Computer Imaging Helpful or Misleading for Rhinoplasty? (photo)

I strongly advise you to be wary of the
computerized images that are projected for the results of your nose job. While
this technology can be helpful in assessing how a refined side-profile may
look, and though I myself sometimes offer its use to my patients, computer
imaging can indeed be misleading and a bit inaccurate. I suggest that you take
the generated idea of your operated nose with a grain of salt, with the
understanding that your actual results may not be identical to those that you
see on screen. Instead, focus your attention on working closely with your
surgeon and clearly expressing your goals to him or her. You should feel fully
comfortable and confident while working together to realize an ideal nose that
is in line with your surrounding facial features.

Digital imaging for Rhinoplasties can be very helpfull if used properly. I have my opinions on this and I think there are great advantages of digital imaging and virtual surgery. Take a look at the editorial i've written, I think it may answer some of your questions. James P. Bonaparte, MD, MSc, FRCSCAssistant Professor, Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck SurgeryOtolaryngology – Head and Neck SurgeryFacial Plastic and Reconstructive SurgeryOttawa, Ontario, Canada

    There are several imaging software systems on the web that will allow you to morph yourself.  However, this does not factor in scarring or your healing and tissue responses to maneuvers executed during rhinoplasty.  There is no need for nasal packing.

Video imaging is a great communication tool between a patient and their Facial Plastic Surgeon. If used conservatively by an experienced surgeon it can give you a very good idea of what your results will likely be. In inexperienced hands, it can also show you results that are unrealistic. Your profile, front and base view should be simulated without too much difficulty. It is important to note that this is a communication tool and not a guarantee of results. With regard to packing, I never use nasal packing and know very few surgeons that still do. You should be fine without nasal packing. I hope this information is helpful.Stephen Weber MD, FACS

Rhinoplasty with computer imaging is great marketing tool but that is not usually what the patient gets. I use 35 years of before and after photos of real patients. You want to see not what someone can do on a computer but on real patients like you!

I use video imaging on all patients interested in rhinoplasty.  It allows me to understand what the patient is after and allows me to demonstrate any limitations of the operation.

Computer imaging is simply a useful tool to help in the communication process prior to undergoing elective cosmetic rhinoplasty surgery.  Computer imaging does work best from the side profile. Computer imaging for the frontal profile can be performed, but patients need to understand that it is morphing facial features which is not as accurate as shaving a hump down from the side profile.  With regards to nasal packing, most competent rhinoplasty surgeons quit using this nasal packing over 30 years ago.  Nasal packing is no longer needed unless there is a severe nose bleed.

Computer imaging can be a very valuable tool in rhinoplasty but it depends significantly on who is doing the imaging and how realistic the proposed changes are. That issue aside, imaging is really a communication tool that creates a dialogue between the doctor and patient to understand what rhinoplasty can and cannot do. Patients are often understandably anxious to see predicted images but it is important to understand that is not a guarantee of the final result and the most unreliable aspect of imaging in rhinoplasty is the frontal view.

Great question! The imaging tool is just that a TOOL! Ask for a guarantee to the image appearance to what you will get. You CAN NOT get one. The image is only to give an idea of how you MIGHT look!!! See before and after photos do not rely on a two dimensional computer to dictate your results. The process of biologic healing occurs in all surgery and this can not be predicted via a computer. If or when I have used the imaging app I ALWAYS state to the patient , "this is NOT how you are going to appear. It is only a possible result of the operation. There is NO guarantee to results depicted here."

Imaging software is an excellent tool.  The surgeon can communicate to the patient what he thinks he can do and you can communicate back as to whether it is in line with your wishes.  A good surgeon will create images that he/she believes can actually be accomplished and will not just show you what you want to get your money.  Any serious rhinoplasty surgeon will have complete imaging software.  Aside from some of the older surgeons who will literally draw you a new nose, I would hesitate to use a surgeon who hasn't invested the time and money into properly using a nasal imaging software package.

Nasal packing is not a necessary part of rhinoplasty except with only very rare exception.  Occasionally in trauma cases it is needed.  It is also terribly uncomfortable both in your nose and especially during its removal.