FACE-Q Scales Research Articles

Evaluation of Surgical Outcomes and Patient-reported Outcomes of Eyebrow Defect Repair with "Kite Flap".

There is no consensus on the surgical options for repairing mild-to-moderate eyebrow defects due to burns, trauma, and skin tumors, and the outcome of the surgery is unclear. In this study, the authors evaluated the surgical outcomes and patient-reported outcomes of eyebrow defect repair with the "kite flap" in a cross-sectional study. Case data and imaging data of twelve patients with eyebrow defects undergoing repair from July 2018 to June 2021 were retrospectively analyzed, and the surgical outcomes were statistically analyzed by the Face-Q subjective evaluation scale and the surgical objective evaluation scale. In the postoperative objective evaluation, 66.67% of the patients were "very satisfied," and the scores of the Face-Q scale for the assessment of appearance and psychosocial function were significantly improved compared with those of the preoperative period, with a statistically significant difference in the data changes (P<0.05). The study showed that the "kite flap" is an excellent surgical method for repairing mild-to-moderate defects of the eyebrow, and it can meet the requirements of both function and appearance after surgery.

Percutaneous External Fixation of Redistributed Orbital Fat in Transcutaneous Lower Eyelid Blepharoplasty.

While percutaneous external fixation has gained popularity in transconjunctival blepharoplasty due to its simplicity and minimal incision, internal fixation remains the standard approach in transcutaneous blepharoplasty. This study aims to assess the safety and effectiveness of percutaneous external fixation specifically in transcutaneous fat repositioning blepharoplasty. From May 2022 to December 2023, a consecutive cohort of 97 patients underwent this surgical technique. Building upon the principles of transconjunctival fat repositioning, the procedure involved a minimal incision targeting the muscle layer, a conservative release of the tear trough ligament, and the repositioning of fat secured with percutaneous external fixation. Surgical outcomes were evaluated using the Barton grading system and FACE-Q scales for patient-reported outcomes. Following a mean follow-up of 7.2 months (ranging from 6 to 17 months), a resolution of tear trough deformities and eyelid bags was achieved in over 92% of cases. Notably, significant improvements (P < 0.05) were observed in lower eyelid aesthetics as measured by the FACE-Q scale, with a concomitant enhancement in patients' social confidence (P < 0.05). Overall, patients expressed satisfaction with their decision to undergo the procedure (71.0±19.1). Complications necessitating revision surgery included isolated cases of hematoma evacuation, fat injection, excision of excess fat, and skin excision. External fixation in transcutaneous blepharoplasty is technically less complex and minimally invasive, effectively securing transposed fat pedicles safely, presenting a viable alternative to conventional fixation techniques.

Parotid Gland Suspension Combined with Rhytidectomy to Recontour the Lower Face and Neck Enlargement Caused by Benign Parotid Hypertrophy.

Lower face and neck aging and facial shape changes are usually caused by soft tissue descent. During lower face and neck enlargement, parotid hypertrophy is an important influence factor of morphologic changes in the periauricular regions. Most plastic surgery techniques greatly improve the shape of the lower face and neck, but ignore the manipulation of the parotid gland. We aimed to resolve the lower face and neck enlargement caused by parotid hypertrophy. Thus, we performed parotid gland suspension combined with rhytidectomy to improve the lower face and neck contour. This retrospective study recruited 22 patients who underwent parotid gland suspension combined with rhytidectomy from 2012 to 2020. The evaluation of patient outcomes was performed by selecting items from the FACE-Q scale. Surgical procedures involved parotid gland exposure and parotid fascia suspension. Patient-perceived age appraisal indicated a younger appearance with follow-ups for approximately 3-10year after the surgery (mean ± standard deviation - 5.53 ± 3.67). Patients had a high satisfaction level for facial appearance (67.15 ± 16.84), lower face (74.69 ± 21.22), and contour of the parotid gland areas of the neck (65.76 ± 23.62). The lower face and neck contours were narrowed and tightened. The parotid gland area showed a remarkable improvement after surgery. Parotid gland suspension combined with rhytidectomy obtained an outstanding improvement. This method can achieve a better lower face and neck contour, especially in patients with benign parotid hypertrophy or lower face and neck enlargement in periauricular regions. This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Combined treatment of atrophic scars using radiofrequency microneedling and hyaluronic acid fillers with subcision

