Considerations before rhinoplasty

Patient evaluation and selection for aesthetic facial surgery and rhinoplasty in particular goes beyond assessment of anatomical indications. The selection of appropriate candidates involves an understanding of the patient's motivations for the procedure, expectations for the surgical outcome, and ego strength for tolerating the stress of operative intervention. The patient interview must be structured to give the surgeon ample information to determine the psychological and emotional stability of the candidate. Psychiatric consultation may be required if evidence is uncovered indicating psychiatric illness. Time spent informing the patient preoperatively will pay off great dividends in the postoperative period. If patient dissatisfaction does occur, validate and address the patient's concerns with a nondefensive posture.