Nose Surgery (Rhinoplasty)
In a prominent position in the very middle of our faces, it is impossible to hide our nose. Unfortunately, many people are unhappy with at least one cosmetic aspect of their nose, and this can alter the way that they feel about themselves as a whole. Make-up can be used to try and alter its appearance, but often this has limited success, which of course is only temporary. The only way to make any permanent change is to go under the knife and have nose surgery. This extremely popular cosmetic procedure is known as a rhinoplasty.
Rhinoplasty is well known as being one of the most complex forms of cosmetic surgery since even the smallest alterations to the shape, size or overall look of the nose can dramatically alter a person’s appearance. The goal of rhinoplasty is to make subtle yet effective changes to the appearance of the nose that ensure that it is in proportion with other facial features, yet also address the patient’s concerns. Ultimately, the improvements should look subtle so natural that whilst you look a little different to before, it is impossible for others around you to tell why.
We are delighted to offer nose surgery performed by our experienced and skilled surgeon, Dr. Davila, at our Houston Cosmetic Surgery Center.
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TYPES OF RHINOPLASTY
Every patient that comes into our cosmetic surgery center is unique and so too are their noses. This makes every nose surgery a little different, but most fall into one of the following categories which represent different types of rhinoplasty.
REDUCTION RHINOPLASTY
Many people feel that their nose is too large and prominent, particularly when compared to their other facial features. For these patients, a reduction rhinoplasty may be the most appropriate form of nose surgery. Unsurprisingly, the techniques used are designed to make the nose smaller than before whilst making sure that it retains its defining features. This is done by removing some of the natural bone and cartilage. Some patients may require a little reshaping of the bridge and tip to keep it in proportion with the rest of their face.
AUGMENTATION RHINOPLASTY
Augmentation rhinoplasty focuses on rebuilding the shape of the nose. To do this, bone and cartilage are taken from another part of your body and grafted onto the main structure of your nose. In doing so, the nasal cavities will be opened up, enabling greater flow of air in and out of the respiratory system via the nose. For this reason, augmentation rhinoplasty is usually suggested for patients who have naturally flat noses, or noses that have been damaged by a traumatic injury.
SEPTORHINOPLASTY
The natural nose has a small area of cartilage separating the nostrils. This cartilage is called the septum. Septorhinoplasty is the name given to the procedure that is used to correct issues with the septum, such as a deviated septum. Again, septorhinoplasty is an effective treatment for patients who have a flattened nose and are finding that their breathing is compromised.
RHINOTIP RHINOPLASTY
Some patients are largely happy with the appearance of their nose, but there is a small aspect that they would like to change. Often this is the very tip of the nose, which can turn downwards (known as a hooked nose) or upwards (a snubbed nose). There is a type of rhinoplasty that focuses only on changing the end of the nose, and it is known as rhinotip.
The complexity of rhinoplasty procedures means that they are all carried out under general anesthetic. Since the use of general anesthetic does carry some risks, you will need to undergo an assessment to check your suitability for this before you can be approved for a rhinoplasty.
HEALING AFTER RHINOPLASTY
You should expect to spend at least one night in our care following your rhinoplasty procedure. This is so that we can check that the general anesthetic has completely worn off and that you have had no adverse effects from it, and so that we can monitor the very earliest part of your rhinoplasty recovery. Initially, your nose will be covered with a dressing and will feel tight and sore. You may find that this pain extends across your face and that you notice bruising and swelling around your nose, eyes, and cheeks. Prescription pain relief will be given to you to help manage your discomfort and it is important that you take this as directed to prevent you from suffering unnecessarily. You will also be given specific instructions about the best way to care for your nose during your recovery, including advice on things that you should and shouldn’t do. Following these will reduce your risk of post-surgical complications and help ensure that you achieve the best result from your procedure.
You should prepare to take at least a week away from work initially, during which time you can recover. If you have a fairly physical job, you may need to allow for longer and this will be discussed with you at your consultation. It is important to bear in mind that it can take several weeks for the bruising to fade completely and several months for the swelling to subside and the final result from your procedure to be visible.
If you are considering nose surgery and would like more information about what to expect, or if you would like to make an appointment to discuss your suitability for the procedure, please get in touch with our compassionate and dedicated team by calling our Houston Cosmetic Surgery Center today.