Nose Reshaping (Rhinoplasty)

Who is a candidate for nose reshaping?

Anyone dissatisfied with the size, shape or contour of their nose is a candidate for nose reshaping, or rhinoplasty. While a popular cosmetic procedure, nose reshaping can also correct structural abnormalities like a deviated septum, which can lead to breathing problems, chronic stuffiness, post-nasal drip and even snoring.

How is the procedure done?

Nose reshaping is one of the most functionally and conceptually complex procedures when compared to other surgeries of the face and body. The sculpting of the nose must be highly individualized to complement your other facial features. Specifics of this procedure vary greatly depending upon patient needs. Bumps can be eliminated, nostril shape may be changed, and the bridge can be lowered or raised. The tip of the nose can be turned up or down and reduced or enlarged. Sometimes it is necessary to graft a bone or cartilage to the nasal structure. Depending upon your situation the procedure will be either “open” or “closed.” In an open rhinoplasty a small incision is made in the tissue between the nostrils. In a closed rhinoplasty the procedure is totally internal.

The procedure typically takes two to three hours and is done on an outpatient basis. Local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia is used.

Recuperation

You may wake up with a splint, some packing in your nose and a drip pad for drainage. You can expect to be swollen, bruised and stuffed up. Your cheeks and jaw may be sore. Oral medications will keep you comfortable. With the exception of exercise, you can resume your normal routine in seven to ten days. Dressing and packing are removed after three to seven days. The splint is removed after one week. In two to four weeks much of the swelling has improved and the nose continues to progress toward its ultimate shape in 12 to 18 months.

Click here for post operative instructions using your password.

Other Options

Depending upon your facial proportions and profile, nose reshaping is sometimes paired with a chin implant. It may also be recommended you consider augmentation of your cheeks, jaw or lips for the best result. State of the art computer imaging available at Bay Area Aesthetic Surgery will help you visualize your options. Click here for facial implants

A word about financing…
Rhinoplasty, or nose reshaping can be made very affordable through our partners at Care Credit. Visit them at www.carecredit.com. Deborah would be happy to assist you in completing the necessary paperwork for approval.

Insurance Notes:
Insurance policies vary widely, but if there is a true breathing problem Dr. Beck will act within the stipulations of your coverage if possible.

Ask Dr. Beck

Q:	*I want a nose like Julia Roberts. Can you do that?*
A:	Years ago noses were fashion statements. A “Roman” nose, a “bobbed” nose. Today proportion is the key. To copy a celebrity nose may not be the right thing for you considering your other facial features. Your nose is the most prominent part of your profile and it should be highly individualized and in relation to your overall appearance.

Q:	*Will you have to break my nose?*
A:	No, this is a myth. In nose surgery today, the smallest possible instruments are used to cut and shape structures of the nose including the bone. Bone re-molding will depend on your initial shape. It is often used when there is a substantial reduction required of the hump on the nose or to narrow a wide bridge.

Q:	Why did the last surgeon I consulted with want me to have more than just a “nose job?”
A:	It is very common to consider other procedures along with nose surgery to achieve optimal facial harmony. Chin implants and cheek augmentation are the most popular options. Your surgeon may also demonstrate how procedures of the lower eyelid, neck lift or even ear set back could improve overall results. Remember, it is ultimately your decision as to the look you desire.

Q:	*Do you use an open or closed technique?*
A:	Each technique has valuable aspects in nose reshaping. If the tip of the nose is the focus of the surgery, then open rhinoplasty is the preferred technique. On the other hand, if the dorsum of the nose is the focus, a closed approach is preferred. In our practice, we perform whichever procedure will give us the best result. It is important to have the knowledge and technical skill to be flexible in any approach to the nose, or for that matter, anywhere on the body.

Q:	*My friend looked awful after her surgery. Can you help me heal better?*
A:	Anytime there is trauma to the nose, you will experience bruising and swelling around the immediate area. Some patients are more resistant than others. Your friend probably looked worse than she felt, but in any case there are herbal supplements such as arnica that can indeed help. It is also important to sleep upright for the first week and use cold compresses to reduce the swelling. More or less swelling and bruising is no indication of the overall success of the surgery or surgical skill.

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