The nose is the most prominent facial feature, making it imperative that it be in balance with the rest of the face.
If not it can cause emotional discomfort for a person. In some cases a defect in the appearance of the nose could be a result of a condition that also affects breathing.
A person may be born with a nose they would like to change or injury may be the cause. To achieve harmony of the face, rhinoplasty is performed.
Rhinoplasty reshapes the nose, changing the look of the nasal structure.
The Surgery Process
Rhinoplasty is the most complex of plastic surgery procedures and also one of the most common. Some goals that patients have undergone rhinoplasty for are to remove a hump, alter the angle between the nose and the mouth, reduce the size, or widen or shrink the nostrils.
Since the nose is vital to the function of breathing, it is important that any surgeon performing rhinoplasty understand that cosmetic changes can alter nasal function. The same delicate balance must be maintained when trying to correct function as the primary cause of surgery.
Performed as an outpatient procedure, rhinoplasty surgery takes approximately two to four hours under general anesthesia. One of two techniques is used. Closed rhinoplasty involves the placement of incisions inside the nostrils as the surgeon reshapes the nose.
This hides any scars that may result. During open rhinoplasty an incision is made across the narrow strip of tissue separating the nostrils, known as the columella. Open rhinoplasty allows the doctor greater access as the skin is lifted to reveal the underlying bone and cartilage. The skin is re-draped after changes to the structure have been made and the incision is closed with sutures.
Following surgery, a splint or cast may be applied to help maintain the new shape of the nose. Sutures are removed in about a week. Absorbable sutures used inside the nose for closed rhinoplasty do not need to be removed. Swelling and bruising will occur around the nose and under the eyes.
Bruising should disappear in under five days, but swelling will take longer. While the majority of swelling will dissipate in a matter of weeks, minor swelling is still present for 12-24 months.
What is a Rhinoplasty?
A Rhinoplasty, sometimes referred to as a Nose Job, is a surgical procedure designed to improve the shape and size of the nose. This procedure will make the nose more proportionate to the facial features, as well as restore nasal function.
Are there different types of Rhinoplasty?
A Rhinoplasty can be performed through two methods. A Closed Rhinoplasty utilizes incisions inside of the nostrils; this method is reserved for the least complicated nasal corrections. An Open Rhinoplasty employs an outward incision at the base of the nose; this is the most commonly performed technique.
How is the Rhinoplasty performed?
A Closed Rhinoplasty begins with an incision inside of each nostril. From here, minor changes to the nasal bridge or shape of the nostrils can be performed. Once sutured, a Closed Rhinoplasty does not leave any visible scars.
An Open Rhinoplasty starts with a Columellar incision at the base of the nose (between the nostrils). The skin is lifted; Dr. Kessler can visualize the nasal structures and make adjustments as necessary. The skin is then repositioned and sutured closed. A very small scar will occur at the incision site.
Who is a good candidate for Rhinoplasty?
The best candidate for a Rhinoplasty is a man or woman, in good health, struggling with a nose that is out of proportion with their facial features, is misshapen, or has chronic congestion.
Where is the Rhinoplasty performed?
Dr. Kessler performs his Rhinoplasty procedure at the Star Point Surgery Center, on an outpatient basis.
What type of anesthesia is used during a Rhinoplasty?
A Rhinoplasty is normally performed under general anesthesia.
How long does a Rhinoplasty take?
Depending on the needs of each specific patient, a Rhinoplasty will take between one and three hours to complete.
What can I expect from the Rhinoplasty recovery period?
Patients should expect the recovery time after a Rhinoplasty to take between one and two weeks. Swelling and bruising are common, but the majority will resolve over the two to three weeks; some swelling may linger for up to 12 months. Mild to moderate discomfort may be experienced; Dr. Kessler will prescribe the appropriate pain medications to keep patients comfortable while healing.
When can I return to work after a Rhinoplasty?
Patients normally feel well enough, and are comfortable with their appearance, to return to work or school within a week of their Rhinoplasty.
Will there be scarring after my Rhinoplasty?
A Closed Rhinoplasty does not leave any visible scars. The Open Rhinoplasty does result in a small scar at the front base of the nose. This is well concealed within the natural curvature of the nose.
What are the risks of a Rhinoplasty?
The Rhinoplasty procedure is considered safe and effective. On the rare occasion that complications occur, these can include excessive bleeding, infection, and scarring.
Can I finance my Rhinoplasty?
Dr. Kessler is proud to offer patients the option of medical financing through CareCredit. Easy to apply for online, an acceptance will be immediate, and patients can start using their line of credit right away.