Evaluating the Safety of Rhinoplasty in Smokers

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Otolaryngology
• Wound Healing Research

Background:

• Smoking negatively impacts tissue perfusion and wound healing, crucial factors in rhinoplasty outcomes.
• While the nose has a rich blood supply, postoperative complications in smokers remain a concern.
• This study evaluates if smoking necessitates a contraindication for rhinoplasty, comparing outcomes between smokers and nonsmokers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine if active smoking is a contraindication for rhinoplasty.
• To compare infection and revision rates in smokers versus nonsmokers undergoing rhinoplasty.
• To assess the safety and efficacy of rhinoplasty in smokers with proper perioperative management.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 1884 open rhinoplasty cases (2014-2022) with over 12 months follow-up.
• Patients classified as active smokers, former smokers, or nonsmokers.
• Analysis of infection and revision rates, with statistical comparisons between groups.

Main Results:

• No significant differences in revision rates (3.8% smokers vs. 3.3% nonsmokers) or postoperative infections were observed.
• Smokers had a slightly higher rate of cellulitis requiring antibiotics (3.8% vs. 1.6%), resolving without long-term issues.
• Overall, complication rates were comparable between smokers and nonsmokers, indicating similar safety profiles.

Conclusions:

• Active smoking is not an absolute contraindication for rhinoplasty.
• Rhinoplasty outcomes are similar for smokers and nonsmokers when appropriate perioperative care is provided.
• Smoking cessation is advisable but may not be mandatory for successful rhinoplasty results.