Introduction. Atrophic scars may be associated with significant psychological stress and a substantial negative impact on quality of life. Despite the great relevance of the atrophic scars therapy, existing treatment methods do not always provide their complete elimination.Aim. To study the efficacy of combined therapy of atrophic scars with radiofrequency microneedling (RF-MN), subcision and hyaluronic acid filler injection.Materials and methods. Ten female patients aged 28–44 years with a clinical diagnosis of atrophic scars were randomly assigned to two groups. Group 1 received RF-MN alone, while Group 2 received a combination treatment comprising RF-MN, subcision, and hyaluronic acid injections. Clinical effectiveness was assessed using the Goodman-Baron scar rating scale and the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS). Ultrasound was used to determine the changes in dermal thickness. The volume of depressions and skin texture were measured using the Antera 3D®. The safety of the treatment was evaluated by recording adverse events.Results. The combined method demonstrated superior efficacy compared to RF-MN alone in the majority of efficacy parameters. In Group 2, a statistically significant reduction in Goodman-Baron scale was observed in 100% of patients (p = 0.026). 3D measurements of the face demonstrated a more pronounced improvement in skin texture in Group 2 relative to Group 1. Statistically significant changes (p = 0.027) in the Face-Q scale were exclusively observed in the group that received the combined treatment. Ultrasonic imaging demonstrated a restoration of dermal thickness following treatment. No serious adverse events were observed. Expected local adverse events (pain, erythema, swelling, and bruising) were mild and resolved spontaneously within 1–7 days.Conclusion. The combined treatment with RF-MN followed by subcision and hyaluronic acid filler injections demonstrated its efficacy in patients with atrophic scars.

Microliposuction and Radiofrequency Combined With Fat Grating as a New Method for Hybrid-Type Nasolabial Folds.

The hybrid-type nasolabial fold is a special, complex type of nasolabial fold with various causes, making it difficult to obtain an ideal effect with a single treatment. This study aimed to investigate the effect and complications of a comprehensive therapy combining microliposuction, radiofrequency, and fat grafting on hybrid-type nasolabial folds. Twenty-one patients aged 27 to 45 (mean: 34.71±5.41) years, who underwent the therapy for hybrid-type nasolabial folds were retrospectively analyzed. All patients were followed up for 12 months. Two independent observers conducted postoperative follow-ups at 1 week and 12 weeks. One week postoperatively, the hematoma, mass nodule, and skin scald ecchymosis scores were 1.24±0.43, 1.62±0.58, and 1.48±0.59, respectively. At 12 weeks, the scores of mass nodules and skin scald ecchymosis decreased (1.19±0.39 and 1.05±0.21, respectively) without obvious hematoma. The WSRS grade decreased from 4.33±0.47 to 2.19±0.39 (P<0.001), and the hybrid-type nasolabial folds significantly improved. The Face-Q scale score was 20.43±2.63 points (standard score: 85.12±10.95 points). 76.19% of the patients scored more than 80 points in the subjective Face-Q evaluation. Microliposuction and radiofrequency combined with fat grafting effectively treats hybrid-type nasolabial folds, resulting in high patient satisfaction. Most complications can be prevented, and optimal outcomes can be obtained by comprehensive surgical methods and correct procedures, which is thus worthy of clinical promotion.

Psychometric validation of the FACE-Q Aesthetics Satisfaction with Temples scale in individuals seeking minimally invasive treatment to improve temple hollowing.

