Global perspective in reconstructive rhinoplasty - unique challenges from overseas

Abstract

Reconstructive rhinoplasty, beyond its aesthetic role, is vital for the restoration of form and function in low-resource settings. Low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), especially in sub-Saharan Africa, remain critically under-resourced, with fewer than one plastic surgeon per 100,000 population and pronounced rural-urban disparities. Traditional outreach vertical models provide short-term relief but often lack continuity. Diagonal models, with integrated training and outcome monitoring, have demonstrated greater sustainability. Additional consideration is required for rhinoplasty procedures that account for cultural aesthetic norms and regional anatomical variations, as these are associated with higher patient satisfaction and better community uptake, highlighting the importance of culturally appropriate care in global surgical outreach. This narrative review aims to (1) highlight LMIC-specific challenges, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa; (2) compare surgical outreach models; (3) propose sustainable capacity building strategies, and (4) review culturally specific rhinoplasty techniques. As culturally specific rhinoplasty grows on a global scale, the result of locally empowered rhinoplasty surgeons in LMICs through diagonal partnership models and long-term skills transfer will result in improved patient care access. Investment in training, tele-mentorship, and metric-driven follow-up is essential to improving surgical equity and outcomes.

Keywords

Global surgery / global rhinoplasty / reconstructive rhinoplasty / global surgical training / culturally specific rhinoplasty / ethnic rhinoplasty

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