Enhance the Face with Nasal Reshaping
Rhinoplasty Scottsdale, Arizona
Nasal reshaping, or rhinoplasty, is most commonly performed to reduce the size of the nose by removing a hump, narrowing the tip, and occasionally narrowing the nostrils. In some cases, augmentation with cartilage grafting can correct a low nasal bridge resulting from genetics, trauma, or over-reduction from prior rhinoplasty. Regardless of the specifics, the goal of rhinoplasty is to reduce focus on the nose while drawing attention to facial features such as beautiful eyes and a bright smile. To determine whether you are a candidate for rhinoplasty, contact Dr. Pamela Henderson in Scottsdale, Arizona today, where her practice proudly serves patients from the greater Phoenix area.
The Rhinoplasty Consultation
During the consultation, the overall shape and size of the nose are noted, as well as its proportion and aesthetic balance in relation to other facial features. The contour of the nasal bridge is examined for a hump or a dip, and the depth of the nasofrontal angle, located at the juncture of the nasal bridge with the forehead, is evaluated. Flaring of the nostrils is noted if present. The width, rotation, and projection of the nasal tip are assessed, as is the thickness of the skin. This is important to address in patients with thicker skin where the amount of narrowing and definition that can be achieved is limited in order to continue to maintain tip support. The projection of the chin is examined and in those patients with under-projection, referred to as microgenia, chin augmentation is considered to improve the overall facial balance. The septum is also examined internally to assess for availability of cartilage if needed for grafting and also to assess for deviation that may be causing a functional nasal obstruction. If present and symptomatic, this portion of the procedure may be covered by insurance.
Preparing for Surgery
Once the decision is made to proceed with rhinoplasty, patients are scheduled for a preoperative appointment approximately two weeks prior to the surgical date. During that appointment, patients are given preoperative instructions and consent forms are reviewed. Patients are generally advised to take supplements to reduce swelling and bruising, while avoiding medications that increase the risk of bleeding such as certain herbs, vitamin E, aspirin, and NSAIDS, including ibuprofen.
Anesthesia
Rhinoplasty is most commonly performed using IV sedation, often referred to as “twilight anesthesia,” which will be administered in the accredited in-office surgical suite of Dr. Henderson’s Scottsdale practice. Local anesthesia is also injected during the procedure to decrease bleeding and improve patient comfort. Because general sedation is unnecessary, the surgery is typically performed as an outpatient procedure.
The Rhinoplasty Procedure
There are two approaches to rhinoplasty surgery: closed and open. The closed approach, which uses incisions inside the nostrils only, may be chosen for limited deformities, particularly of the bridge. If correction of the tip is desired, or for more extensive procedures, Dr. Henderson prefers the open approach, which involves placing a small inverted V-incision at the base of the nose. This approach allows her to better assess the deformities, and to more accurately correct them while decreasing the risk of creating asymmetries.
If a hump is removed, or if straightening or narrowing of the upper nose is desired, controlled cuts known as osteotomies are made in the nasal bones in the center, along the sides, or both, through an internal nasal approach. If indicated, the tip is narrowed and the position in terms of the rotation and projection is addressed.
Occasionally, cartilage obtained from either the septum or ear is placed to support the tip or mid nose, to augment the bridge, or to camouflage deformities. To reduce flaring of the nostrils, incisions are made in the base of each nostril in the natural crease and wedges of tissue are removed. Dissolvable sutures are placed internally while non-dissolvable sutures are placed externally. Tape and an external splint are applied. Usually internal packing is not required but if it is inserted, it is most often removed in 24 hours.
Learn more about the rhinoplasty procedure performed by Dr. Henderson by contacting her Scottsdale, Arizona practice today.
After Surgery
Following rhinoplasty, some patients describe discomfort in the form of a headache or nasal congestion rather than pain. If present, prescribed medications are available to control pain. The external splint and sutures are removed in one week. If a septoplasty is performed at the same time as the rhinoplasty, internal splints are occasionally placed to support the cartilage in place and these are removed in about one week. After removal of the external splint, patients are instructed to avoid activities that could increase risk of nasal trauma for a minimum of six weeks. Eyewear is also avoided during this time. Although patients may resume most normal activities in the first week, strenuous activities and exercise are to be avoided for two to three weeks. Depending on the patient’s age, visible bruising and swelling may last as little as one week or up to three weeks. Although the general shape and size of the nose can be seen in the early postoperative period, final results are generally not present for a year and in some cases with thicker skin even longer.
Risks Associated with Rhinoplasty
Although uncommon in association with rhinoplasty, complications can occur with any surgery. These include but are not limited to bleeding, infection, asymmetry, residual deviation, and breathing difficulties. In some cases during the healing process, minor deformities may be noted and revision surgery may be indicated. This is generally delayed for one year from the time of the initial surgery.
Learn More about Rhinoplasty
A well-proportioned nose can enhance the entire face. With surgical expertise and an artistic touch, Dr. Pamela Henderson can provide nasal reshaping to highlight your natural beauty. Learn more about your rhinoplasty options by contacting her Scottsdale, Arizona practice and arranging a personal consultation.