Rhinoplasty model in rabbit

Rhinoplasty has become one of the most frequently requested and performed surgical procedures for both functional and aesthetic purposes. As an attention-attracting prominence, even the slightest disfigurement of the nose causes serious disturbance to the patient before or after the operation. Functional problems also cause discomfort. For these reasons, postrhinoplasty complications are regarded as challenging problems for both for the patient and the surgeon. Some cases necessitate grafts for better aesthetic or functional outcome, but there is still controversy over the preference for autogenous or allogenous grafts, both for primary and secondary cases. Evaluation of autogenous and allogenous grafts implanted in the nose is quite challenging for several reasons, including the possibility of unpredictable complications leading to catastrophic disfigurements, the impossibility of obtaining pathologic specimens, and the need for a long follow-up period for stable results. An experimental model for rhinoplasty, fulfilling the need for precise evaluation, was planned and performed after anatomical observation of the noses of rabbits.

Fifteen adult New Zealand rabbits were used, five for the anatomical evaluation and 10 for the rhinoplasty model. Computed tomographic images and measurements were obtained before and after the surgical processes.

This experimental model for rhinoplasty has not been reported in any previous studies. This study demonstrates the surgical anatomy of the rabbit in detail and constitutes a guide for researchers as a convenient experimental model for rhinoplasty, with all stages similar to those performed on humans.