Patient Glossary of Terms

Patient Glossary of Terms

Table of Contents

I. Surgical Decision-Making & General Terms

Alternative Treatments: Other options available to address your concerns, which may include different surgical procedures, non-surgical treatments, or no treatment at all.
Benefit: The positive outcomes or improvements expected from a surgical procedure.
Biopsy: The removal of a small sample of tissue for examination under a microscope to help make a diagnosis.
Complication: An unexpected problem or medical issue that can occur during or after surgery. Examples include infection, bleeding, or poor healing.
Consultation: A meeting with your surgeon to discuss your concerns, goals, medical history, and potential treatment options. This is a key part of the informed consent process.
Contraindication: A condition or factor that makes a particular treatment or procedure inadvisable or potentially harmful for a patient.
Diagnosis: The identification of the nature of an illness or other problem by examination of the symptoms.
Elective Surgery: A surgical procedure that is planned in advance and is not an emergency. Most cosmetic surgeries are elective.
General Anesthesia: Medication that causes a temporary loss of consciousness, so you are asleep and unaware during the entire surgical procedure.
Incision: A cut made through the skin during surgery to access underlying tissues.
Indication (for surgery): The specific medical reason or condition for which a particular surgical procedure is recommended.
Informed Consent: A crucial process where your surgeon provides you with detailed information about a proposed surgical procedure, including its benefits, potential risks, alternative treatments, and expected outcomes. This allows you to make a knowledgeable decision about proceeding. It involves signing a consent form.
Inpatient Surgery: Surgery that requires an overnight stay or longer in a hospital or surgical facility.
Local Anesthesia: Numbing medication applied to a specific part of thebody, allowing you to remain awake during the procedure but without feeling pain in that area.
Minimally Invasive: Procedures that involve very small incisions and typically result in less scarring and faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery.
Non-invasive: Procedures that do not involve breaking the skin or entering the body.
Outpatient Surgery (Day Surgery): Surgery that does not require an overnight stay in the hospital or clinic. Many facial cosmetic procedures are performed on an outpatient basis.
Pathology Report: The medical report that describes the findings of a biopsy or tissue examination.
Post-operative (Post-op): The period of time immediately following your surgery, including recovery and follow-up care.
Pre-operative (Pre-op): The period of time before your surgery. This includes consultations, medical evaluations, and preparation instructions.
Prognosis: The likely course or outcome of a disease or medical condition, or the expected outcome of a procedure.
Risk: The possibility of an unwanted outcome or complication occurring as a result of a surgical procedure. All surgeries carry some level of risk, which your surgeon will discuss with you.
Sedation (Twilight Anesthesia): Medications that help you relax and block pain during a medical procedure. You may be sleepy but can usually respond to verbal cues.
Surgical Consent Form: A legal document that you sign before surgery, confirming that you have discussed the procedure with your surgeon, understand the information provided (including risks and benefits), and agree to undergo the surgery.
Suture: Medical stitches used to close incisions or wounds. (See Section XIX for more detail on types)

II. Nasal Anatomy

Alar Cartilages: The cartilages that shape the nostrils and the nasal tip.
Cartilage (Nasal): The firm, flexible connective tissue that shapes the lower two-thirds of the nose, including the tip and septum.
Columella: The strip of skin and cartilage between the nostrils, at the base of the nose.
Deviated Septum: A condition where the nasal septum is off-center or crooked, potentially causing breathing problems.
Maxilla: The upper jaw bone, which also forms part of the floor of the nasal cavity. (Also relevant in Section XII)
Mucosa (Nasal Mucosa): The moist, thin layer of tissue lining the inside of the nose.
Nasal Bones: The two small bones that form the bridge of the nose.
Nasal Bridge (Dorsum Nasi): The sloped part of the nose extending from between the eyes down towards the tip.
Nasal Tip: The very end point of the nose.
Nostrils (Nares): The external openings of the nose.
Septum (Nasal Septum): The wall of bone and cartilage that divides the inside of the nose into two separate nostrils (nasal passages).
Turbinates (Nasal Conchae): Structures on the side walls of the inside of the nose that help warm and humidify air. Enlarged turbinates can block airflow.

