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Rhinoplasty
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Quick Facts about Rhinoplasty
Medical Name: Rhinoplasty
Estimated Cost: $3,000 - $6,000
Type of Anesthesia: Local, General
Total Recovery Time: 2-4 Weeks, Down Time 3-7 Days
Procedure Location: Hospital, Plastic Surgery Center
Practitioner: Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
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Rhinoplasty, most often referred to as a nose job, is one of the four most common forms of plastic surgery. It is a surgical procedure to reshape the nose by reducing or increasing the size, changing the shape of the tip or the bridge, narrowing the span of the nostrils or altering the angle of the nose and the upper lip.
Rhinoplasty can be used for cosmetic reasons, to correct a birth defect or injury or relieve breathing problems. In 2005, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), 200,924 people had Rhinoplasty surgery.
Did You Know?
In approximately 10% of all rhinoplasty procedures, a second surgery is needed before the desired affects are obtained or the deformity is completely corrected. This is true even with highly reputable plastic surgeons.
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THE RHINOPLASTY PROCEDURE
Rhinoplasty is performed on an outpatient basis in a plastic surgery center or hospital with local or general anesthesia. The method chosen depends on the complexity of the procedure and the patient's medical history. Nose surgery generally lasts one to two hours.
The surgeon lifts the skin of the nose from the nasal framework and sculpts the bone and cartilage to create the desired shape. The skin is refitted over the new framework and closed with tiny absorbable stitches. A small splint is applied to help the nose heal in its new shape and in some cases, soft supports or packs are applied to support the septum.
Following surgery the patient may experience puffiness, swelling and minor bruising around the nose and eye areas, which will begin to subside after two or three days. Nose blowing should be avoided for several days to allow the tissue time to heal. Nasal packing will be removed after a few days and stitches will be removed within two weeks.
RHINOPLASTY PROCEDURE OPTIONS
Three common techniques are used in rhinoplasty surgery: standard rhinoplasty, open rhinoplasty and tip plasty. The procedure is determined by the nasal structure and the complexity of the surgery.
Standard Rhinoplasty
Using the standard procedure, several incisions are made inside the nostrils. The bone and cartilage of the nose are altered to achieve the desired contour of the nose.
Open Rhinoplasty
Open rhinoplasty is used for large noses or difficult procedures. A small incision is made in the columella, the fleshy column between the nostrils, allowing the nasal skin to be lifted from the tip of the nose. The bone and cartilage are sculpted to create the desired shape and size of the nose.
Tip Plasty
Used when the tip of the nose is the only area to be surgically treated. With tip plasty, the surgeon may elect to use either the standard or open surgical method.
Types of Surgery
Increase or Reduce Size: This surgery will alter the width of the bridge, span of the nostrils or change the angle between the nose and upper lip.
Remove a Hump or Point: Straightening a hump on the bridge of the nose is one of the most common procedures. Another common procedure is to remove a point at the tip of the nose to make it appear less angular or obtrusive.
Correct a Birth Defect or Relieve Breathing Problems: Rhinoplasty surgery can successfully correct abnormally small nasal passages and common birth defects such as a crooked nose or separation of the bone, deviated septum or detached cartilage.
IS A RHINOPLASTY RIGHT FOR YOU?
Ideal Candidate for Rhinoplasty
The ideal candidate is in good physical condition, is mentally stable and has realistic expectations of what can be achieved with rhinoplasty surgery. Candidates should be at least sixteen years of age, past the point of growth spurts. All age groups over sixteen can achieve excellent results, but younger patients tend to heal more quickly.
Other Considerations for Rhinoplasty
The most important issue to consider is whether a person is emotionally, mentally and physically able to undergo the procedure and recuperation period. It is especially important that teenagers understand the surgery procedure and recovery process prior to treatment.
At your initial consultation, the surgeon will discuss the options, risks and limitations of each technique and make recommendations based on your choices, expectations and medical history. The surgeon will review your pre-surgery preparation instructions, the procedure process including anesthesia and the expected results and post-surgery instructions for maximum recovery. Make sure you discuss all of your questions and specific health issues with your plastic surgeon.
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RHINOPLASTY PROCEDURE COST
Fees vary from state to state and from one plastic surgeon to another. The cost is based upon the type of surgery needed and the extensiveness of the procedure. Prices range from $3,000 to over $5000 for rhinoplasty and include surgeon, facility and anesthesia fees. Other important factors determining the final cost may include pre-operative lab fees and post-operative expenses such as prescriptions.
Note: A more expensive surgery price does not necessarily ensure a more skilled practitioner. You should ask for referrals and review testimonials before choosing a practitioner.
RHINOPLASTY PROS & CONS
Pros
| Aesthetic improvement can be achieved in a short period of time; changes are permanent |
| Effective repair of an injury or birth defect |
| Improvement of breathing by opening up nasal passages |
| Feeling good about one's appearance by removing bumps and crookedness
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Cons
| Mild to medium discomfort and nose bleeding for a few days; swelling and bruising for up to two weeks |
| Patients expecting the "perfect nose" may be disappointed; improvement, not perfection, should be the patient's goal |
| Additional surgery may be necessary if the procedure is complex or the desired result is not achieved; this is rare, but a possibility |
| Taking time off from work, ranging from three to eight days
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ASK A PLASTIC SURGEON ABOUT RHINOPLASTY - FAQ
Is rhinoplasty safe?
As one of the oldest and most popular forms of plastic surgery, rhinoplasty ranks as one of the safest and most common procedures in the area of plastic surgery. If doctor's orders are followed, the risk of infection or other complications are minimal.
Is rhinoplasty permanent?
If the outcome is satisfactory to the patient and surgeon, rhinoplasty can be permanent. If, however, the desired result is not achieved, another surgery may be needed. Complex surgeries may need further procedural work.
Do I need a general or local anesthetic?
This depends on the area treated, the procedure used and the patient's preference. Either one can be used, but with the more complex procedures, general anesthesia is usually chosen. The patient's health condition and response to painkillers and sedation are also taken into account.
How extensive is the operation?
This depends on the type of surgery the patient requires. Complex "open" surgeries are extensive with significant skin and bone modification and movement, while other procedures are not as intensive or extensive. Consult your physician about the scope of the surgery once a particular procedure is chosen.
What is the recovery time?
This depends on the patient and the type of surgery. Typically, swelling, bruising and associated pain peak after three days. The area will remain sensitive for up to two weeks and in some cases moderate swelling and bruising can last for a few months. A patient will need three to five days to recuperate, resulting in a week of absence from work.
What postoperative instructions are standard?
Patients will receive a list of postoperative instructions including hygiene, exercise, diet and activity specific instructions. Patients are always warned to avoid sunburn and to avoid nose blowing for the first week, as aggravation to the wound slows the healing process.
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