Rhinoplasty
The nose is the central focal point of the face. Proper nasal proportion and aesthetics, or the lack thereof, can be perceived not only by an individual, but often subconsciously by those with whom he or she interacts. Individuals who are unhappy with the shape or size of their nose often consider cosmetic enhancement for a long time. Rhinoplasty from our Charleston plastic surgeon can help turn those aesthetic dreams into a reality.
What is Rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty, commonly referred to as a “nose job,” is a procedure designed to enhance the appearance (or sometimes function) of the nose by creating a more proportionate nasal framework in relation to your surrounding facial features. Surgery can make the nose larger or smaller, as well as adjust the shape of the bridge, tip, or nostrils. The procedure can also correct damage caused by injury and breathing abnormalities resulting from deformed internal nasal structures. Patients who undergo rhinoplasty can achieve a more harmonious facial balance, resulting in improvements to their overall facial appearance.
Open Rhinoplasty vs. Closed Rhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty is primarily performed using either the “open” or “closed” technique. With an open approach, the incision is placed in the narrowest area between the nostrils (known as the columella) for optimal precision and control over the surgical outcome. The closed technique places the incision internally; this approach has the benefit of leaving no external scar. However, there may not be as much visibility and control over the procedure, as is afforded by the open technique. Both methods can produce natural-looking results and a more favorable facial balance. The most beneficial approach for your unique anatomy and cosmetic goals can be determined during a consultation.
How is the Rhinoplasty Procedure Performed?
The average length of rhinoplasty surgery is one to three hours. To maximize the results of the surgery, rhinoplasty is sometimes performed in conjunction with other procedures, including cheek implants or chin augmentation. Combining these procedures will increase the duration of surgery. If you are considering nose surgery, it is important to go into the surgery with realistic expectations.
During your rhinoplasty consultation at Plastic Surgery of the Carolinas, you will meet with our team one-on-one to discuss your cosmetic goals. At this time, Dr. Craig Rowin will be able to communicate what can and cannot be achieved with rhinoplasty surgery. Taking your unique anatomical features into account, he will develop a treatment plan that can achieve a more harmonious facial balance in relation to the proportions of your other features.
Ethnic Rhinoplasty
Our primary goal for any rhinoplasty procedure is to produce results that appear natural. In order to achieve this natural look, the unique features and proportions of each individual’s face must be considered. Our team has extensive experience working with patients of different ethnicities (including African-American, Latino, Asian, and Middle Eastern), and we aim to address each rhinoplasty patient’s functional and cosmetic concerns while paying special attention to ethnicity for results that are harmonious with the patient’s natural facial features.
Revision Rhinoplasty
If you were dissatisfied with the outcome of a previous nose surgery, we offer revision rhinoplasty to improve upon the results of the initial procedure. Whether your concerns are cosmetic or functional (breathing) in nature, we perform secondary rhinoplasty with the goal of attaining results that more closely fulfill your desires for the original surgery. There are a number of reasons why you may consider a revisionary procedure, such as an unsatisfactory initial outcome due to poor healing, a miscommunication with your previous plastic surgeon about your surgical goals, or an injury that may have compromised the results of prior surgery. Regardless of your reasons for pursuing revision rhinoplasty, our team will listen closely to your concerns and recommend whether a secondary procedure can help you achieve your goals. In general, we suggest waiting 9 to 12 months before undergoing additional surgery to allow swelling from primary rhinoplasty to completely subside.
What is Recovery from Rhinoplasty Like?
After the rhinoplasty procedure, patients will typically experience some bruising, swelling, tenderness, and minor discomfort in the nasal area. These symptoms should dissipate as recovery progresses. A splint will be applied during surgery and remain in place for about five to seven days to stabilize the nasal bones as well as facilitate the healing process and minimize swelling. A gauze pad is applied under your nostrils for the first 12 to 24 hours to collect any slight oozing. Our team will provide specific post-operative instructions personally; however, rhinoplasty patients are generally advised to protect the nose from sun exposure for the first year following surgery. Smoking should also be abstained from for at least six weeks before and after the operation. Receiving plenty of rest and limiting movement when possible can typically accelerate the recovery period.
How Much Does Rhinoplasty Cost?
The ultimate price of rhinoplasty will be determined by a number of factors unique to each patient’s treatment plan. These considerations may include:
- The surgical technique utilized
- Whether your procedure was a revision rhinoplasty
- The extent of concerns addressed
- The complexity of the procedure
Once your needs are known during a consultation, our office will be able to provide you with a personalized quote of your rhinoplasty expenses. If you are interested in paying for your treatment over time rather than in a lump sum, we work with CareCredit® to make the cost of nose surgery more manageable. This highly reputable healthcare lending company offers qualified applicants a range of payment plans with low monthly installments and interest-free options to suit their budgetary concerns. If you have any questions about our accepted payment methods or financing options, please reach out to our practice to speak to a friendly member of our team.
For more information about rhinoplasty, or to schedule a consultation, please contact Plastic Surgery of the Carolinas today.
