Self-image, self-esteem, anxiety, and functional capacity in patients undergoing open-structure rhinoplasty

Background

Rhinoplasty may improve negative psychological aspects, such as mild to moderate body dysmorphic disorder; however, the repercussions on the self-image and quality of life of patients after the procedure are unknown.

Objective

To evaluate self-image, self-esteem, anxiety, and functional capacity of patients undergoing open-structure rhinoplasty.

Methods

A primary, analytical, clinical, longitudinal, and prospective study was conducted, which included 30 female patients, aged between 18 and 50 years with elongated nose and nasal hump, who underwent open and structured rhinoplasty. All procedures were performed by a team from the Rhinology DCP/Unifesp. The Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale - EPM, BDSS, BDD-YBOCS, SF-36, SRQ-20, and STAI (T/E) questionnaires were administered before the surgery and at 6, 12, and 18 months after surgery.

Results

The results showed statistically significant differences in the Rosenberg scale - EPM (p = 0.017), BDSS (p < 0.001), BDD (p = 0.006), SF-36 (p = 0.041), SRQ-20 (p = 0.012), and STAI-T (p = 0.001) scores in general analyses. Additionally, the statistically significant changes persisted in various stratified postoperative periods. In the qualitative analysis, there was only statistical significance for the classification of the BDSS score, where the “Absent” (absence of body dysmorphism) index increased from 70.0% in the preoperative state to 96.7% in 18 months postoperatively. The “Present” (presence of body dysmorphism) index fell from 30.0% to 3.3% in the same period (p = 0.001).

Conclusion

Open-structure rhinoplasty improved the patients’ self-image, self-esteem, anxiety, and mental health.