(0241) Patient Satisfaction Post-Rhinoplasty Procedure Using the Rhinoplasty Outcome Evaluation Questionnaire

Introduction: Rhinoplasty, being a challenging surgery, aims to restore the function of the nose as well as improve the quality of one’s life. More recent times have increased the trend of less invasive procedures instead of more invasive procedures. Patient satisfaction is the most vital factor of the success of this procedure.

Methods: We included 371 rhinoplasties conducted at local centers in Western Maharashtra from 2018 to 2022 and used the Rhinoplasty Outcome Evaluation (ROE) questionnaire to study the patients' satisfaction level. Out of 371, 293 patients participated in our study. Rhinoplasty was performed in the open technique in all cases. The ROE questionnaire was filled pre-procedure and then 6 months post-procedure. Data analysis was done using SSPS software.

Results: Aesthetic at 36.92% (n = 137), functional 40.97% (n = 152), and a combination of both in 22.10% (n = 82) were the primary reasons for rhinoplasty in our patients. The mean ROE score of all patients pre-procedure was 34.7 (males: 37.1, females 30.7) and the mean score post-procedure was 81.1 (males 79.6, females 83.8) at 6 months with no statistical differences (CI 18.13 - 14.71, p = 0.829). However, both genders showed a statistically significant improvement between the pre-procedure and post-procedure scores (mean difference = 47.1., CI 61.31 - 37.67, p < 0.01), indicating an overall positive satisfaction level after surgery. Patients’ satisfaction level was inversely proportional to their level of understanding and knowledge of the procedure; this difference was statistically significant (CI 6.61-11.03, p < 0.01). There was no statistically significant difference in the before and after surgery ROE scores among patients operated by different surgeons as well (p = 0.93).

Conclusions: Our study shows that rhinoplasty has proven benefits in terms of aesthetic and functional outcomes. The ROE questionnaire proves to be a valid tool for estimating patient satisfaction in our population. There is a need for further training and education of surgeons in Southeast Asia to improve the functional and aesthetic disabilities of nasal deformities.