Who is a Candidate?

• If you have an abnormal appearance of the nose as a result of birth defects, injury, or disease.
• If you have a nasal obstruction due to a deviated nasal septum (divider between the two sides of the nose).
• If you have a nose that is cosmetically unattractive or does not “fit” with other facial features.

Intended Result

• More attractive nasal shape. Nose in better proportion to other facial features.
• Reduction of nasal obstruction- ability to breathe better.

Procedure Description

• The procedure is done on an outpatient basis under sedation and local or general anesthesia.
• Standard Rhinoplasty: Incisions are made inside the nostrils. The nasal bones cartilage, and soft tissues are reshaped to improve external contour.
• External Rhinoplasty: Frequently used for difficult or larger noses. Involves one external incision across the columella (strut between the nostrils). Bones, cartilage, and soft tissues are reshaped under direct vision.
• Tip Rhinoplasty: If only the nasal tip is abnormal, it may be corrected with either a standard or external approach.
• Septoplasty: The crooked septum is straightened through incisions inside the nose.
• Large nostrils may be reduced through tiny incisions at the outer base of the nostrils with either type of rhinoplasty.

Recuperation & Healing

• The patient goes home with an external cast or splint in place. The nose may be packed for several days. Splints are usually removed in 7-10 days.
• Initial discomfort is easily controlled with oral medication.
• Majority of swelling and bruising subsides progressively over 2-4 weeks.
• External sutures (if any) are removed in 4-6 days. Internal sutures dissolve.
• Semifinal result is evident in 3 months. Final result is evident in 12-14 months.

Other Options

An additional procedure that might enhance the result is Chin enlargement.

Insurance Guidelines

This procedure is not covered by insurance if being done for cosmetic reasons. If the nasal deformity is due to a recent injury, insurance coverage may be available. Septoplasty is frequently covered by insurance. The office staff will be able to assist in obtaining pre-authorization.

Note

The specific risks and the suitability of this procedure for a given individual can be determined only at the time of consultation. All surgical procedures have some degree of risk. Minor complications that do not affect the outcome occur occasionally. Major complications are unusual.