RHINOPLASTY

Most people associate rhinoplasty, or nose reshaping surgery, with cosmetic reasons to enhance the appearance of the nose, but it can also be used for medical reasons. When patients suffer from a deviated septum or a nasal fracture that hinders breathing, rhinoplasty can be performed at the Aesthetic Center of Gainesville. The board-certified plastic surgeons can repair the form and function of the nose through tissue, skin, and bone manipulation to achieve a patient’s goals. For cosmetic reasons, our plastic surgeons can fix noses that are too large, too wide, bumpy, or crooked. After nose surgery, a patient is left with more proportionate features and greater facial harmony.

OPEN RHINOPLASTY

Many surgeons prefer the open rhinoplasty approach during nose surgery because they can gain a better view and better access to the inside of the nose. The incision using this approach is made on the skin between the nostrils or under the nose near the nostrils. Once the incision is made, the skin is moved back to allow access to the internal structures. The incision lines, which heal nicely leaving scars barely visible, are fairly small and usually measure between 2-3 mm.  

CLOSED RHINOPLASTY

The closed rhinoplasty technique is used on noses that have features that are easily corrected. It is commonly used when the tip of the nose has good shape and is not too long, too wide, over or under projected. The incision during this approach is not visible after surgery because it is made on the inside of the nose

Rhinoplasty is performed under general anesthesia in an accredited surgical facility and typically takes around 1-2 hours to complete. It is considered an outpatient procedure. After surgery, patients will wear a nose splint and will experience bruising and swelling around the nose and eyes. Once the bandages and splint are removed, the nose will look normal, but it may take longer for the bruising to subside completely. It can take up to a full year for the nose to gain its final contour and softness.  

ARE SURGERY FEARS NORMAL?

Yes, and this fear is always elevated when surgery involves the face. However, more than 350,000 people in the U.S. undergo rhinoplasty each year making it one of the most common cosmetic surgeries. One way to help calm your fears is to make sure you find a reputable and skilled surgeon that has extensive experience with nose surgery. 

WILL NOSE BE BROKEN?

About half of rhinoplasty patients will benefit from a manual nasal fracture during surgery. This planned break allows access to perform certain functions during surgery such as narrowing the width of the nose or correcting an asymmetrical nose. This is a common practice and heals within just a few weeks following surgery.   

WHAT IS A NASAL PACK?

Nasal packing is the insertion of gauze and/or cotton packs into the nasal chamber after surgery. These are used to control bleeding, but are not necessary 100% of the time. They are generally used if the surgery includes the septum. 

IS SURGERY THE ONLY ANSWER?

Noses that are too large or too wide, or have a specific deformity may only be able to be enhanced through nose surgery. However, the look of some noses may be able to be enhanced using an injectable filler such as collagen, calcium hydroxyapatite, or fat taken from another part of the body, “injection rhinoplasty” may be an option before resorting to surgery. This is an in-office procedure that can help to soften and camouflage a bump, alter the tip of the nose, and smooth out irregularities.   

Whether you’re looking for a subtle change or a drastic overhaul, our team of professionals work closely with you to give you the nose of your dreams. We are trained in some of the best and most advanced techniques to accomplish a successful rhinoplasty surgery. To find out more, contact us today to schedule a consultation.