Medical Journal of The Islamic Republic of Iran (MJIRI)

  Abstract

  Background: Cosmetic rhinoplasty is now carried out increasingly in an attempt

  to solve the psychological and social problems of people who are discontent with

  their nose. Little is known about either the psychological status of persons who seek

  rhinoplasty or potential psychological changes following surgery. The challenge that

  faces surgeons, is how to identify, before surgical intervention those patients who

  may have a poor outcome in terms of psychological adjustment despite a technically

  satisfactory result.

  Methods: Atotal of 96 patients (84 women and 12 men) who were seeking cosmetic

  rhinoplasty were selected and completed an adopted expectation questionnaire

  and SCL-90-R, a 90 item self-report symptom inventory which measures 9 primary

  symptom dimensions. It is designed primarily to reflect the psychological symptom

  patterns of psychiatric and medical patients.

  Results: The majority of the patients reported that their noses made them selfconscious,

  and thought the rhinoplasty would change their lives. Interpersonal sensitivity

  and anxiety were the most reported symptoms in SCL-90-R, followed by obsessive-

  compulsive symptoms and depression.

  Conclusion: The findings of this study enhance our understanding of psychological

  factors in seeking rhinoplasty and provide insight into the surgical-psychological

  management of these patients.