III. Nasal Surgery & Rhinoplasty

Alarplasty (Alar Base Reduction): A surgical procedure to narrow the width of the nostrils.
Closed Rhinoplasty (Endonasal Rhinoplasty): A surgical approach where all incisions are made inside the nostrils, leaving no visible external scars.
Cosmetic Rhinoplasty: Rhinoplasty performed primarily to improve the appearance of the nose.
Ecchymosis (Bruising): Discoloration of the skin caused by bleeding underneath, also common after nasal surgery.
Edema (Swelling): The accumulation of fluid in tissues, a common occurrence after surgery.
Functional Rhinoplasty: Rhinoplasty performed primarily to improve nasal breathing.
Graft (Nasal Graft): Cartilage or bone taken from one part of the body (e.g., septum, ear, or rib) and used to reshape or support the nose during rhinoplasty.
Nasal Packing (Internal): Material placed inside the nasal passages after surgery to help control bleeding and support the septum. Its use varies.
Nasal Splint (External): A supportive dressing placed on the outside of the nose after surgery to help maintain its new shape and reduce swelling.
Open Rhinoplasty: A surgical approach where a small incision is made on the columella (the skin between the nostrils) to allow the surgeon to lift the skin and have a direct view of the underlying nasal structures.
Osteotomy: A surgical cut made in a bone, often performed during rhinoplasty to reshape the nasal bones (e.g., narrow the nasal bridge).
Primary Rhinoplasty: A patient's first rhinoplasty procedure.
Revision Rhinoplasty (Secondary Rhinoplasty): A subsequent rhinoplasty procedure performed to correct or improve upon the results of a previous nose surgery.
Rhinoplasty (Nose Job): A surgical procedure to change the shape or size of the nose, or to improve its function (breathing).
Septorhinoplasty: A combination of rhinoplasty and septoplasty, performed to improve both the appearance of thenose and its function by correcting a deviated septum.
Sinus Surgery (Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery - FESS): Procedures to treat chronic sinusitis or other sinus problems, sometimes performed by otolaryngologists.
Tip Plasty: A type of rhinoplasty focused specifically on reshaping the nasal tip.

IV. Otolaryngology Words (Relevant to Facial Plastics)

Adenoidectomy: Surgical removal of the adenoids.
Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery: A subspecialty (often within Otolaryngology or Plastic Surgery) focused on cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the face, head, and neck.
Head and Neck Surgery: The surgical specialty that deals with diseases and disorders of the head and neck region.
Laryngoscopy: Examination of the larynx (voice box).
Maxillofacial: Pertaining to the jaws and face.
Otolaryngologist (ENT Doctor): A medical doctor specializing in disorders of the ear, nose, throat, and related structures of the head and neck. Many facial plastic and reconstructive surgeons are initially trained as otolaryngologists.
Sinusitis: Inflammation or infection of the sinuses (air-filled cavities in the skull around the nose).
Sleep Apnea: A sleep disorder characterized by pauses in breathing or periods of shallow breathing during sleep. Nasal or throat issues can contribute.
Tonsillectomy: Surgical removal of the tonsils.

V. Pain

Acute Pain: Pain that comes on suddenly and is usually short-lived; typical after surgery.
Analgesia: Relief from pain.
Analgesic: Medication used to relieve pain (e.g., acetaminophen, ibuprofen, opioids).
Chronic Pain: Pain that persists for a long period, typically more than 3-6 months.
Discomfort: A mild form of pain or an unpleasant sensation.
Nerve Block: An injection of anesthetic medication near specific nerves to block pain signals from a particular area of the body.
Pain Scale: A tool used to help patients rate the intensity of their pain (e.g., a scale of 0 to 10).

