From the Research
The percentage of rhinoplasty procedures resulting in nasal collapse is approximately 1-5%, though rates vary depending on surgical technique and patient factors. Nasal collapse, also known as nasal valve collapse, can occur when too much cartilage is removed during surgery or when the structural support of the nose is compromised. Risk factors include thin skin, weak cartilage, previous rhinoplasty procedures, and aggressive surgical techniques. Patients with higher risk should discuss preventative measures with their surgeon, such as cartilage grafting to reinforce the nasal structure. Symptoms of nasal collapse include difficulty breathing, a pinched appearance of the middle or upper third of the nose, and a feeling of nasal obstruction, particularly during inhalation. Most cases of nasal collapse can be corrected with revision rhinoplasty using cartilage grafts from the septum, ear, or rib to restore structural support. Prevention is ideal, which is why modern rhinoplasty techniques focus on preserving or reinforcing nasal structure rather than aggressive reduction.
Some key points to consider when evaluating the risk of nasal collapse after rhinoplasty include:
- The importance of preserving nasal structure and support during surgery, as emphasized in a study on complications in rhinoplasty 1
- The use of cartilage grafting and other techniques to reinforce the nasal structure and prevent collapse, as discussed in a review of surgical approaches to internal nasal valve collapse 2
- The need for careful patient selection and counseling, particularly for those with higher risk factors such as thin skin or weak cartilage, as noted in a study on concomitant rhinoplasty and septal perforation repair 3
- The potential for revision rhinoplasty to correct nasal collapse and restore functional and aesthetic results, as described in a study on correction of septal perforation and nasal airway repair 4
Overall, while the exact percentage of rhinoplasty procedures resulting in nasal collapse may vary, the key to minimizing this risk is careful surgical technique, patient selection, and a focus on preserving and reinforcing nasal structure.