Nose surgery, also referred to as rhinoplasty, is intended to change the size and/or shape of the nose. It can bring a large or disproportionate nose into balance with the rest of the face. The nose should not be the central focus of a patient’s appearance; rather, it should complement the eyes, lips and surrounding facial features. With rhinoplasty, subtle changes can provide dramatic improvements in overall appearance.
Rhinoplasty is one of the most challenging procedures in cosmetic surgery. This is due to the dual function of the nose. Not only must the surgeon alter the shape of the nose, making it more aesthetically appealing and balanced, but they must do so while preserving the critical functions of the nose. These include breathing, sense of smell, taste, humidification and purification of air. Thus, patients must be extremely careful when choosing a surgeon to perform their rhinoplasty.
Our doctors’ unique training in otolaryngology, facial plastic and reconstructive surgery gives them the expertise to achieve the aesthetic desires of patients while maintaining or improving nasal function. They have extensive training in primary rhinoplasty, revision rhinoplasty and ethnic rhinoplasty. They perform rhinoplasty and nasal surgery for both functional and cosmetic purposes. Often, patients decide to treat both concerns in the same setting to minimize recovery. A consultation with our doctors will better determine what is best for you.
Common reasons patients seek rhinoplasty include:
- Reduce nasal dorsum (take down hump)
- Refine a bulbous tip
- Reduce the overall size of the nose
- Straighten a crooked nose
- Lift a droopy tip
- Make nose less projected (bring closer to the face)
- Narrow a wide nose
- Lengthen a short nose
Procedure Description
Rhinoplasty is performed under general anesthesia at an outpatient surgery center. The procedure itself takes approximately three hours. During the procedure, our doctors will make small incisions in your nose to allow access to the underlying cartilage and bone. The cartilage and bone are then sculpted to meet the patient’s desired appearance. If needed, cartilage from your septum can be used for grafts that can further improve the shape or function of your nose. The skin is then redraped, incisions sutured close, and an external splint is applied.
Recovery
Patients can go home after their procedure. They have a nasal splint on the outside of their nose, which stays in place for one week. At one week, the splint and external sutures are removed. There is no internal packing and patients are typically able to breathe through their nose with only minor congestion after the procedure. Some minor bleeding along with bruising and swelling is to be expected. Bruising and swelling significantly improve over the course of a few weeks. Some minor, unnoticeable swelling can persist for up to one year, but a final result can be appreciated around six weeks to three months after the procedure.
Patients are asked to refrain from all physical activity for two weeks. At two weeks, patients can resume light activity, and unrestricted activity is allowed at three weeks. Patients must be careful not to apply pressure or bump their nose for six weeks.
FAQ
What can I expect from my consultation?
We believe in providing a private, comfortable, honest environment to discuss each patient’s goals. We allot ample time for each consultation to not only address all patient concerns, but also to develop a strong rapport with each patient. We believe the keys to successful facial plastic surgery are natural, long-lasting results coupled with a strong relationship between patient, surgeon and the rest of the staff.
At the beginning of your consultation, you will meet with a member of our staff who will tell you a little about our practice and what to expect going forward. They will also obtain your medical history, which the doctor will review so he can customize his treatment accordingly. Your specialist will then listen to your concerns and perform a head and neck exam, focusing on your nose. They will then take digital photographs, which can be modified, to show you what changes you can expect with surgery. These photographs serve as a communication tool between patient and surgeon. At your consultation, you will be provided with a quote for the procedures or treatments discussed and you will have the opportunity to schedule if desired.
We know that questions arise after your consultation. We are happy to answer your questions via phone or e-mail and our team is happy to see patients as often as necessary in follow-up/second consultations.
I have breathing issues in addition to cosmetic changes I want for my nose. Can both be addressed at the same time?
Yes, it is not uncommon for patients to have their breathing concerns addressed at the same time as their cosmetic concerns. This allows patients to combine their recovery and healing all under one timeframe.
Breathing issues or nasal obstruction can be multifactorial. Our unique training in both facial plastic surgery and otolaryngology gives us the expertise to address both functional and cosmetic issues. At your consultation, we can determine what additional procedures are warranted. This can include septoplasty, turbinate reduction and/or nasal valve repair.
Where are the incisions for rhinoplasty and will I have scars?
We typically perform rhinoplasty through an open approach. This entails two incisions on the inside of your nose and one small external incision along the columella (the bridge of tissue that separates the nostrils on the base of the nose). This incision is designed to heal inconspicuously on the undersurface of your nose, with most patients barely able to see it over time. For select patients, we also perform endonasal rhinoplasty, which utilizes only incisions on the inside of your nose. At your consultation, your doctor will determine which approach is best for you to obtain your desired goals.
Will I get the nose I want with surgery?
Patients are encouraged to bring photos of noses they find attractive to help guide the discussion about rhinoplasty. This helps to understand what general size, shape and proportion the patient is seeking. Patients must also understand, however, that what looks good on one person may be unbalanced on another. Realistic goals and honest communication between patient and surgeon are of utmost importance for successful rhinoplasty. Our doctors pride themselves on taking the time to understand each patient’s goals and individualize treatment plans to best suit them. At the end of the consultation, digital imaging will be performed to give the patient an idea of what to expect with surgery.
Are there options besides surgery to improve the appearance of my nose?
For certain patients who wish to avoid surgery but still improve the appearance of their nose, fillers may be an option. Fillers can camouflage a nasal hump or provide subtle changes to bring the nose into balance. Fillers are not for everyone; they are best suited for patients seeking subtle changes, especially with regards to their nasal dorsum. In properly selected patients, fillers can provide long lasting improvements lasting approximately one year.
Call Advanced Aesthetics at (856) 500-3223 for more information or request an appointment today!