Objectives: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of diagnostic ultrasound for nonsurgical rhinoplasty to prevent vascular occlusion complications.
Introduction: Nonsurgical rhinoplasty is a popular aesthetic procedure with high patient satisfaction, but it carries a relatively high risk of vascular complications, including blindness. Previous recommendations included injecting fillers in the supraperiosteal and supraperichondrial plane in the midline. However, individual anatomy may vary or be distorted by prior procedures. We review our experience using real-time high resolution ultrasound, including Duplex ultrasound, to prevent vascular occlusion complications and improve precision of nasal filler injections.
Materials / method: 42 consecutive patients underwent 58 nonsurgical rhinoplasty procedures between October 2020 and October 2021. Real-time ultrasound examination was done to identify the location and extent of blood vessels, cartilages, filler deposits, and surgical changes. Injection plans were modified as necessary based on this information. Ultrasound examination after the injection confirmed normal blood flow and evaluated filler placement. Standard photographical images were taken before and after each procedure and at the time of follow up to assess the efficacy of the filler injection.
Results: There were no instances of vascular occlusion. Filler placement in the supraperiosteal and supraperichondrial plane was confirmed by ultrasound. 41 patients (98%) were satisfied with the results of the procedure. 1 patient (2%) requested removal of the filler by dissolving it at the time of follow up. Follow up ranged from 1 month to 11 months. Filler deposits remained stable over the period of follow up as confirmed by standard photography and ultrasound examination.
Conclusion: High resolution ultrasound examination for nonsurgical rhinoplasty is safe and effective. It offers a unique opportunity to assess anatomic variables in real-time and helps to optimize the safety and precision of nasal filler injections. Further investigation can better delineate best practices for use of ultrasound in nonsurgical rhinoplasty.
Declaraciones
¿Ha recibido algún tipo de financiamiento para realizar su investigación sobre esta temática?
No
¿Ha recibido algún pago, honorario u otra compensación por su trabajo acerca de esta investigación?
No
¿Tiene vínculos financieros con alguna entidad que podría llegar a competir estrechamente con los medicamentos, materiales o instrumentos tratados en su investigación?
No
¿Posee o ha solicitado una patente relacionada a los materiales, productos o instrumentos utilizados en su investigación?
No
Este trabajo no cuenta con el apoyo de ningún financiamiento directo o indirecto. El autor asume plena responsabilidad sobre el mismo.