in the structure of the nose can obstruct the nasal airway and adversely affect quality of life. Several procedures are available to restore the patency of the airway, but not all are appropriate for all patients. Also, long-term outcomes data on such procedures are lacking. We describe our use of a rhinolift procedure with local anesthesia to correct nasal obstruction caused by nasal tip ptosis in 2 elderly men. In both cases, the procedure resulted in a complete or near-complete resolution of obstructive symptoms. We also conducted long-term follow-up of these 2 patients. Both experienced a recurrence of symptoms 1 to 2 years postoperatively. We conclude that the rhinolift procedure we describe is safe and effective for the short-term relief of age-related nasal obstruction in selected patients.
Division of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Otolaryngology, Tripler Army Medical Center, 1 Jarrett White Rd., Honolulu, HI 96859, USA. scottroofe@hotmail.com
Scott B
SB
Roofe
Sam P
SP
Most
D000368:Aged; D000375:Aging / Q000502:physiology*; D000772:Anesthesia, Local; D001284:Atrophy / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery; D002908:Chronic Disease; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D055171:Nasal Cartilages / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery; D015508:Nasal Obstruction / Q000601:surgery*; D009300:Nasal Septum / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery; D013517:Otorhinolaryngologic Surgical Procedures / Q000379:methods*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013997:Time Factors