Beyond aesthetics: A case report of pneumosinus dilatans frontalis presenting with headache

The Pneumosinus Dilatans (PSD) Frontalis is an uncommon condition characterized by abnormal enlargement of the aerated frontal sinus with normal thickness sinus walls. The major complication is aesthetics; however, some cases present with sinus obstructive symptoms.

A 32-year-old male presented with complaints of an asymmetrical protrusion on his forehead, as well as recurrent headaches. No signs of sinusitis were detected by periodic examination. Computed tomography demonstrated the presence of large frontal PSD. Due to aesthetic concerns, the patient was selected for forehead aesthetic surgery. The operation was performed through a bi-coronal incision to expose the supraorbital areas. The anterior wall of the right frontal sinus was removed, divided into 2 sections, and fixed into the proper location, and then the sinus outflow was widened. An asymmetric brow lift was then performed to correct the asymmetric brow position. Good results were attained, the patient's headache was resolved, and he was pleased with his appearance.

Although the most prevalent complaint of patients with PSD is aesthetic, some patients exhibit concomitant symptoms, including headaches and sinus obstruction. The constriction and partial obstruction of the sinus ostium may cause sinus cavity hypertrophy. Therefore, re-establishing sufficient drainage for the sinus by opening the sinus ostium is recommended during the reconstruction of the forehead's natural architecture to reduce headaches and recurrence of sinus hypertrophy.

A combination of a bi-coronal approach regarding aesthetic surgery and sinus outflow widening achieves a desirable outcome that gives a good short-term follow-up result.