Rhinoplasty
(Nose Surgery)

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Rhinoplasty, or nose surgery, is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures. Every year, half a million people interested in improving the appearance of their noses seek consultation with facial plastic surgeons. Some are unhappy with the noses they were born with, and others with the way aging has changed their nose. For others, an injury may have distorted the nose, or the goal may be improved breathing. However, one thing is clear: nothing significantly impacts how a person looks more than the size and shape of the nose.

Because the nose is the most defining characteristic of the face, a slight alteration can significantly improve one’s appearance. Successful facial plastic surgery results from good rapport between patient and surgeon. Trust develops in the consulting stages before surgery based on realistic expectations and exacting medical expertise. Your rhinoplasty surgeon can answer specific questions about your particular needs. Dr. Moreano is a board-certified plastic surgeon who has performed numerous rhinoplasty procedures for patients in NYC and strives to offer results that look beautiful and natural.

 

Is Rhinoplasty for You?

Good health and realistic expectations are prerequisites for all facial plastic surgery. Understanding rhinoplasty surgery is also critical. The goal is to improve the nose aesthetically, making it harmonize better with other facial features. Skin type, ethnic background, and age are important factors to consider in discussions with your surgeon before surgery.

Before the nose is altered, a young patient must reach full growth, usually around age 15 or 16, except in cases where breathing is severely impaired. Rhinoplasty can address a variety of aesthetic issues, including a bulbous or hooked nasal tip, noticeable bumps on the nasal bridge, and large or asymmetrical nostrils. It can also completely redefine the nose’s appearance for patients who desire more dramatic results.

Patients may sometimes experience difficulty breathing through the nose due to an obstruction in the nasal cavity or a deviated septum. In these cases, septoplasty can be performed to clear the nasal pathway and help improve breathing. Septoplasty is not the same as cosmetic nose surgery, but it can be combined with aesthetic rhinoplasty for comprehensive care. Before deciding on rhinoplasty in NYC, ask your facial plastic surgeon if additional procedures—like chin augmentation—might be recommended to better balance facial features.

Making the Decision for Rhinoplasty

Choosing a qualified facial plastic surgeon is paramount, whether the surgery is desired for functional or cosmetic reasons. Many facial plastic surgeons are trained in ear, nose, throat, and facial cosmetic surgery, providing patients with the highest level of expertise.

Your surgeon will examine the structure of your nose, both externally and internally, to evaluate what you can expect from rhinoplasty. They will discuss factors that may influence the outcome of the surgery, such as skin type, ethnic background, age, degree of deformity, and nasal function. You can expect a thorough explanation of expectations and potential risks.

Once you and your surgeon decide to proceed, photographs will be taken, and your options will be discussed. The surgeon will explain how nasal bone and cartilage can be sculpted to reshape the nose and may suggest reshaping the chin to enhance results. After reviewing your medical history, your surgeon will provide details about anesthesia, the surgical facility, and the procedure’s cost.

Understanding the Surgery

The definition of rhinoplasty is shaping the nose. First, incisions are made, and the skin of the nose is lifted from its underlying bone and cartilage support system. Most incisions are made inside the nose, where they are invisible. In some cases, an incision is made in the skin separating the nostrils.

Next, specific amounts of underlying bone and cartilage are removed or rearranged to provide a newly shaped structure. For example, when the nose tip is too large, the surgeon can sculpt the cartilage to reduce its size. The angle of the nose relative to the upper lip can also be altered for a more youthful or corrected look.

The skin is then re-draped over the new frame, and the incisions are closed. A splint is applied to the outside of the nose to help retain the new shape while healing occurs. Soft, absorbent material may also be placed inside the nose to maintain stability along the septum. Risk factors in rhinoplasty are generally minor and will be discussed with your surgeon.  

What To Expect After the Surgery

Immediately after surgery, a small splint will be placed on your nose to protect it and keep the structure stable for five to eight days. If packing is placed inside the nose during surgery, it is removed the following morning. Your face may feel puffy, especially on the first day, and pain medication may be required. You’ll be advised to avoid blowing your nose for at least seven days.

In the days following surgery, you may experience bruising and minor swelling around the eyes. Cold compresses often help reduce bruising and discomfort. Absorbable sutures are usually used, and nasal dressings and splints are typically removed after about a week.

It is essential to follow your surgeon’s instructions carefully, especially about keeping your head elevated and avoiding physical exertion. Sun exposure and activities that risk injury must be avoided. If you wear glasses, special arrangements must be made so that they don’t rest on the nose bridge—tape or other devices may be used.

Follow-up care is vital for proper healing. Report anything unusual to your surgeon immediately and keep all scheduled follow-up appointments to ensure the best results.

The Cost of Rhinoplasty in NYC

Insurance does not generally cover purely cosmetic surgery. However, surgery to correct or improve nasal function or surgery for major deformities or injuries may be reimbursable in whole or in part. The patient must check with the insurance carrier for information on the degree of coverage.

Rhinoplasty is a highly personalized surgical procedure. Various techniques and approaches are used based on the specific areas of the nose being addressed and the desired results. During your consultation, Dr. Moreano can discuss the details of your rhinoplasty in NYC and let you know what the expected cost of your procedure will be. We can also discuss the payment and financing options that are available to you.

Schedule a Consultation

Rhinoplasty is a complex surgical procedure that should be performed by a properly trained and experienced plastic surgeon. Dr. Moreano is a board-certified facial plastic surgeon with years of rigorous training. He takes time to understand what your aesthetic goals are and will formulate a personalized surgical plan based on your needs. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment for your rhinoplasty in NYC, or call us at (718) 478-2852.

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