An Historical Perspective on Saddle Nose

Saddle nose is a condition in which the bridge of the nose has collapsed, causing a loss of height and giving it a sunken look. The main cause of this condition is trauma to the nose, although there are other causes as well. This includes medical conditions like leprosy, congenital syphilis and relapsing polychondritis to name a few. Saddle nose can also be the result of drug abuse. The damage can be repaired with saddle nose rhinoplasty.

Ancient Rhinoplasty

Modern technological advances in medicine have contributed to the improvement of many medical procedures including rhinoplasty. What is interesting is that these advances have been built on a foundation established during ancient times.

About 30 centuries ago, diagnosis and treatment of nasal deformities was recorded on papyrus in Ancient Egypt. In 1862, a gentleman by the name of Edwin Smith purchased the document and it became known as The Edwin Smith Surgical Papyrus. This has been called the most important pre-Greek document in the history of science.

This historical scroll reveals the extent of the incredible medical knowledge of ancient Egyptians. Among that knowledge is the documented diagnosis of certain fractures, wounds, injuries, dislocations and tumors, including their prognosis and treatment. It also documents repair of saddle nose, although that term was not used in that era.

Documentation of nasal reconstruction also appears in the Sushruta Samhita, written around 800 BC. This important thesis on medicine is one of few surviving documents and has been considered to be a foundational aspect of Ayurveda, which is a traditional medicine system of the East.

Early Foundation of Today’s Nose Surgery

Tagliacozzi of Bologna, Italy, also documented nasal reconstruction in the 16^th century. So far, this seems to be the last certain record of the art and science of rhinoplasty until the 19^th century. In the 1840s, surgeons tackled the reconstruction of saddle nose. One such pioneer in the field was the German Surgeon Johann Friedrich Dieffenbach. Dr. Dieffenbach was a specialist in skin transplantation and plastic surgery. He is credited for establishing many of the techniques used today in rhinoplasty and maxillofacial surgery.

Saddle Nose Surgery Now

The nose is a very prominent feature of your face and a deformity like saddle nose can have a negative impact on your self-confidence as well as your appearance. Surgery to correct the scooped outlook of your nose can do wonders toward restoring your well-being. Discussing your options for repair is the first step in acquiring the nose you want to have.

Dr. Maurice Khosh has unparalleled expertise in rhinoplasty. He is dual board-certified in plastic surgery and masterful in creating outstanding results. Contact his office today to schedule your consultation.