The FACE-Q Aesthetics is used extensively to measure patient reported outcomes for minimally invasive and surgical facial aesthetic treatments. We recently developed a new FACE-Q scale to assess satisfaction with the appearance of the temples. The aim of this study was to field test the FACE-Q Satisfaction with Temples scale to examine its psychometric properties. The FACE-Q Satisfaction with Temples scale was administered to 171 adults (22 years or older) seeking minimally invasive treatment to improve temple hollowing as part of a clinical trial. The severity of temple hollowing was established through the clinician-reported Allergan Temple Hollowing scale (clinician-rated). The psychometric properties of the FACE-Q Satisfaction with Temples scale were established by testing Rasch Measurement Theory (RMT) assumptions and model fit; unidimensionality by principal component analysis; and construct validity by hypothesis testing. The study sample consisted of 171 adults (mean age 54.7 ± 9.9, range, 25-82 years). RMT analysis provided evidence for the scientific soundness of a 12-item Satisfaction with Temples scale. The data fit the Rasch model (χ2 = 20.47, df = 24, p = 0.67), all items had ordered thresholds, and good item fit. Scale reliability was high, with Person Separation Index and Cronbach alpha values with and without extremes ≥0.93. Principal component analysis revealed a single component with high factor coefficients. Construct validity was established as scores for the Satisfaction with Temples and Face Overall scales were correlated (r = 0.623, p < 0.001). The FACE-Q Satisfaction with Temples scale is a reliable and valid measure that can be used in clinical practice and research to measure outcomes following treatment for temple hollowing.

Clinical Efficacy of Mechanical Micronized Fat-Assisted Fat Grafting on Temporal Depression.

Temporal concavities result from reduced subcutaneous fat and bone structure variations, impacting facial aesthetics. Filling treatments, including autologous fat grafts, synthetic fillers, and biological materials, are used for enhancement. Autologous fat grafting is promising but limited by unpredictable fat absorption and nonstandardized procedures. This study aims to assess the clinical effectiveness of mechanical micronized fat in combination with autologous granular fat grafting for lipofilling in the correction of temporal deformities. Patients (n = 37, mean age = 37.48) with temporal concavity caused by aging and Inherently inadequate capacity were enrolled and divided into control group (n = 10) and study group (n = 9) according to different fat grafts. Control group received pure autologous granular fat, with an average volume of approximately 19.30 mL. In contrast, the study group used mechanical micronized fat along with autologous granular fat co-injection through an 18G needle with an average injection volume of about 18.89 mL. All autologous fat collected from patients' abdominal and thighs. Information, including postoperative clinical efficacy scored by various plastic surgeons for the comparison of preoperative and postoperative photos of patients, patient satisfaction, and complications between the two groups, was documented. Additionally, changes in patients' quality of life were evaluated using the FACE-Q scale. Six months after surgery, the efficacy of temporal filling in the study group (6.69 ± 0.64) was higher than the control group (6.37 ± 0.67) (P = 0.0048). The patient satisfaction was more prominent in the study group (6.28 ± 0.87) than in the control group (5.80 ± 0.71) (P = 0.0449). Differences between above two observation indicators were statistically significant (P < 0.05). The FACE-Q scale items, which assess psychological health, social functioning, and early life impact, showed higher scores in the study group both before the surgery (psychological health: 59.22 ± 3.53, social functioning: 64.75 ± 3.15) and 6 months after the surgery (psychological health: 69.44 ± 4.50, social functioning: 75.33 ± 3.81, early life impact: 74.21 ± 0.70) (P > 0.05). Notably, only one micronodule formation was detected among all patients. Mechanical micronized fat combined with autologous granular fat improve the clinical effect of treating concavity in temporal region, which is worthy of further promotion and application.

