Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty Description

Surgery of the nose improves the appearance and proportion of the nose, enhancing facial harmony and self-confidence. Rhinoplasty may also correct impaired breathing caused by structural defects in the nose. If you desire a more symmetrical nose, keep in mind that everyone’s face is asymmetric to some degree. Results may not be completely symmetric, although the goal is to create facial balance and correct proportion. Facial augmentation with implants of the chin, cheeks and jaw may further enhance your outcomes.

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Face Lift Surgery | Eyelid (Blepharoplasty) Surgery | Brow Lift | Plastic Surgery

Rhinoplasty Benefits

• Enhance your facial balance improving overall appearance
• Correct structural defects in the nose allowing you to breathe easier
• Eliminate visible humps or depressions on the bridge of your nose
• Improving the symmetry of your nose

Preparing for Rhinoplasty

You will begin the process with a doctor consultation where you will be asked many questions to ensure you are a good candidate for the procedure. Health history, physical, likely outcomes and potential risks are a few examples of topics that will be discussed during your consultation. Lab testing, medications and age appropriate mammograms are also completed as part of procedure preparation. If you are considering nose surgery to improve your breathing, the procedure may be considered reconstructive and may be covered by your insurance. The procedure will be conducted at a licensed surgical center in the Kansas City metropolitan area.

Rhinoplasty FAQ

HOW DO I KNOW I AM A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR A RHINOPLASTY?

We recommend our patients be in good health and non-smokers to ensure successful healing. Rhinoplasty is best performed when facial growth is complete, beginning around age 15. We also recommend our patients have a positive outlook with specific goals in mind for improving their image.

HOW LONG WILL A RHINOPLASTY RECOVERY TAKE?

Following all doctors’ instructions is essential to successful recovery. You will need someone to drive you home following the procedure and stay with you the first night. Once your procedure is completed, a splint and/or packing will likely be placed inside your nose and a splint or bandages placed on the outside to support and protect the new structures during initial healing. You will be instructed to keep your head elevated at all times until initial swelling has subsided, and to keep any nasal packing in place at all times. Any discomfort you experience can typically be controlled with medication. A return to light, normal activity is possible as soon as you feel ready, usually within a few days of surgery. Any packing or splints will likely be removed after the first week, although you may need to wear the splint for an additional week or two at which time you can return to work.

WHAT ARE THE LONG-TERM EFFECTS?

Healing continues for at least several weeks as swelling resolves and incision lines continue to improve. You must practice diligent sun protection until the healing process is fully complete. You must also protect your nose from injury during any physical activity for the next 4 to 6 months. At a minimum, a year is considered normal for the outcome of surgery of the nose to fully refine.

WILL MY “NEW” NOSE LAST FOREVER?

In general, the results of nose surgery are permanent; however, cartilage, the main supporting structure of the nose, is continually growing and moving tissue that may change the outcome over time.

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