T Keck1, S Kühnemann, J Ehrat, G Meder, R W Dahlbender. 1. Abteilung für HNO-Heilkunde, Kopf-, Hals- und Plastische Gesichtschirurgie, Elisabethinen-Krankenhaus, Akademisches Lehrkrankenhaus der Medizinischen Universität Graz, Elisabethinergasse 14, 8020, Graz, Österreich. kecktill@aol.com
Abstract
BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to acquire psychometric parameters in patients desiring functional-aesthetic nasal surgery. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Over a 1-year period, 101 patients were consecutively examined at the ENT department of the University of Ulm. Septoplasty or septorhinoplasty was indicated in all cases. The acquisition of psychometric data was performed by means of standardised and validated questionnaires. Data relating to anxiety, depression, private and public self-awareness as well as general satisfaction with oneself and in particular with one's nose was collected. RESULTS: Patients demonstrated greater levels of fear, self-awareness in public and dissatisfaction with their nose. The greatest expectation concerning the outcome of the operation was the improvement of nasal obstruction. Altering the outward appearance of the nose was a secondary consideration. CONCLUSION: The screening presented here enables ENT surgeons to identify possible "problem" patients before functional-aesthetic nasal surgery.
BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to acquire psychometric parameters in patients desiring functional-aesthetic nasal surgery. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Over a 1-year period, 101 patients were consecutively examined at the ENT department of the University of Ulm. Septoplasty or septorhinoplasty was indicated in all cases. The acquisition of psychometric data was performed by means of standardised and validated questionnaires. Data relating to anxiety, depression, private and public self-awareness as well as general satisfaction with oneself and in particular with one's nose was collected. RESULTS:Patients demonstrated greater levels of fear, self-awareness in public and dissatisfaction with their nose. The greatest expectation concerning the outcome of the operation was the improvement of nasal obstruction. Altering the outward appearance of the nose was a secondary consideration. CONCLUSION: The screening presented here enables ENT surgeons to identify possible "problem" patients before functional-aesthetic nasal surgery.