Free Flap Evaluation Following Reconstruction of Locally Advanced Squamous Cell Carcinoma of The Tongue

Background: Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) is a crucial component in the management of tongue-based locally advanced squamous cell carcinoma (LASCC) due to its ability to decrease tumor mass and facilitate free tissue transplantation. The utilization of adjuvant radiation and chemotherapy has been observed to decelerate the progression of post-operative tumor growth. Probability of free flap failure is elevated. Post-operative complications and the long-term functional outcomes of speaking, salivation, and swallowing determine the quality of free flaps. Methods: A retrospective review of tongue LASCC patients who underwent NAC followed by glossectomy and free tissue transfer from 2015 to 2018. Tongue functional outcomes of speaking, swallowing, and salivation were assessed using FACE-Q scale in 3 times follow-up period. Result: This study included 7 patients who underwent tongue reconstruction. Treatment modalities were based on tumor presentation, with 4 patients (57.1%) receiving Taxane, 5-Fluorouracil, and Paclitaxel/Doclitaxel (TPF), and 3 patients (42.1%) receiving Paclitaxel and 5-Fluorouracil (PF). Tongue reconstruction utilized the radial forearm free flap in 5 patients (71.4%) and the anterolateral thigh free flap in 2 patients (28.6%). Intraoperatively, NAC had no impact on the integrity of small and reliable donor vessels. Three patients died from tumor metastases after the second follow-up assessment, while one patient was lost to follow-up. The study found no significant association between chemotherapy dosage and free flap vitality (P = 0.629). FACE-Q assessments revealed moderate to low scores in speaking, eating, and drinking outcomes. Conclusion: Tongue reconstruction after NAC in LASCC patients remains a challenging procedure for surgeons. While the consideration of surgical difficulties due to damage of the donor vessels demands a more structured pre-operative plan. No correlation between the exposure of NAC or AR to free flap complication as well as functional outcome.

FACE-Q eye module for measuring patient-reported outcomes in blepharoplasty surgery: A validation study

This study aimed to conduct a linguistic validation of all FACE-Q eye module scales in German, and to evaluate the reliability and validity of the scales in patients with blepharoplasty.According to international recommendations, all FACE-Q scales and checklists were translated from English to German. Psychometric testing of blepharoplasty surgery-related scales of translated versions were administered to patients with blepharochalasis or dermatochalasis and a history of blepharoplasty surgery (n = 64; 11 scales) or no history of blepharoplasty surgery (n = 65; seven scales), and to a group of control subjects (n = 64; seven scales).Most of the subscales showed acceptable internal consistency, with Cronbach’s alphas ranging from 0.75 to 0.97. Intraclass correlation coefficients were high (0.70–0.92), indicating good reliability, with total values of 0.63 (95% CI 0.46–0.76) and 0.68 (95% CI 0.53–0.80) for the upper eyelid and social function scores, respectively. There was good discriminability between pre- and post-blepharoplasty patients and normal subjects (p < 0.05).The German-language version of the FACE-Q eye module is a successfully validated and helpful tool for assessing outcomes after blepharoplasty surgery, especially with respect to ‘satisfaction with overall facial appearance’, ‘psychological well-being, social function’, ‘decision satisfaction, outcome satisfaction’, and ‘early-life impact recovery’.

Establishing test-retest reliability and the smallest detectable change of FACE-Q Aesthetic Module scales

BACKGROUNDThe test re-test (TRT) reliability of FACE-Q Aesthetic scales has yet to be assessed. The aim of this study was to establish the TRT reliability of 17 FACE-Q Aesthetic scales, and to determine the smallest detectable change (SDC) that can be identified by these scales. METHODSData were collected from an online international sample (i.e., Prolific). Participants ≥20 years old, who had been to a dermatologist or plastic surgeon for a facial aesthetic treatment within the past 12 months were asked to provide demographic and clinical information and complete an online REDcap survey consisting of 17 FACE-Q Aesthetic scales. Participants were asked if they would be willing to complete the survey again in 7 days. Only participants who reported no important change in the scale construct and completed the re-test within 14 days were included. RESULTSA total of n=342 unique participants completed the TRT survey. The mean age of the sample was 36.6 (±11.5) years and 82.4% were female. With outlier data removed, all FACE-Q scales demonstrated an ICC>0.70 indicating ‘good’ TRT reliability. The standard error of measurement for included scales ranged from 3.37 – 11.87, corresponding to a range of SDCgroup from 0.95 to 3.23 and SDCind from 9.34 to 32.91. CONCLUSIONAll included FACE-Q scales demonstrated sufficient TRT reliability and stability overall after outlier data were removed. The authors provide values for the smallest detectable change for these scales.

