Google Search Analysis: What Do People Want to Know About Rhinoplasty and Where Do They Find the Answers?

Facial Plast Surg Aesthet Med. 2022 Sep-Oct;24(5):363-368. doi: 10.1089/fpsam.2021.0100. Epub 2021 Sep 29.

Abstract

Background: During online search queries, Google uses machine learning algorithms to provide frequently associated ("People Also Ask" [PAA]) questions with corresponding websites answering the question. We aimed to identify the most frequent questions about rhinoplasty asked online and the sources used to answer them. Materials and Methods: PAA questions were extracted for the terms "rhinoplasty," "nose surgery," and "nose job." Questions were categorized into specific topics. Websites were categorized by type and assessed for quality using Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) benchmark criteria. A search engine optimization tool determined search volume for individual questions and specific topics. Results: Internet searches for the PAA questions (n = 102) and associated websites were related to preoperative factors (46%), cost (35.7%), and recovery timeline (7.3%). Sources for the answers to PAA questions were single surgeon personal (39.3%) and medical practice (20.6%) websites. Conclusions: Surgeons may wish to emphasize specific patient education topics, including preoperative factors, cost, and recovery timeline, on their websites to address the most frequently sought-after information regarding rhinoplasty online.

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Rhinoplasty*
  • Search Engine*
  • United States