Use of hyaluronic acid in the correction of contour asymmetries following rhinoplasty

Abstract

Background: Some of the minor post-rhinoplasty asymmetries and irregularities may be treated with soft-tissue filler injections. Without the need of general anaesthesia and operating theatre, immediate results can be obtained using low-cost fillers. Hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers gained popularity in the correction of small nasal defects or concavities. Methods: A total of 12 patients presenting with contour asymmetry following rhinoplasty were treated with HA between January 2010 and May 2011. HA was injected superficial to perichondrium or periosteum. Both patients and surgeons evaluated the results using a definitive graduated satisfaction scale ranging from 1 to 10. Patients were followed up for up to 12 months. Results: No significant side effects were reported. All patients were satisfied with the filling procedure, despite being aware of the temporary nature of the procedure. Conclusions: HA fillings do not persist permanently. Our experience showed that HA filling has to be repeated every year. We conclude that HA injection is a minimally invasive method suitable for correction of minor defects after rhinoplasty. Level of Evidence: Level V, therapeutic study. © 2012 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.