Clinical efficacy of intradermal type I collagen injections in treating skin photoaging in patients from high-altitude areas

BACKGROUND Photoaging, a result of chronic sun exposure, leads to skin damage and pigmentation changes. Traditional treatments may have limitations in high-altitude areas like Yunnan Province. Intradermal Col Ι injections stimulate collagen production, potentially improving skin quality. This study aims to assess the efficacy and safety of this treatment for photoaging. AIM To evaluate the efficacy and safety of intradermal type Ι collagen (Col Ι) injection for treating photoaging. METHODS This prospective, self-controlled study investigated the impact of intradermal injections of Col Ι on skin photodamage in 20 patients from the Yunnan Province. Total six treatment sessions were conducted every 4 wk ± 3 d. Before and after each treatment, facial skin characteristics were quantified using a VISIA skin detector. Skin thickness data were assessed using the ultrasound probes of the Dermalab skin detector. The Face-Q scale was used for subjective evaluation of the treatment effect by the patients. RESULTS The skin thickness of the right cheek consistently increased after each treatment session compared with baseline. The skin thickness of the left cheek significantly increased after the third through sixth treatment sessions compared with baseline. The skin thickness of the right zygomatic region increased after the second to sixth treatment sessions, whereas that of the left zygomatic region showed a significant increase after the fourth through sixth treatment sessions. The skin thickness of both temporal regions significantly increased after the fifth and sixth treatment sessions compared with baseline (P &lt; 0.05). These findings were also supported by skin ultrasound images. The feature count for the red areas and wrinkle feature count decreased following the treatment (P &lt; 0.05). VISIA assessments also revealed a decrease in the red areas after treatment. The Face-Q-Satisfaction with Facial Appearance Overall and Face-Q-Satisfaction with Skin scores significantly increased after each treatment session. The overall appearance of the patients improved after treatment. CONCLUSION Intradermal Col Ι injection improves photoaging, with higher patient satisfaction and fewer adverse reactions, and could be an effective treatment method for populations residing in high-altitude areas.

Tissue engineering approach to the creation of grafting material for rhinoplasty: clinical сase reports

The use of autologous cartilage and bone grafts remains the gold standard in augmentation rhinoplasty performed to reconstruct of the nasal dorsum. Meanwhile, limited number of available sources, donor site morbidity, and unpredictable graft resorption represent significant disadvantages of autografting. The aim of this study is to test combination of autologous stromal vascular fraction (SVF) and commercially available bone substitutes (BSs) as new tissue-engineered grafting material (GM) for rhinoplasty. A series of consecutive cases includes four adult patients who underwent rhinoplasty to correct saddle nose deformity (SND) using the new graft technique. SVF was isolated from liposuction aspirate using standard methodology of enzymatic digestion. Two types of BSs were combined with SVF: Bio-Oss granules to create a moldable graft (M-graft), and block-shaped BoneMedik-S to create rigid grafts (R-grafts). The moderate SND was treated using an M-graft. In case of major or complex SND, the nasal dorsum was reconstructed with dorso-columellar L-shaped framework made of R-grafts. The results were evaluated over a period of 6 months to 3 years postoperatively using photogrammetry and FACE-Q appearance appraisal scales. Computerised tomography (CT) scanning of the reconstructed nose and histological analysis of grafted material were also carried out. No complications were observed. The photograms show the restoration of the correct contour of the nose. FACE-Q appraisal scale scores increased significantly, including satisfaction with nose appearance, psychological well-being, and social function. In CT evaluation, there was no substantial resorption or warping of the grafts. Histological findings show osteogenic remodeling of the grafted material. Thus, combining autologous SVF with BSs is a promising strategy for developing rhinoplasty GM.

