# Evaluation of Nasal Reconstruction With Local Flaps Using the Translated Version of the FACE-Q Scale in a Local Language

## TL;DR

This study evaluates patient satisfaction after nasal reconstruction using a translated FACE-Q scale in a local language.

## Contribution

The study introduces the use of a locally translated FACE-Q scale to assess patient satisfaction in nasal reconstruction.

## Key findings

- Fifty-one nasal defects were reconstructed in 23 patients, with the nasal tip being the most commonly involved subunit.
- Patients showed significant improvement in their FACE-Q scores six months post-surgery.
- The study demonstrates the effectiveness of using the FACE-Q scale in a local language for outcome assessment.

## Abstract

Introduction

Attaining a nasal reconstruction that is functionally and aesthetically pleasing is a challenge to many reconstructive surgeons worldwide. Since the concept of the ‘subunit principle’ was laid down, many advancements have been devised in nasal reconstruction, but no proper evidence-based data is yet present in the literature regarding the satisfaction amongst patients after nasal reconstruction. In this study, we have evaluated the outcome after nasal reconstruction using a local language translation of FACE-Q scales.

Materials and methods

A total of 23 patients were operated on for nasal reconstruction in one or two stages during the period from September 2021 to December 2022, after assessing the cause, the subunit involved, and the type of nasal defect. The FACE-Q questionnaire was administered preoperatively and six months postoperatively to assess the satisfaction with outcomes among patients.

Results

Fifty-one nasal defects were reconstructed in 23 patients, out of which the nasal tip was the most commonly involved subunit. The defects were resurfaced with full-thickness skin grafts, V-Y advancements, deltopectoral flaps, nasolabial flaps, axial frontonasal flaps, and paramedian forehead flaps. Almost all the patients showed a significant improvement in their FACE-Q postoperative scales after the surgeries.

Conclusion

Nasal reconstruction, owing to its complex anatomy, has always been a subject of discussion. Comprehensive information about the outcome of nasal reconstruction can be measured using the FACE-Q scale, which is a patient-reported outcome assessment. The evaluation will always help the surgeon in regularly assessing and improving the outcome of surgery.