A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology has introduced the Nose Pliability Assessment Scale (NPAS) to be conducted prior to non-surgical rhinoplasties.
The researchers Dr Ayad Harb, Dr Amane Abdul-Razzak and Dr Shahd Twijiri have proposed the NPAS to assess nasal skin pliability and flexibility before filler injections to ensure patients are suitable candidates.
They explain that the assessment covers skin firmness, thickness and mobility, and uses a ‘pinch test’ whereby the radix, dorsum and nasal tip are pinched to judge the pliability of the soft tissue envelope. The research states that this test helps ascertain the potential space between the soft tissue layers and the periosteum/perichondrium, where the dermal filler is injected.
The NPAS results in a 1-5 pliability rating, with a rating of 3-4 being an ideal candidate, and 1-2 (signally lack of mobility) meaning a higher risk of vascular and cosmetic complications, as the researchers explain.
