Facial Plast Surg 2017; 33(04): 365-366
DOI: 10.1055/s-0037-1604176
Guest Editor Preface
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

The Nose and Its Function

Julia Vent
1   Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University of Heidelberg Medical Center at Mannheim, Cologne/Köln, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
28 July 2017 (online)

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Julia Vent, MD, PhD

The nose as an organ has intrigued me from my initial days as a medical student. Not only is it the center of attention in the middle of our face and hence an aesthetic trigger point, it is also one of the most vital parts of human body.

The air we breathe is filtered, tempered, and humidified, immunologic reactions are initiated, dangerous odorants warn us from pericles.

Food intake is regulated by olfaction and the limbic system acts as a center of emotion and memory. We thus not only enjoy life with our nose, we need the nose! Even the choice of partners and friends is influenced by olfaction, leave alone the joy of a walk in the forest amid the scents of grass, herbs, trees, or a nice wine.

We thus need a functioning nose that has long been neglected in humans as the “lower” animalistic sense organ.

I am deeply honored to have the most outstanding experts in this field author thrilling articles on the various aspects of the nose for this issue of Facial Plastic Surgery. Every rhinosurgeon should not only look at the external results but also at preserving or even improving nasal function, mainly ventilation and olfaction. Predicting surgical outcomes would be implausible, but assessing nasal functions properly and thus counseling and guiding our patients in the right and realistic way would be ideal.

Many thanks to all the contributors who have put together this special edition on “The Nose and its Function” and supporting me in promoting my very favorite organ!

We dedicate this issue to our valued colleague, Claus Walter. Rest in peace.

Enjoy reading and learning from this issue of FPS and do not hesitate to contact me for any further questions or suggestions.