Evaluation of the Effects of Using Buccal Fat Pad on Dorsum Changes: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Background: Irregularity of the dorsum is one of the common complications in rhinoplasty. Today, various methods are used to correct the irregularity of the dorsum. This study was conducted to determine the effects of using a buccal fat pad (BFP) on dorsum changes. Methods: In this randomized clinical trial, 20 patients undergoing primary rhinoplasty with the open technique were randomly assigned to the intervention and control groups. In the intervention group, a layer of buccal fat was placed on the dorsum and fixed after the end of the osteotomy and before the suture of the skin. In the control group, the dorsum region was sutured without the use of the buccal fat. Both groups were followed for six months and assessed regarding changes in the dorsum and satisfaction with dorsum aesthetics. Results: In the intervention and control groups, the mean age of patients was 26.60 ± 3.92 and 25.90 ± 4.38 years, respectively (P = 0.711). In terms of gender, 70% and 80% in the intervention and control groups were women, respectively. The frequencies of nasal asymmetry, nasal depression, dorsum narrowing, step, and nasal width in the intervention and control groups were 20% and 50% (P = 0.350). The mean score of patient satisfaction and surgeon satisfaction with the beauty of the bridge of the nose in the intervention group was significantly higher than that of the control group (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Using BFP on the dorsum during primary rhinoplasty, in addition to reducing changes in the dorsum, increased the satisfaction of dorsum beauty.