Translation and validation of the German version of the FACE-Q paralysis module in adult patients with unilateral peripheral facial palsy

The aim was to develop and validate a German version of the FACE-Q paralysis module, a patient-reported outcome measure to assess health-related quality of life in adult patients with unilateral facial palsy. The FACE-Q craniofacial questionnaire, which includes the paralysis module, was translated. 213 patients with facial palsy completed the German FACE-Q paralysis along with the established FDI and FaCE questionnaires. Regression analyses were performed to examine the relationships between the different FACE-Q domains and patient and therapy characteristics. The FACE-Q scales had high internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha all > 0.6). High correlations were found between the FACE-Q and the FDI and FaCE (mean rho = 0.5), as well as within the FACE-Q (mean rho = 0.522). Unifactorial influences were found for all domains except Breathing (all p < 0.05). Multivariate independent predictors were found for some FACE-Q domains. Most influential predictors (> 8 subdomains): Patients who received physical therapy scored lower in ten subdomains than those who did not (all p < 0.05). Patients who had surgery scored lower in nine subdomains than patients without surgery (all p < 0.05). The German version of the FACE-Q Paralysis Module can now be used as a patient-reported outcome instrument in adult patients with facial nerve palsy.

Carbon-Assisted Q-Switched Nd:YAG Laser and Microneedling Delivery of Botulinum Toxin: A Prospective Pilot Study.

Carbon-assisted, Q-switched, neodymium-doped yttrium-aluminum-garnet laser treatment consists of applying a topical carbon suspension all over the face, followed by irradiation with a Q-switched 1064-nm neodymium-doped yttrium-aluminum-garnet laser. The delivery of multiple microdroplets of dilute onabotulinum toxin type A into the dermis has been investigated as a tool for facial rejuvenation. The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of the combined treatment with botulinum toxin and carbon peel laser (performed with a standardized technique) in patients with seborrhea, dilated pores, and wrinkles, and to demonstrate its benefits in improving the overall skin aspect. Patients enrolled in this prospective pilot study underwent 3 sessions of the combined treatment carried out 3 months apart. To evaluate the improvement of skin texture, wrinkles, dilated pores, and acne lesions, the Fitzpatrick Wrinkle Assessment Scale, the Physician Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale, a photographic scale for the pore assessment, and the Investigator Global Assessment of Acne scale were used. The FACE-Q was also administered to assess patient satisfaction. The scores obtained were compared using a paired t test. Twenty patients were recruited. The differences between pretreatment and posttreatment scores were statistically significant ( P < 0.05) on the Fitzpatrick Wrinkle Assessment Scale, Physician Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale, Investigator Global Assessment of Acne scale, FACE-Q, and photographic scale for the pore assessment. This combined protocol could be considered as a useful tool to treat skin flaws that affect texture, microroughness, and seborrhea and to reduce the size of enlarged pores. Its versatility allows for customized treatment with minimal discomfort to patients. Therapeutic, IV.

A preliminary analysis of patient reported outcomes following posterolateral mandible reconstruction: The role of flap type.

The choice of tissue type for free flap reconstruction of posterolateral mandible resections is dependent on patient and defect characteristics. We compared clinical and patient-reported outcomes following reconstruction of these defects with a soft tissue or bony free flap. A retrospective review was performed on patients who underwent posterolateral segmental mandibulectomy with immediate free flap reconstruction at MSKCC from 2006 to 2021. Outcomes of interest were patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) assessed by FACE-Q surveys and complications at the flap recipient site. Ninety patients received a bony flap and 24 patients received a soft tissue flap. Patients reconstructed with soft tissue flaps had greater rates of composite soft tissue defects (p < 0.0001), condyle resection (p = 0.001), and peripheral vascular disease (p = 0.035). Complication rates were similar between the cohorts (p > 0.05). Bony flaps scored higher on multiple FACE-Q scales: Facial Appearance (p = 0.023) Eating/Drinking (p = 0.029), Smiling (p = 0.012), Speaking (p < 0.001), Swallowing (p = 0.012), Smiling Distress (p = 0.037), and Speaking Distress (p = 0.001). Reconstruction of posterolateral mandibular defects has a similar complication profile when utilizing a bony or soft tissue free flap. Bony flaps may perform better with respect to PROMs. Reconstructive surgeons should consider using bony flap reconstruction to achieve higher patient satisfaction and quality of life.

