If you’ve ever looked at yourself in photos or a mirror and stared only at your nose, wishing it was different –smaller or another shape– then you’ve likely considered rhinoplasty. Or maybe you have trouble with breathing or snoring due to the natural shape of your nose or after an accident. It’s not as simple as waving a wand over the middle of your face and having a new sniffer; there are many things to consider.
Welcome to our comprehensive guide on what to expect from a rhinoplasty, one of the world’s most popular plastic surgery procedures. This article will provide detailed information on rhinoplasty, including the procedure, recovery and potential risks and benefits.
What’s Rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty, more commonly known as a “nose job,” is a popular cosmetic surgery procedure that can be performed for both aesthetic and functional reasons. This procedure can address a variety of issues, including a bump on the bridge of the nose, a crooked or asymmetrical nose, a drooping or enlarged nasal tip, or a deviated septum. If you’re considering a rhinoplasty, it is important to understand the different types of procedures available and the available options.
Reshaping your nose can improve the overall balance and proportion of your facial features, leading to a more natural and attractive appearance. Many happy patients remark that the benefits of rhinoplasty include improved self-esteem, enhanced facial harmony and improved breathing.
Types of Rhinoplasty
When undergoing a rhinoplasty procedure, there are various options available to you that can help you achieve the desired outcome and ensure your satisfaction with the surgery. The type of rhinoplasty most suitable for you depends on your needs and goals. Let’s take a closer look at all the possible options that you might consider.
Open Rhinoplasty
Open rhinoplasty is a technique that involves making an incision on the columella, the tissue that separates the nostrils. This approach gives your surgeon better visibility and access to the underlying nasal structures, making it easier to reshape the nose during complex procedures and grafting during revisions from previous surgeries that may require reconstruction of the nose.
Closed Rhinoplasty
Closed rhinoplasty is a technique that involves making incisions inside the nostrils. It’s typically used for less complex procedures, such as minor reshaping or refinement of the nose. This approach is used primarily when you’re looking to make more subtle changes and allows for faster resolution of swelling and structural preservation.
Tip Rhinoplasty
Tip rhinoplasty is a procedure that focuses specifically on reshaping the nasal tip. This approach can correct a drooping or enlarged tip or create a more defined and refined appearance.
Revision Rhinoplasty
Revision rhinoplasty is a procedure that is performed to correct a previous rhinoplasty surgery. This approach can correct aesthetic and functional issues and may involve open or closed techniques. Typically a piece of ear or rib cartilage is harvested and used to rebuild shape and structure for the most natural effects.
Your Entire Rhinoplasty Procedure
Before the procedure, you’ll have a consultation with our experienced and talented plastic surgeon, Dr. Ridenour, to discuss your expectations, goals and any concerns you may have. This is when we evaluate your nose and give you an idea of what results you can expect.
Rhinoplasty is typically performed under general anesthesia and can take up to three hours, depending on the complexity of the procedure. During the procedure, Dr. Ridenour will make incisions either inside the nostrils (and on the outside for a full rhino procedure). Next, he will reshape the underlying bone and cartilage to create the desired shape and size of the nose. Depending on the extent of the procedure, tissue from other parts of your body may be needed to enhance or support your nose’s new structure, especially in the case of a revision.
After the procedure, a splint or cast will be placed over your nose to help it maintain its new shape. In some cases, internal splints may also support the nasal passages.
Recovery From Rhinoplasty
After the procedure, you’ll need some downtime to heal. It’s normal to experience some swelling and bruising around the nose and eyes, which typically subsides within a few weeks. You may also experience some discomfort, which can be managed with pain medication. It is essential to avoid strenuous activities for at least four to six weeks following the surgery.
During the recovery period, following your post-operative care instructions is essential. This will include keeping your head elevated and avoiding activities that may put pressure on your nose, such as blowing your nose or wearing glasses. You may also need to wear a nasal splint or packing for the first few days after the surgery.
Of course, everyone’s recovery period is different. While some patients may feel well enough to return to work or school within a week, others may need several weeks to recover fully. During your thorough consultation, we’ll provide a more specific timeline just for you.
Potential Risks with Rhinoplasty
As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks associated with rhinoplasty. Possible risks include infection, bleeding, or an adverse reaction to anesthesia. However, with proper care and precautions, these risks are typically minimized. Some have had to have revision surgery to correct minor imperfections or to further improve a good outcome.
Having the right expectations is critical to achieving a natural and harmonious result. Dr. Ridenour will explain all this to you and be sure that you understand that the shape of your nose will change a lot about your face and how you look, but it’s a delicate procedure and won’t make up for deep-rooted low self-esteem. He will also guard against having too radical a procedure or seeking multiple procedures to continually correct disappointment or achieve “perfection” in the result
Get Started With Dr. Ridenour in St. Louis for Your Rhinoplasty!
If you are considering a rhinoplasty procedure, we highly recommend you schedule a consultation with Dr. Ridenour. Our team is dedicated to providing you with the highest level of care and ensuring that your rhinoplasty procedure is a success.
At Ridenour Plastic Surgery, we understand that undergoing any type of surgery can be a daunting experience. We’ll guide you through the entire process and ensure you’re comfortable with every step. Schedule your consultation, contact or call board-certified facial plastic surgeon Dr. Brock D. Ridenour and our team in St. Louis, MO, at (314) 501-7946 today.
