The 411 On Rhinoplasty Surgery

Rhinoplasty is an invasive surgical procedure designed to improve the cosmetic appearance or functionality of a human nose. The aesthetic improvements can work wonders for a person’s self-esteem and appearance. This type of surgery is usually performed by an otolaryngologist head-and-neck surgeon, maxillofacial surgeon, or plastic surgeon.

Are you a candidate for rhinoplasty surgery? Patients seeking nose reconstruction should be in their mid-to-late teens at the very least. This ensures the nasal bones have matured enough and the shape of the nose is stabilized. Be sure to discuss your final expectations with your surgeon. He or she will be able to tell you what is viable and possible with your existing nose and face shape.

What’s involved in rhinoplasty? There are two main types of rhinoplasty: open and closed, depending on whether the incisions are completely inside the nose or if an additional inconspicuous incision is made across the bottom skin that separates the nostrils.

After the incisions are made, the process is essentially the same. The surgeon separates the skin and soft tissue from underlying cartilage and bone. If a hump is present, a scalpel is used to remove cartilage and a chisel is used to remove bone. If more support or shape is needed, synthetic or transplant implants of cartilage or bone are placed and sutured into position. Finally, a metal splint is designed to hold the nose in its’ new shape and will remain taped to the nose for one week.

Types of rhinoplasty are further divided into primary or secondary and functional or reconstructive. Primary rhinoplasty refers to an initial surgery, regardless of the cosmetic or functional purpose. Secondary rhinoplasty refers to cosmetic surgery designed to correct an unsatisfactory outcome from a previous surgery. There are a variety of reasons for secondary rhinoplasty and 5-20% of patients are dissatisfied with their initial surgical outcome.

What are the risks of rhinoplasty surgery? As with all surgeries, cosmetic processes have the risk of bleeding, infection, adhesions, abscess formation, inappropriate healing, and unsightly scarring. Risks specific to rhinoplasty include difficulty breathing, chronic nose bleeding or whistling.

How to choose a surgeon? Ensure the surgeon you talk to you in your area is open to your questions, concerns and expectations. He or she should be certified with the American Board of Plastic Surgery and have at least 5 years of experience in this field.