Evaluating Predictors of Patient Satisfaction With Facial Appearance After Mohs Micrographic Surgery Using the FACE-Q.

Although patient satisfaction with reconstructive outcomes after facial skin cancer resection is an important consideration in Mohs surgery, there is limited information evaluating this concern using validated patient-reported outcome tools. To characterize predictors that may be associated with increased postoperative patient satisfaction with facial appearance after Mohs surgery using the FACE-Q/Skin Cancer survey, a patient-reported outcome tool that has been validated in various studies. A total of 202 patients who underwent Mohs surgery for facial skin cancer at the Brigham and Women's Faulkner Hospital between April 2017 and November 2021 were included after completing the postoperative Satisfaction with Facial Appearance scale (FACE-Q scale). Male patients were significantly more likely to have higher satisfaction scores compared with female patients (aOR 2.4, 95% CI 1.1-5.1). Increased preoperative facial satisfaction scores was directly correlated with increased postoperative facial satisfaction scores ( p < .01). Patients with tumors on the lower face/neck (aOR 3.88; 95% CI 1.4-10.7) had significantly greater satisfaction scores compared with those with tumors on their nose/nasolabial folds. Potential interventions and counseling methods can be tailored toward specific patient populations with lower satisfaction scores to increase their overall satisfaction with reconstructive outcomes.

Establishing Reliability and Validity of the FACE-Q Craniofacial Module for Pediatric Head and Neck Cancer.

Purpose: We aimed to establish content validity and assess the psychometric properties of the FACE-Q Craniofacial Module, a patient-reported outcome measure, for use in pediatric and adolescent patients with head and neck cancer (HNC). Methods: To establish content validity (Part 1), between June 2017 and August 2019, cognitive interviews were conducted with survivors of pediatric HNC (n = 15), and input was obtained from clinical experts (n = 21). To examine item and scale performance (Part 2), Rasch Measurement Theory (RMT) analysis was performed using data from two international studies (n = 121). Results: Part 1: Qualitative data from 15 survivors and input from 21 experts provided evidence to support the use of the FACE-Q Craniofacial Module in pediatric HNC. Part 2: The field-test study sample included 121 survivors of pediatric HNC. RMT analysis provided evidence of reliability and validity for 10 FACE-Q scales. Data for each scale fit the RMT model. Scale reliability was high, with Person Separation Index and Cronbach's alpha values ≥0.82 for 9 scales. Mean scores on the Appearance, Psychological, and Social scales were higher for those who liked aspects of their face more. For participants with (vs. without) a facial difference, mean scores were lower for the Face, Jaws, Psychological, and Social scales. Conclusion: The FACE-Q Craniofacial Module evidenced reliability and validity for HNC survivors aged 8-29 years and can be used in research and clinical care to measure quality of life of pediatric survivors with HNC.

Factors Associated with Treatment Outcome Satisfaction Six Months after Upper Blepharoplasty: A Large Cohort Study.

