From the Guidelines
Piezo ultrasound rhinoplasty is the recommended surgical technique for nose reshaping due to its precision, reduced trauma to surrounding tissues, and faster recovery times. This method utilizes piezoelectric ultrasonic instruments to cut or reshape nasal bones without damaging adjacent soft tissues, blood vessels, or mucosa, as seen in the use of piezoelectric surgery in maxillary sinus elevation to preserve the integrity of the blood vessel and membrane 1. The selective cutting ability of piezo ultrasound rhinoplasty allows for more controlled and accurate modifications to the nasal structure, which is particularly beneficial for patients requiring precise bone work, especially in cases needing subtle refinements or corrections of asymmetries.
Some key advantages of piezo ultrasound rhinoplasty include:
- More precise bone cutting
- Reduced trauma to surrounding tissues
- Less bruising
- Potentially faster recovery times
- Less post-operative swelling and bruising compared to conventional rhinoplasty techniques The use of piezoelectric surgery has been shown to dramatically reduce membrane perforation and intraoperative bleeding, as noted by Wallace et al 1. Patients typically experience a faster recovery, with most wearing a nasal splint for about a week, avoiding strenuous activities for 2-3 weeks, and allowing 6-12 months for final results to develop as swelling completely subsides.
The precision of piezo ultrasound rhinoplasty is crucial in avoiding complications, such as those related to the vascularization of the maxillary sinus area, which is guaranteed by three main arteries, subdivisions of the maxillary artery: the infraorbital artery, the posterior lateral nasal artery, and the posterior superior alveolar artery 1. The utilization of piezoelectric surgery rather than traditional manual tools can help preserve the integrity of these blood vessels and surrounding tissues, leading to better outcomes and reduced morbidity. The use of piezo ultrasound rhinoplasty can significantly improve the quality of life for patients undergoing nose reshaping surgery, with reduced recovery time and less post-operative discomfort.
From the Research
Overview of Piezo Ultrasound Rhinoplasty
- Piezo ultrasound rhinoplasty is a surgical technique that utilizes piezoelectric tools for osteoplasty or osteotomy, offering a safer and more controlled approach compared to traditional methods 2.
- This technique is considered a reliable and safe method for rhinoplasty, with favorable outcomes in terms of immediate postoperative morbidities 2.
Pain Management in Rhinoplasty
- Studies have shown that rhinoplasty is typically associated with mild pain, even when osteotomies are included in the procedure 3, 4.
- Researchers have proposed multifaceted pain control programs to manage postoperative pain and avoid overprescribing narcotics 4.
- The use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) has been found to be an acceptable and safe alternative to opioids for postoperative analgesia in rhinoplasty 5.
- A standardized regimen for preoperative and postoperative analgesic prescribing patterns in rhinoplasty has been suggested, including the use of acetaminophen, celecoxib, and gabapentin 6.
Opioid Use in Rhinoplasty
- Studies have found that patients undergoing rhinoplasty tend to use fewer opioids than prescribed, with a mean consumption of 6-8 tablets 3, 4.
- Researchers have suggested that surgeons can limit rhinoplasty opioid prescriptions to around 7 pills and achieve sufficient pain control in most patients 3.
- The use of opioids after rhinoplasty has been found to be associated with adverse effects such as drowsiness, nausea, and constipation 4.