Effectiveness of Autologous Fat Grafting in Scaring After Augmentation Rhinoplasty

Abstract

Background: Augmentation rhinoplasty is a widely popularity operation in Asia, but capsular contracture and retractile scars formation are frequent negative consequences, due to various properties of the implants. Lots of studies have reported improvements in scars after autologous fat grafting, but the mechanisms are still unclear. The aim of this study is to verify whether autologous fat grafting could treat the scaring after augmentation rhinoplasty for both functional and aesthetic purposes.

Methods: From January 2011 to May 2017, 9 patients (8 females and 1 male) who suffered capsular contracture and retractile scars after augmentation rhinoplasty were treated with autologous fat grafting in the department and these patients were discussed in this study. Preoperative examinations and postoperative follow-up included use of photo documentations and the patient and observer scar assessment scale (POSAS) at 12 to 24 months.

Results: All 9 patients achieved nasal aesthetic and functional improvement, and reduction for pain, stiff, irregular, relief, and pliability (P < 0.05) in POSAS scores was statistically significant.

Conclusion: Capsular contracture and retractile scar after augmentation rhinoplasty were severe complication for patients; autologous fat grafting is a minimally invasive and effective treatment for the scaring for both functional and aesthetic purposes.