VI. Upper Blepharoplasty Words

Blepharoplasty: Eyelid surgery performed to remove excess skin, muscle, or fat from the upper or lower eyelids.
Brow Lift (Forehead Lift): A surgical procedure to elevate a drooping brow, which can sometimes improve the appearance of the upper eyelids as well. It may be performed in conjunction with an upper blepharoplasty. (See Section XIV for more detail)
Canthopexy/Canthoplasty: Surgical procedures to support or tighten the outer corner of the eyelid.
Dermatochalasis: Excess skin on the upper or lower eyelids due to aging and loss of elasticity.
Levator Muscle: The muscle responsible for lifting the upper eyelid. Ptosis repair often involves adjusting this muscle.
Orbital Fat: The fat pads located around the eyes, which can sometimes bulge and cause puffiness.
Ptosis (Eyelid Ptosis/Blepharoptosis): Drooping of the upper eyelid, which can sometimes obstruct vision.
Upper Blepharoplasty: Surgery specifically on the upper eyelids to correct drooping (ptosis), remove excess skin (hooding), or reduce puffiness.

VII. Earlobe Repair and Related

Auricle (Pinna): The visible, external part of the ear.
Earlobe Reduction: A surgical procedure to reduce the size of overly large or elongated earlobes.
Earlobe Repair: A specific type of otoplasty to repair torn, stretched, or gauged earlobes.
Keloid (Ear Keloid): An overgrowth of scar tissue that can occur after ear piercing or trauma, often requiring specialized treatment.
Otoplasty: Surgical reshaping of the external ear. This can include pinning back prominent ears, reshaping cartilage, or repairing deformities.
Prominent Ears: Ears that stick out noticeably from the sides of the head. Otoplasty can correct this.
Split Earlobe: A tear in the earlobe, often caused by earrings being pulled.

VIII. Liposuction and Submental Liposuction and Related

Adipose Tissue: Body fat.
Cannula: A thin, hollow tube used during liposuction to suction out fat. (See Section XIX for more detail)
Chin Augmentation (Genioplasty/Mentoplasty): Surgical procedure to enhance the size or shape of the chin, sometimes performed with submental liposuction to improve overall facial balance. (See Section XV for more detail)
Jowls: Sagging skin and fat along the jawline. (Also relevant in Section XIII)
Liposuction: A surgical procedure that removes excess fat deposits from specific areas of the body using a suction device.
Neck Lift (Platysmaplasty): A surgical procedure to tighten loose skin and underlying muscles in the neck. Often combined with submental liposuction for comprehensive neck rejuvenation. (See Section XIII for more detail)
Platysma Muscle: A broad sheet of muscle in the neck that can contribute to visible banding or sagging with age.
Submental Liposuction: Liposuction performed under the chin (submental area) to remove excess fat and improve the contour of the neck and jawline, often addressing a "double chin."
Tumescent Liposuction: A common liposuction technique where a large volume of saline solution mixed with local anesthetic and epinephrine is injected into the fatty tissue before suctioning. This helps numb the area, constrict blood vessels (reducing bleeding), and make fat removal easier.

IX. Credentials and Related Words (Relevant in Ottawa/Ontario/Canada)

Board-Certified: In Canada, "FRCSC" is the equivalent of "board-certified" in a Royal College specialty. If a surgeon mentions US board certification (e.g., ABFPRS - American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery), it's an additional credential.
Continuing Medical Education (CME) / Professional Development: Ongoing education and training that doctors undertake to stay current with advances in their field.
CPSO (College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario): The medical regulatory body for the province of Ontario. All doctors practicing in Ontario must be registered with the CPSO.
Fellowship Training: Additional, specialized training undertaken after completing residency in a particular subspecialty (e.g., Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery).
FRCSC (Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada): A designation indicating that a physician has completed rigorous specialty training and passed comprehensive examinations recognized by the Royal College in Canada. This is a key indicator of specialist qualification in Canada.
MD (Doctor of Medicine): A medical degree earned after completing medical school.
Medical License: Official permission granted by a regulatory body (like the CPSO) allowing a physician to practice medicine.
Residency: A period of advanced medical training in a chosen specialty that a doctor completes after medical school.
Specialist: A doctor who has advanced training and expertise in a specific area of medicine (e.g., Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, Plastic Surgery).

