Rabbit model for the study of nasal tip plasty: a comparative cephalometric analysis after rhinoplasty

Background Open rhinoplasty and septoplasty have emerged as popular surgical techniques for both functional and aesthetic procedures. To study open rhinoplasty with or without septoplasty, the use of animals is necessary. However, no reports have been published on radiologic methods for evaluating rhinoplasty or nasal tip plasty in animals using cephalometry. In this study, a validated model of open rhinoplasty and septoplasty was utilized in rabbits to establish radiographic guidelines for assessing the degree of tip plasty in these animals. Methods Eight adult New Zealand rabbits were used to establish an autologous septal extension graft (SEG) model. The rabbits underwent concurrent submucosal septal resection and open rhinoplasty. The SEG was implanted using nasal septal cartilage. To evaluate the results of nasal tip plasty, lateral-view X-ray images were obtained preoperatively, as well as 2 days, 2 months, and 12 months postoperatively. Results This open rhinoplasty rabbit model appears to be a practical tool for studying open rhinoplasty and tip plasty, demonstrating statistically significant results following SEG implantation. Furthermore, it is suitable for training purposes, specifically for the submucosal resection of septal cartilage. Conclusions This study presents a statistical analysis of the long-term (1-year) postoperative results of SEG implantation, using experimental procedures like those utilized in humans. Through a cephalometric comparison of rabbit noses, the effect of various SEG and tip plasty methods on the rabbit nose can be objectively measured.