Upper blepharoplasty is the most popular facial cosmetic surgery. Although there are a variety of reasons to undergo this procedure, all patients expect an optimal cosmetic result. However, little is known about the factors that influence satisfaction with treatment outcome. We assessed to what extent patient characteristics, clinician-rated and postsurgical outcome measures, and patient-reported satisfaction with facial appearance and quality-of-life are associated with patient-reported satisfaction with treatment outcome after a primary upper blepharoplasty. This study was performed in 583 patients with an upper blepharoplasty between 2016 and 2021. The primary outcome was satisfaction with treatment outcome 6 months postoperatively using the FACE-Q. Determinants were baseline patient characteristics (demographics), preoperative and postoperative clinician-rated and surgical outcome measures, and preoperative and postoperative FACE-Q appearance and quality-of-life scales. Hierarchical linear regression analysis was used to determine how much of the variance in satisfaction with outcome could be explained by these groups of determinants. A total of 63% of the variance could be explained by the five groups of determinants of which 8% was explained by the baseline patient characteristics and clinician-rated and patient-reported outcomes together, another 8% by the postoperative clinician-rated outcomes, and the remaining 47% by the postoperative patient-reported outcomes. Patient characteristics, clinician-rated outcome measures, and baseline FACE-Q appearance and quality-of-life scores were of limited value in explaining satisfaction with treatment outcome. However, the postoperative FACE-Q appearance scale and the decision to undergo a blepharoplasty were strongly associated with satisfaction with treatment outcome.

Non-surgical rhinoplasty using polydioxanone threads.

To demonstrate the effects of PDO threads non-surgical rhinoplasty on patients' quality of life (using FACE-Q Scale) and first impression assessments. This is a prospective cohort study of 10 adult patients who sought non surgical rhinoplasty to improve tip rotation or reduce the appearance of a dorsal hump. All patients fulfilled the study's enrollment criteria. Prior to treatment, patients completed pre-treatment FACE-Q surveys and pre-treatment photos were obtained. Each patient was treated with the appropriate size and number of PDO threads necessary to achieve optimal correction result (OCR). Two weeks after treatment, the patient completed posttreatment FACE-Q surveys and posttreatment photos were obtained and analyzed. First impression surveys were created using pre- and posttreatment photos, and the survey was completed by 146 blinded evaluators. There was statistically significant improvement in the FACE-Q scores for social function (p = 0.02), psychological function (p = 0.0009) and satisfaction with nose (p = 0.0001). There was significant reduction in scores for appearance related psychosocial distress (p = 0.03). For the first impression surveys, there was a statistically significant improvement (p = 0.029) in the attractiveness scale posttreatment. Although not statistically significant, there was reduction of the dorsal hump (p = 0.15) and increase in the nasolabial angle (p = 0.48) and Goode's ratio (p = 0.16). There were no major adverse events or complications. This study shows that the PDO threads alone can be used safely to achieve minor nasal changes especially in tip rotation and appearance of dorsal hump, to improve patients' quality of life, and perceived attractiveness of treated patients.

Assessment of deep plane facelift in facial feminization surgery: A prospective pilot study

Facial feminization surgery (FFS) is often the first procedure requested by patients wishing to undergo gender-affirming surgery. This study aims to evaluate the applicability and effectiveness of deep plane facelifts in FFS. The authors conducted a prospective study that included patients who requested a deep plane facelift as a standalone procedure to achieve a more feminine facial appearance as the only procedure of FFS. These patients underwent deep plane facelifts to achieve a more feminine oval face shape and increased tissue projection of the zygomatic-malar region. To assess the effectiveness of the procedure and patient satisfaction, the Face-Q scales, Face and Neck lift Objective Photo-Numerical Assessment Scale, the Satisfaction With Life Scale, and the Subjective Happiness Scale were applied preoperatively and one year after surgery. Thirty-six patients were included in the study. A statistically significant difference (p<0.005) was observed between pre and postoperative scores. The repositioning of the malar fat pads increased the malar volume, providing a more oval overall shape of the face, which is typically feminine. No major complications were observed. Despite our encouraging results, new studies with a larger sample of patients are needed to support the benefits of the deep plane facelift as part of FFS to elevate this technique from an ancillary to a routine procedure for patients undergoing gender affirmation surgery.