Nose reshaping

WHO COULD BENEFIT?

Individuals who have an abnormal appearance of the nose as a result of birth defects, injury, or disease.

Individuals who have noses that are cosmetically unattractive.
Individuals with noses which do not not "fit" with their other facial features.

THE GOALS:

More attractive nasal shape. Nose in better proportion to other facial features.

THE PROCEDURE:

The procedure is done on an outpatient basis under sedation and local or general anesthesia.

CLOSED RHINOPLASTY: The plastic surgeon makes the incisions inside the nostrils. This approach is more useful when the patient only desires hump ruduction.

OPEN RHINOPLASTY: The plastic surgeon makes the incision across the columella (strut between the nostrils) and inside the nostrils.

The added exposure affords the surgeon a great deal of control and the ability to make exact refinements to the dorsum and tip of the nose.

POST-OP RECOVERY:

The patient goes home with an external cast or splint in place. The nose may be packed for 24-48 hours. The splint is usually removed in 7-14 days.

Initial discomfort is easily controlled with oral medication.

Majority of swelling and bruising subsides progressively over 2-4 weeks.

External sutures (if any) are removed in 4-6 days. Internal sutures dissolve.

Semifinal result is evident in 3 months. Final result is evident in 12-14 months which is the time necessary for complete resolution of post-op swelling.

OTHER POSSIBILITIES:

An additional procedures that may enhance the result is a chin enlargement.
If you need to improve breathing, correction of a deviated septum (Septoplasty) may also be appropriate.

INSURANCE?

This procedure is not covered by insurance if performed for cosmetic reasons. However, if the nasal deformity is due to recent injury or there is a problem with breating, insurance coverage may be available.

NOTE

The suitability of a rhinoplasty for an individual is determined during the office consultation. All procedures have risks. Minor complications do occur occasionally. Major complications are rare.