The shape of the nose is the focal point of a person’s facial structure. Nasal symmetry in proportion to the rest of the face can define facial balance, and a crooked or asymmetrical nose can affect your entire appearance in a way that you may not like. Fortunately, it is possible to correct the shape of the nose with rhinoplasty surgery.
What Is Rhinoplasty and What Can It Do?
Rhinoplasty is surgery of the nose used to enhance its shape and/or functionality. People born with nasal defects or who have suffered an injury on the nose can also opt for rhinoplasty to correct its shape.
This procedure can reduce enlarged nostrils, remove depressions on the bridge of the nose, or correct the shape of the tip. Rhinoplasty can correct bulbous or upturned noses. The surgery can make the shape of the nose more ideal for your facial profile. With rhinoplasty, it is possible to have a more perfect nose.
Rhinoplasty is also done for medical reasons, such as to correct a deviated septum that can affect a person’s breathing. The septum is the structure inside the nose that separates it into two parts. Any defect or deviation in this structure can cause breathing troubles.
The Rhinoplasty Procedure and What to Expect
If you smoke, you will need to refrain from the habit before rhinoplasty and during the healing process, since smoking can increase bleeding risks during surgery. The same applies to use of blood-thinning and pain medicines.
You can opt for general anesthesia or local anesthesia with IV sedation when undergoing rhinoplasty; general anesthesia is usually preferred.
The incisions for the surgery can be made inside the nostrils (closed procedure) or outside on the skin between the nostrils (open procedure). Dr. Feng will decide on the incision placement depending on the needs of the surgery. The doctor accesses the nasal structure through these incisions.
The cartilage, bones, and other nasal components is then reshaped. Cartilage may be removed or added. The doctor may use cartilage grafts from the septum, ear, or rib. The nostrils may be reduced or altered using incisions in the creases by the side of the nose. These incisions remain hidden, as they are made on the existing creases. Once the nose has been altered as desired, Dr. Feng closes the incisions.
Rhinoplasty Recovery and Results
Much of the post-surgical swelling around the nose subsides in a week or two after the procedure is done. You will need to get plenty of rest during the healing process. Avoid physically taxing activities until you are cleared to resume them.
Within two to three weeks, once the new nasal structure and shape become fully refined after complete surgical healing, you can be out and about again and can show off your results. The results from the surgery are long-lasting.
Choosing Dr. Feng
Rhinoplasty is a complex surgery. Only a fully qualified plastic surgeon can perform it properly. Make sure to consult with Dr. Lu-Jean Feng, a board-certified and experienced plastic surgeon, before the procedure.
It is important to discuss your surgery expectations openly with Dr. Feng. After examining your nasal structure and your medical history, the doctor will determine if rhinoplasty is the ideal option.
To set up your rhinoplasty consultation with Dr. Feng, contact our office today.
