Although noses can be a common hereditary trait that adds character to a face, they can also detract from a facial profile when they’re under- or over-projecting, out of balance, or unflattering. Although you may not notice it in others, the nose can balance the face and affect the overall balance and profile. The rhinoplasty is one of the most common facial plastic surgery procedures from year to year, and it can create great results when it comes to reshaping your nose and bring your face into balanced harmony. We understand it can feel like you have few options when it comes to achieving the best nose that’s unique to you, so we prefer to produce natural, subtle results.
Also called rhinoplasty, nose surgery aims to correct many different aspects of the nose like shape, size, asymmetry, and function. It can also affect nearly all areas of the nose, like the tip, nostrils, bridge, and septum. Although nose surgery is more commonly cosmetic, it can have medical advantages when it comes to correcting breathing difficulties like those caused by a deviated septum. Effective nose surgeries will focus on both form and function since the structure of the nose is delicate and requires some of the most skilled plastic surgeons to successfully manipulate it.
Patients that benefit most from rhinoplasty are those with a nasal structure or appearance that can be improved through surgery. Although many children develop an unwanted nose shape or form, it’s important that candidates be finished experiencing facial growth since this can affect results. If you chose to undergo nose surgery because of an injury or breathing obstruction, you should assess any damage and be screened by a medical professional before opting for surgery. As with any plastic surgery procedure, you should be in general good health and have no medical conditions that could affect your safety during or after surgery. It’s important to understand that effective nose surgeries only improve your existing nose and cannot produce an entirely new nasal profile. For this reason, you should be sure to honestly discuss your goals for nasal surgery during your consultation.
Rhinoplasty can be performed with two different techniques which can depend on your goals and how extensive your procedure is.
This technique uses incisions inside the nostrils that are completely concealed. Using this incision, surgical techniques can be completed entirely inside the nose without lifting the skin or tissues. This is usually the preferred technique for subtle reshaping or reducing because it’s less invasive.
Your nose surgery can be performed inside our accredited surgical facility with the use of general anesthesia. This is administered only after you’re comfortable and prepared, after which a predetermined incision is made to gain access to the underlying nasal structure. During this procedure, the various areas of the nose can be reduced, reshaped, or manipulated. In some cases, cartilage grafts can be taken from the back of the ear or ribcage. A deviated septum can also be corrected during this time using careful techniques. Once an improved nasal profile is created, the incisions are closed with sutures and you’ll be fitted with a splint to support the nose during recovery. Overall, this surgery can take around two or more hours, depending on how extensive the procedure is.
Because of the nose’s delicate structure, rhinoplasty comes with one of the longest recovery times out of all plastic surgeries. You can expect to take two or more weeks off of work or school while your nose heals and settles into its new profile, although this process can continue for around one year after surgery. Most patients can manage any pain or discomfort with prescribed medications during this time, although you can use an ice pack for additional relief. It’s important to avoid wearing glasses during the first month or so, as pressure on the bridge of your new nose can affect your results. You should also avoid blowing your nose for the first few weeks. After one week or so, your splint will be removed, although you can still expect even minor swelling for around a few months after. Most patients find life-long results with rhinoplasty, although nose surgery always carries the risk of requiring a revisional surgery because of the nose’s delicate structure.
Improving your nose can improve your overall face and your confidence. To see what options are available to you, contact our St. Joseph office and schedule a consultation by calling or filling out our online form.
