Rhinoplasty
What to Consider Before Rhinoplasty Surgery
Rhinoplasty, also known as a “nose job,” is a surgical procedure performed to change the shape of the nose. Rhinoplasty may be performed for aesthetic reasons or for reconstructive purposes. Rhinoplasty is most frequently chosen for cosmetic reasons by patients who do not like the current shape or size of their nose. It is also performed to correct medical conditions affecting the nose or to reconstruct the nose following trauma.
During rhinoplasty procedures, the bone, cartilage, and other tissues in the nose are reshaped to create the desired appearance. Rhinoplasty can correct a variety of perceived defects to achieve an improved facial balance and symmetry. Rhinoplasty can make the nose larger or smaller, reshape the tip of the nose, or remove bumps on the bridge of the nose. In addition to these concerns, rhinoplasty can also repair a broken nose, a congenital defect, or a deviated septum to improve both the appearance and function of the nose.
Types of Rhinoplasty Procedures
The rhinoplasty procedure can include the removal of bone or cartilage, or the addition of synthetic tissues, to increase or decrease the size of various elements of the nose. The visual affects of rhinoplasty may be subtle or dramatic, depending on your needs and desires. The exact techniques used for your procedure depend on the current shape and size of your nose and the desired results; no two rhinoplasty procedures are exactly the same.
Rhinoplasty is typically performed with general anesthesia, although in some cases, it may be possible to undergo rhinoplasty with local anesthesia and a sedative. During rhinoplasty, the surgeon begins by making an incision inside each nostril, and sometimes on the piece of skin that separates the nostrils. Depending on the type of change desired, the bone in the nose may be re-set. The cartilage, which creates the shape of the nose, is sculpted to achieve the desired effect. Small pieces of synthetic tissue may also be inserted to increase the volume of certain areas of the nose. Finally, the incisions are closed, and a splint is set in place to support the new shape of the nose until it has healed.
Are You a Good Candidate for Rhinoplasty?
If you feel that your nose is not shaped “just right,” you may be a good candidate for rhinoplasty. Some of the many complaints of those seeking rhinoplasty include:
- Nose is too thick
- Nose is too thin
- Tip is too pointy
- Tip is upturned
- Nostrils are too wide or flared
- A bump on the bridge
- Nose bends to the left or right or is not symmetrical
If you are undergoing rhinoplasty for cosmetic reasons, be sure to weigh your decision carefully; just because you’re unhappy with your natural nose doesn’t mean you would be happy with a new one. In addition to these cosmetic conditions, rhinoplasty may also be used to correct a deviated septum, which often contributes to sleep apnea. Rhinoplasty surgery is also used to repair damage caused by an injury, accident, or birth defect.
Most patients for rhinoplasty must be at least 15 years old, because by this age the nose has reached its adult appearance. However, younger patients may undergo rhinoplasty in the case of birth defects or structural damage. There is no upper age limit for those wishing to undergo rhinoplasty, and it can be performed on both men and women of any ethnicity. One of the most important factors in the success of a nose job is the thickness of the skin covering the nose. In patients with thin skin, comparably minor corrections in the underlying bone or cartilage create significant visual changes. In patients with thicker skin, the same changes may have less noticeable results.
Finding a Rhinoplasty Surgeon
Besides the cost of rhinoplasty, its important to find a surgeon that is very experienced. When researching for a rhinoplasty surgeon, make sure they are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) or other association such as the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASPS) or American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS). Even though a membership in any society or board-certification does not guarantee a successful result most certifying boards like these require extensive medical training, experience, and rigorous surgical education which can ensure that the most appropriate techniques are used for your rhinoplasty surgery while reducing the risk of complications and a quick rhinoplasty recovery.