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The nose has been called the "signpost of the face". A nose that is out of balance with other facial features can be corrected. A skilled facial plastic surgeon is also an artist, as he/she uses his/her talents, training and experience to create a nose that matches an individual patient's face.
Rhinoplasty surgery is performed on people of all ages. Teenaged girls are usually ready to have the surgery after their 15th birthday; for boys they generally must be at least 16.
Sometimes a nose looks out of balance because the chin is too small. In this case, Dr. Kent, a facial plastic surgeon in Naples, may recommend a chin implant.
A chin implant can also add to a face-lifting procedure since a recessive chin can exaggerate jowling. An implant can also be used with a rhinoplasty procedure.
Nose Surgery FAQs:
What is nose surgery?
Nose surgery, also referred to as rhinoplasty, is a cosmetic surgery procedure able to improve the appearance of the nose, often to bring it into balance with the other facial features. Nose surgery can reshape the nose by minimizing or increasing the overall size, removing a hump, narrowing the span of the nostrils, change the angle between the nose and the upper lip, or changing the shape of the tip or the bridge of the nose. Nose surgery can also help to relieve some breathing problems.
Who is the best candidate for nose surgery?
Good candidates for nose surgery include men and women who are looking to improve the appearance and/or function of the nose. Patients should also be physically healthy and realistic in their expectations.
Are there any age restrictions for undergoing nose surgery?
It's generally advised that nose surgery be postponed on younger patients until the nose has completed growth. Girls are usually ready for surgery around the age of 15 and boys around the age of 16.
What can I expect during a consultation for nose surgery?
During a consultation for nose surgery, you will have a one-one-one discussion with the surgeon about your goals. The nose will be examined, a thorough medical history taken, and your options discussed. All details of the nose surgery procedure will be explained including the technique, the facility, the anesthesia, the recovery, the risks and the costs. The surgeon may suggest other procedures that can help to achieve your goals. For instance, a chin implant may be recommended if a small chin is making the nose appear larger and out of balance. Computerized video imaging may be used to give you a realistic idea of the changes that can and cannot be accomplished nose surgery.
Where is nose surgery performed?
Nose surgery is often performed in a surgeon's office-based surgical facility though it may also take place in an outpatient surgical center or a hospital.
What type of anesthesia is used for nose surgery?
Nose surgery is often performed with twilight anesthesia though general anesthesia may be used as well.
How is the actual nose surgery procedure performed?
Nose surgery begins by making incisions, after which the skin of the nose is separated from the bone and cartilage that lie beneath. These are then sculpted to the desired shape, the skin is redraped over the new framework of the nose, and the incisions are closed.
How long does the actual nose surgery procedure last?
Nose surgery generally takes one to two hours to complete.
Where are the incisions made for nose surgery?
There are two possible incision placements for nose surgery. In what is referred to as closed rhinoplasty, the incisions are made on the inside of the nose only. For open rhinoplasty, incisions are made inside of the nose along with a small incision that is made between the nostrils on the underside of the nose.
Will I have scars after undergoing nose surgery?
If your nose surgery is a closed rhinoplasty procedure, you will have no visible scarring as all incisions are confined to the inside of the nose. For open rhinoplasty procedures, the small incision made on the underside of the nose between the nostrils will result in a scar though it tends to be well concealed.
Is the nose surgery procedure painful?
After nose surgery, the head and nose may ache at first. Pain medication can be prescribed to help control any discomfort that you experience.
Will I need someone to help me out at home after undergoing nose surgery?
It's best to arrange for a competent adult to stay with you for the first night after undergoing nose surgery. If necessary, the surgeon's office may be able to arrange for overnight accommodations and someone to stay with you.
What is the recovery like after nose surgery?
Recovery after nose surgery will vary for each individual patient and the details of recovery will be discussed at the time of consultation. In general, however, patients can experience some swelling and bruising around the eyes. The majority of the swelling fades within about two weeks though it can take as much as a year for some remaining, subtle swelling to fade. Some bleeding may occur. Nasal packing, if used, is typically removed within a few days while dressings and splints are removed within one to two weeks.
How much time will I need to take off from work after undergoing nose surgery?
Patients usually need to take one to two weeks off from work after undergoing nose surgery.
When can I exercise after undergoing nose surgery?
Exercise can usually be resumed within about two to three weeks after nose surgery, though patients will need to avoid sunburn and hitting the nose for about eight weeks.
When are the stitches removed after nose surgery?
The stitches are usually removed in about one to two weeks after nose surgery.
What are the risks or complications associated with nose surgery?
The potential complications associated with nose surgery may include adverse anesthesia reactions, incomplete improvement, infection, small burst blood vessels, and the need for additional surgery.
Does insurance cover the cost of nose surgery?
Nose surgery that is elective and performed for purely cosmetic purposes is typically not covered by insurance. When used for reconstructive purposes or to correct a breathing problem or deformity, some degree of coverage may be available. |
