Comparison of Surgical Outcomes According to Applied Different Tensile Forces in Asian Rhytidectomy

INTRODUCTION: Currently, the use of the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) is a major trend for the longevity of rhytidectomy. OBJECTIVE: We aimed to compare changes in outcomes over 1 year according to the degree of tension (Newton, N) applied to the composite flap during deep-plane rhytidectomy or composite rhytidectomy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study included 70 patients, divided into 2 groups. Group 1 comprised 45 patients who underwent composite flap fixation under maximal tension. Group 2 consisted of 25 patients who underwent surgery with minimal tension on the composite flap. Tension applied to the flap was measured intraoperatively using a tensiometer. All patients also underwent facial photographic assessment for objective evaluation. The patients' medical records and photographs were retrospectively reviewed. RESULTS: In both groups, tension in the lower face and neck was statistically significant (P<0.05). However, there was no statistical significance between the 2 groups for any of the details (P>0.05). Also, there was no difference between the 2 groups in the subjective satisfaction survey of patients regarding the surgery (P>0.05). CONCLUSION: In Asian rhinoplasty, modest tensile forces applied to the face and neck yielded similar surgical outcomes, regardless of force magnitude within the specified range.