Nose surgery can restore balance and harmony to the entire face with just a few subtle changes, but whether you are aiming for large- or small-scale changes, it is essential for you to understand your options clearly.
Top Options in Rhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty typically enhances the size or length of the nose, reshapes or repositions the nosetip, or reduces a nasal "hump." While some rhinoplasties involve large-scale improvements, plenty of others involve only small, subtle changes.
Typically, rhinoplasty begins with adjustment to the internal structure of the nose, followed by steps to reshape the soft tissues and cartilage. The two basic approaches:
• Open rhinoplasty – The surgeon creates a small incision between the nostrils and lifts the soft tissues as one unit, allowing for full visibility for structural changes. This technique is a favorite for reducing a nasal "hump," correcting a deviated septum, or creating other large-scale changes to the deep structure of the nose.
• Closed rhinoplasty – The surgeon performs structural adjustments to the nose through an incision at the inside of the nostril, then makes any soft-tissue corrections. Some surgeons have experience applying this technique even for large-scale adjustments, but typically it is better suited for smaller changes. Recently, surgeons have also found that for patients with a higher ratio of soft tissue to cartilage in the nose, injectable fillers can add length and definition without the need for surgery.
Is It Right for You?
A fully qualified plastic surgeon is the only person who can determine if rhinoplasty is right for you, but in general most patients choose rhinoplasty because they feel self-conscious about their nose and want a more balanced appearance.
Good candidates are in stable mental and physical health, with no significant circulatory disorders or other problems that would impede surgery. They should also be aware that rhinoplasty is a very slow-healing surgery, and while superficial healing and results are apparent within just weeks, results will continue to develop for as long as a year afterward.
Tips for Better Results
• Underdo it. A quality rhinoplasty will not aim to give you an "ideal" nose, but instead will help bring your nose's natural, unique characteristics into balance with the rest of your features.
• Choose a plastic surgeon board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Also pay special attention to whether your doctor has received certification or training in craniofacial surgery, otolaryngology, aesthetic facial surgery, or other subspecialties that require an advanced knowledge of surgical techniques for the head and face.
• Don't settle for cheaper approaches or a less-qualified doctor simply because of price concerns. Rhinoplasties are some of the most complex cosmetic surgeries available, and revision surgery is notoriously challenging.
• Be on the lookout for a surgeon who performs a high number of revisions of other rhinoplasty surgeons' work. Someone with proven skills in complex revision surgeries is more likely to meet your needs thoroughly the first time around.
Top Options in Rhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty typically enhances the size or length of the nose, reshapes or repositions the nosetip, or reduces a nasal "hump." While some rhinoplasties involve large-scale improvements, plenty of others involve only small, subtle changes.
Typically, rhinoplasty begins with adjustment to the internal structure of the nose, followed by steps to reshape the soft tissues and cartilage. The two basic approaches:
• Open rhinoplasty – The surgeon creates a small incision between the nostrils and lifts the soft tissues as one unit, allowing for full visibility for structural changes. This technique is a favorite for reducing a nasal "hump," correcting a deviated septum, or creating other large-scale changes to the deep structure of the nose.
• Closed rhinoplasty – The surgeon performs structural adjustments to the nose through an incision at the inside of the nostril, then makes any soft-tissue corrections. Some surgeons have experience applying this technique even for large-scale adjustments, but typically it is better suited for smaller changes. Recently, surgeons have also found that for patients with a higher ratio of soft tissue to cartilage in the nose, injectable fillers can add length and definition without the need for surgery.
Is It Right for You?
A fully qualified plastic surgeon is the only person who can determine if rhinoplasty is right for you, but in general most patients choose rhinoplasty because they feel self-conscious about their nose and want a more balanced appearance.
Good candidates are in stable mental and physical health, with no significant circulatory disorders or other problems that would impede surgery. They should also be aware that rhinoplasty is a very slow-healing surgery, and while superficial healing and results are apparent within just weeks, results will continue to develop for as long as a year afterward.
Tips for Better Results
• Underdo it. A quality rhinoplasty will not aim to give you an "ideal" nose, but instead will help bring your nose's natural, unique characteristics into balance with the rest of your features.
• Choose a plastic surgeon board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Also pay special attention to whether your doctor has received certification or training in craniofacial surgery, otolaryngology, aesthetic facial surgery, or other subspecialties that require an advanced knowledge of surgical techniques for the head and face.
• Don't settle for cheaper approaches or a less-qualified doctor simply because of price concerns. Rhinoplasties are some of the most complex cosmetic surgeries available, and revision surgery is notoriously challenging.
• Be on the lookout for a surgeon who performs a high number of revisions of other rhinoplasty surgeons' work. Someone with proven skills in complex revision surgeries is more likely to meet your needs thoroughly the first time around.
