Nasal Function Assessment in Facial Plastic Surgery
Summary
Accurate evaluation of nasal function is central to facial plastic surgery, informing both surgical planning and post-operative outcomes. Surgeons employ a combination of objective airflow measurements and patient-centred symptom scores to gauge the impact of anatomical refinements on breathing. Key anatomical determinants include the internal nasal valve region, septal alignment and turbinate position, each influencing resistance and airflow distribution. Objective techniques such as rhinomanometry and acoustic rhinometry quantify resistance and cross-sectional area, while validated questionnaires capture patient perception of obstruction and quality of life. Integrating dynamic endoscopic grading with computational modelling has refined our understanding of valve collapse and flow turbulence. Advances in grafting techniques, implantable supports and digital imaging have further enhanced the precision of functional correction, enabling tailored intervention that balances aesthetic refinement with airway performance.
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Nasal Function Assessment in Facial Plastic Surgery publication trend
The graph below shows the total number of articles in nasal function assessment in facial plastic surgery across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).
Technical terms
Internal nasal valve: The narrowest anterior segment of the nasal airway, formed by the septum, upper lateral cartilage and inferior turbinate, critical for airflow resistance.
Rhinomanometry: A method to measure nasal airway resistance and airflow by recording pressure–flow relationships during breathing.
Acoustic rhinometry: A technique using reflected sound waves to calculate cross-sectional area and volume of the nasal cavity.
NOSE scale: Patient-reported Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation questionnaire assessing severity and impact of nasal blockage.
SNOT-22: Sino-Nasal Outcome Test-22, a quality-of-life instrument evaluating functional and emotional aspects of sinonasal disorders.
Spreader graft: Cartilage segment placed between septum and upper lateral cartilage to widen the internal nasal valve angle and improve airflow.
References
- Clinical effectiveness of septoplasty versus medical management for nasal airways obstruction: multicentre, open label, randomised controlled trial. The BMJ (2023).
- The internal nasal valve: a validated grading system and operative guide. European Archives of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology (2018).
- Assessment of Functional Rhinoplasty with Spreader Grafting Using Acoustic Rhinomanometry and Validated Outcome Measurements. Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Global Open (2018).
- Absorbable Implant to Treat Nasal Valve Collapse. Facial Plastic Surgery (2017).
- Nasal Valve: anatomy and physiology. Brazilian Journal of Otorhinolaryngology (2009).
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