X. General Skin & Aging Terms

Collagen: A protein that provides structure and elasticity to the skin.
Dermis: The layer of skin beneath the epidermis, containing collagen, elastin, blood vessels, and nerves.
Elastin: A protein that allows skin to stretch and bounce back.
Epidermis: The outermost layer of the skin.
Fine Lines & Wrinkles: Creases or folds in the skin, often due to aging, sun exposure, or muscle activity.
Hyaluronic Acid: A substance naturally found in the skin that helps retain moisture; also used in dermal fillers.
Skin Laxity: Looseness or sagging of the skin due to loss of collagen and elastin.
Sun Damage (Photoaging): Premature aging of the skin caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.

XI. Nasal Aesthetics & Surgical Concepts (Often Used in Rhinoplasty Planning)

Aesthetic Units of the Nose: The nose is divided into several distinct regions or "units" that surgeons consider for balance and proportion during planning and surgery. These include:
  • Nasal Dorsum (Bridge): The area running from between the eyes down to just above the tip.
  • Nasal Sidewalls: The sides of the upper, bony part of the nose.
  • Nasal Tip: The most projecting part of the nose.
  • Alae (Alar Sidewalls / Nostril Rims): The curved, fleshy outer walls of the nostrils.
  • Columella: The vertical strip of tissue between the nostrils.
  • Soft Triangles (Facets): Small, subtle indentations on either side of the nasal tip.
Alar Flare: The degree to which the nostrils spread outwards at the base of the nose.
Alar Retraction: When the nostril rims are pulled upwards, exposing too much of the columella or internal nasal cavity.
Amorphous Tip: A nasal tip that lacks clear definition or distinct points.
Bifid Tip: A nasal tip that has a slight cleft or indentation down the middle.
Boxy Tip: A nasal tip that appears square or rectangular from the front view.
Bulbous Tip: A nasal tip that appears rounded, wide, and lacking definition.
Columellar Show: The amount of the columella that is visible from the side view.
Dorsal Hump (Nasal Hump/Bump): A convexity or bump on the bridge of the nose.
Hooding (Columellar): When the nostril rims hang lower than the columella.
Ideal Projection (Nasal Tip): A nasal tip that is in harmonious balance with other facial features.
Ideal Rotation (Nasal Tip): The nasal tip is angled appropriately for the patient's facial features and gender.
Infratip Lobule: The lower part of the nasal tip, just above the columella.
Nasal Axis/Midline: An imaginary vertical line running down the center of the nose.
Nasal Base Width: The width of the nose at its base.
Nasolabial Angle: The angle formed between the columella and the upper lip, a key indicator of nasal tip rotation.
Overprojected Tip: A nasal tip that sticks out too far from the face.
Over-rotated Tip (Upturned Nose): The nasal tip points too far upwards.
Pinched Tip: A nasal tip that appears unnaturally narrow or constricted.
Saddle Nose Deformity (Scooped Bridge): A condition where the nasal bridge has a concave appearance.
Supratip Break: A slight, desirable depression on the nasal bridge just above the nasal tip.
Symmetry (Nasal): The degree to which the two sides of the nose mirror each other.
Underprojected Tip: A nasal tip that does not stick out far enough.
Under-rotated Tip (Droopy Tip / Ptotic Tip): The nasal tip points downwards.

XII. Broader Facial Anatomy & Structures (Relevant to Multiple Procedures)

Facial Nerve (Cranial Nerve VII): The nerve that controls the muscles of facial expression.
Fascia: A sheet or band of fibrous connective tissue that covers, supports, and separates muscles and organs.
Mandible: The lower jawbone.
Masseter Muscle: A large muscle in the cheek, one of the primary muscles of mastication (chewing).
Maxilla: The upper jawbone. (Also relevant in Section II)
Orbital Rim: The bony socket that surrounds the eye.
Parotid Gland: The largest salivary gland, located in front of and below the ear.
Periosteum: A dense layer of vascular connective tissue enveloping the bones.
SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System): A layer of tissue deep to the skin containing muscles of facial expression, key in facelift techniques.
Subcutaneous Tissue: The layer of tissue directly beneath the skin, primarily composed of fat and connective tissue.
Temporalis Muscle: A broad, fan-shaped muscle on each side of the head in the temporal fossa (temples).
Trigeminal Nerve (Cranial Nerve V): The nerve responsible for sensation in the face and motor functions.
Zygoma (Zygomatic Arch): The cheekbone.

