JOSÉ STURLA PELLERANO
Dr. José Sturla, MD, Fellowship-trained Facial Plastic Surgery and Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery
Dr. José Sturla is a highly experienced facial plastic surgeon and otolaryngologist based in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, with advanced training in facial plastic surgery and rhinology from the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM). He specializes in both aesthetic and functional procedures of the face, with a particular focus on functional rhinoplasty, facial harmonization, and comprehensive facial rejuvenation. Dr. Sturla combines meticulous surgical technique with individualized patient care to achieve natural, balanced outcomes that enhance both form and function. He provides care to both local and international patients and is committed to excellence in surgical results and patient satisfaction.
Session
Background
Thick nasal skin remains one of the most complex variables influencing outcomes in rhinoplasty. Increased dermal thickness, sebaceous gland density, and reduced skin contractility frequently limit tip definition and obscure underlying structural modifications. These characteristics demand a structural, evidence-based surgical approach focused on long-term stability rather than superficial refinement.
Objectives
To critically analyze the anatomical, technical, and postoperative challenges associated with thick-skin rhinoplasty and to present surgical strategies that optimize aesthetic definition, functional preservation, and long-term outcome stability.
Description
This keynote lecture provides a comprehensive review of the principles involved in rhinoplasty in patients with thick nasal skin. Topics include objective assessment and classification of skin thickness, implications for surgical planning, structural grafting techniques, tip support and projection strategies, soft tissue management, and postoperative adjuncts aimed at modulating edema and scar formation. Case series with long-term follow-up are presented to illustrate surgical decision-making and outcome predictability.
Outcomes
Upon completion of this lecture, participants will be able to recognize the limitations imposed by thick nasal skin, establish realistic surgical goals, and implement structural techniques that improve nasal definition while maintaining functional integrity and long-term aesthetic stability.