Cosmetic rhinoplasty: radiological features.

The usual radiologic postoperative appearance of the bony nasal pyramid following a typical cosmetic rhinoplasty is demonstrated, and possible atypical sequelae are discussed. More specifically, the sites of the osteotomies performed as part of this surgical procedure are diagrammatically illustrated. It is believed that because of the increasing popularity of rhinoplastic operations, it is timely to acquaint radiologists with the postsurgical stigmata which, though minor, might be erroneously interpreted as resulting from accidental trauma or other pathologic processes. Beyond academic considerations, potential medicolegal implications also exist. A brief historical overview is included.