XIII. Facelift & Neck Lift Terminology

Cervicoplasty: Surgery to remove excess skin from the neck.
Deep Plane Facelift: An advanced facelift technique that repositions the SMAS layer and skin together.
Jowls: Sagging skin and fat that droop below the jawline. (Also relevant in Section VIII)
Marionette Lines: The creases running downwards from the corners of the mouth.
Mid-Facelift: A surgical procedure focused on lifting and rejuvenating the cheek area.
Mini Facelift (Short Scar Facelift): A less invasive facelift technique with shorter incisions.
Nasolabial Folds (Smile Lines/Laugh Lines): The creases running from each side of the nose to the corners of the mouth.
Platysmaplasty (Neck Lift): A surgical procedure that tightens the underlying platysma muscles in the neck and removes excess skin and fat. (Also relevant in Section VIII)
Rhytidectomy (Facelift): The surgical procedure to improve visible signs of aging in the face and neck.
Skin Redraping: The process by which the surgeon repositions and smooths the facial skin.
Suspension Sutures: Stitches used to lift and support facial tissues in their new, elevated position.

XIV. Brow Lift (Forehead Lift) Terminology

Brow Ptosis: Drooping of the eyebrows.
Coronal Brow Lift: A traditional brow lift technique involving an incision across the top of the head.
Endoscopic Brow Lift: A minimally invasive technique using small incisions and an endoscope.
Forehead Rhytids (Forehead Wrinkles): Horizontal wrinkles across the forehead.
Glabella (Glabellar Lines/Frown Lines): The smooth area between the eyebrows; lines here are often called "11s."
Temporal Brow Lift (Lateral Brow Lift): A less invasive technique focusing on lifting the outer portion of the brows.

XV. Chin & Cheek Augmentation Terminology

Chin Implant (Mental Implant): A biocompatible implant placed over the chin bone to increase its size and projection.
Facial Asymmetry: Differences in size, shape, or position between the right and left sides of the face.
Facial Implants: General term for biocompatible materials designed to augment or reconstruct facial contours.
Malar Implants (Cheek Implants): Implants placed over the cheekbones (zygomas).
Mentoplasty (Genioplasty): Surgical reshaping of the chin. (Also relevant in Section VIII)
Microgenia: A condition characterized by an abnormally small or recessed chin.
Submalar Implants: Implants placed below the cheekbones to fill out a sunken appearance.

XVI. General Wound Healing & Scar Management

Collagen Remodeling: The process by which collagen in a scar is reorganized and matures over time.
Contracture (Scar Contracture): Tightening of skin after an injury that may limit movement.
Dehiscence: Separation of the edges of a surgical incision.
Drain (Surgical Drain): A tube used to remove excess fluid from a surgical site.
Epithelialization: The process of skin cells migrating across a wound to cover it.
Granulation Tissue: New connective tissue and tiny blood vessels that form on the surfaces of a wound.
Hematoma: A collection of blood outside of blood vessels, often a firm lump.
Hypertrophic Scar: A raised, often red, scar that stays within the boundaries of the original wound.
Inflammation: The body's natural response to injury, characterized by redness, swelling, heat, and pain.
Keloid Scar: A type of raised scar that grows beyond the boundaries of the original wound. (Previously mentioned for ears, broader here).
Scar: A mark left on the skin after a wound has healed.
Scar Maturation: The final phase of wound healing where the scar becomes less prominent.
Seroma: A collection of clear serous fluid in the body.
Sun Protection (for scars): Protecting healing incisions and new scars from sun exposure is crucial.
Topical Scar Treatments: Creams, gels, or silicone sheets applied to improve scar appearance.

