Rhinoplasty is a procedure that improves a person’s facial features by altering the shape, size, and proportions of their nose. The nose plays a major role in facial symmetry and can define a person’s overall appearance.
People undergo rhinoplasty surgery to make their noses smaller, larger, rounder, sharper, or more symmetrical. This procedure can correct issues such as bumps, a bulbous or enlarged nasal tip, pinched or flared nostrils, a crooked nose, and various nasal injuries.
Besides these cosmetic reasons, rhinoplasty can also help address breathing issues caused by certain structural defects within the nose. Because of this, rhinoplasty is known as a functional procedure as well as a cosmetic one.
Ideal Candidates for Rhinoplasty Surgery
Most people who choose to undergo rhinoplasty are unhappy with their looks and want to improve the aesthetic qualities of their nose. Individuals who suffer from breathing difficulties caused by structural anomalies or nasal injuries are also excellent candidates for the procedure.
To be an ideal candidate for rhinoplasty, you must be in good health, understand the procedure and potential complications involved, and maintain realistic expectations in terms of your results.
How Is Rhinoplasty Conducted?
At the start of the rhinoplasty procedure, general anesthesia is administered to the patient in order to make the procedure as comfortable and pain-free as possible.
Once anesthesia has been administered, incisions are made to allow the surgeon access to the underlying nasal tissues. Incisions are made using the open rhinoplasty technique.
With the open rhinoplasty technique, the incision is made on the patient’s columella, the column of external tissue that separates the nostrils. This incision is very discreetly made and can be practically invisible after recovery.
Depending on the patient’s aesthetic and functional needs and goals, the surgeon will use various techniques to change the shape, size, and contours of the patient’s nose. These techniques can remove, alter, and even add tissue. Cartilage and bone are reshaped and rearranged as needed.
In some cases, cartilage is harvested from the patient’s rib, septum, or ear and then shaped into a graft. This graft is then inserted into a specific region of the nose according to the specific goals of the procedure. Grafts are used to add strength and support to the nasal architecture.
Once the various surgical processes have been completed, the surgeon redrapes the skin. The incisions are then closed using medical sutures.
Rhinoplasty does not require a hospital stay or a lengthy recovery period. Instead, patients are able to return home the day of the surgery. In most cases, a splint is required during recovery to help support the patient’s nose as it settles into its new shape.
Arranging a Consultation
If you’re considering rhinoplasty surgery, it’s best to arrange an informative consultation with an experienced plastic surgeon. To schedule a consultation with skilled double-board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Erika Sato, contact our office.
During your consultation with Dr. Sato, you’ll be able to discuss the details of the procedure, potential complications, post-surgical care instructions, and expected results. You’ll also be able to ask any questions you may have.