XVII. Anesthesia & Sedation (Further Detail)

Anesthesiologist: A medical doctor specially trained to administer anesthesia and manage patient care.
Anesthetic: A drug that causes anesthesia – a reversible loss of sensation.
Endotracheal Tube (ET Tube): A breathing tube inserted into the trachea during general anesthesia.
General Anesthesia: (Listed in Section I, reiterated here for completeness of this section).
Intravenous (IV) Sedation (“Twilight Sleep”): Sedatives administered through an IV for deep relaxation.
Laryngeal Mask Airway (LMA): A device placed in the back of the mouth to keep the airway open during general anesthesia.
Local Anesthetic: (Listed in Section I, reiterated here).
Malignant Hyperthermia: A rare but life-threatening reaction to certain anesthetic drugs.
Monitored Anesthesia Care (MAC): Anesthesia service where an anesthesiologist monitors the patient and administers sedatives.
NPO (Nil Per Os / Nothing By Mouth): Instructions to avoid eating or drinking before surgery.
Regional Anesthetic: Blocks pain in a larger area of the body.

XVIII. Non-Surgical & Minimally Invasive Options

Biostimulatory Fillers: Fillers that stimulate the body's own collagen production (e.g., Sculptra®, Radiesse®).
Botulinum Toxin (e.g., Botox®, Dysport®, Xeomin®): Injectable medication to temporarily relax facial muscles.
Chemical Peel: Procedure using a chemical solution to remove outer skin layers.
Dermal Fillers: Injectable substances to add volume, smooth wrinkles (e.g., Hyaluronic Acid Fillers).
Laser Resurfacing: Procedure using laser light to improve skin texture.
"Liquid Facelift": Non-surgical approach using fillers and botulinum toxin.
Microneedling (Collagen Induction Therapy): Procedure using fine needles to stimulate collagen.
Photorejuvenation (IPL - Intense Pulsed Light): Light-based treatments for skin concerns.
Radiofrequency (RF) Treatments: Energy-based treatments for skin tightening.
Thread Lift: Minimally invasive procedure using temporary sutures for a subtle lift.
Ultrasound Therapy (e.g., Ultherapy® conceptual): Uses ultrasound energy for skin lifting and tightening.

XIX. Surgical Instruments & Operating Room Basics

Absorbable Suture (Dissolving Suture): Sutures made of materials that are naturally broken down and absorbed by the body over time.
Antiseptic: A substance that prevents or stops the growth of microorganisms on living tissue.
Aseptic Technique: A set of practices and procedures performed to prevent contamination by pathogens and maintain sterility.
Braided Suture: A type of surgical stitch made from multiple fine threads braided or twisted together.
Cannula: A thin, hollow tube used for various purposes like suctioning fat, injecting fillers, or irrigation.
Chlorhexidine: A powerful antiseptic solution used to cleanse skin before surgery.
Disinfectant: A chemical agent used to destroy microorganisms on non-living surfaces.
Electrocautery (often referred to by the brand name "Bovie"): A surgical device using electrical current to cut tissue or stop bleeding.
Forceps (often called "Pickups" or "Tweezers"): Hand-held, hinged instruments for grasping or holding tissues.
Monofilament Suture: A type of surgical stitch made from a single, smooth strand of material.
Needle Driver (Needle Holder): A specialized surgical instrument used to hold and guide a suturing needle.
Non-absorbable Suture (Permanent Suture): Sutures made of materials that are not broken down by the body and may require removal or remain permanently.
Pickups: (See Forceps).
Rasp (Surgical Rasp): A surgical instrument with a rough surface, used for scraping, smoothing, or reshaping bone or cartilage.
Retractor: An instrument used to hold back or separate the edges of an incision or tissues.
Scalpel: A small, extremely sharp bladed instrument used to make precise incisions.
Sterile: Meaning completely free from all living microorganisms.
Sterile Field: The specific area prepared for surgery that is kept free of microorganisms.
Surgical Drape: Sterile cloths or coverings used to create a barrier around the surgical site.
Surgical Gown: A sterile garment worn by members of the surgical team.
Surgical Gloves: Sterile gloves worn by the surgical team.
Surgical Mask: Worn by the surgical team to cover the mouth and nose.
Surgical Scrub: The meticulous process of cleaning hands and forearms by the surgical team.
Suture Materials: The threads used to stitch tissues together.
Suture Size (Gauge): Refers to the diameter of the suture material, with higher numbers like 5-0 or 6-0 indicating finer threads.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this glossary is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified healthcare provider. Always seek the advice of your surgeon or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment options. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The terms and definitions here are simplified for patient understanding and may not encompass all medical nuances.