Rhinoplasty
A rhinoplasty, or nose job, is a surgical procedure to change the appearance and/or function of the nose. Commonly patients seeking rhinoplasty are interested in reducing the size of the "hump" on their nose, straightening the nose, narrowing the width, or changing the size of their nasal tip. Often patients have breathing issues that can be addressed during the procedure as well.
Treatment Time
Generally 3-4 hours, with more time necessary for revision cases or complex cases. If rib grafting is necessary in complex cases it could be up to 5 hours. Dr. McGuire will provide a better estimate of surgical time during the initial consultation based on your specific case.
Incisions
Rhinoplasty incisions are largely hidden. The incision starts at the columella, the area between your nostrils at the base of your nose, and then goes into your nose on either side. All stitches used are dissolvable meaning they do not need to be removed. Most people have difficulty seeing the incision after a few months.
Benefits
The main benefits of a rhinoplasty include improved breathing, a more natural and refined appearing nose, a straighter nose, and overall improved aesthetics. A rhinoplasty is a powerful operation that can dramatically improve your facial proportions.
Technique
The nose skin is elevated off the underlying cartilage through the incisions described above. Then special tools are used to shape and mold the cartilage. Often pieces of cartilage from your septum are used as grafts to refine the nasal tip and improve nose structure and stability.
Recovery
Most people feel comfortable going out in public in two weeks, however heavy activity is best avoided for four weeks. Incisions are fully healed by two weeks. Due to swelling from the procedure the final result is generally not expected for six months to a year.
Risks
As with any procedure there are surgical risks. The mains risks of rhinoplasty surgery include bleeding, infection, wound healing troubles, surgical anesthetic, breathing problems, and dissatisfaction. These risks will be discussed in depth during your consultation with Dr. McGuire and a detailed consent form will be reviewed.
Who are the best candidates?
Patients who have been thinking about changing their nasal appearance for years, breathing and/or aesthetic concerns, otherwise quite healthy, and non-smokers. It is crucial patients considering a rhinoplasty have realistic expectations and understand all risks involved.
Revision Rhinoplasty
A revision rhinoplasty is when another rhinoplasty is used to correct abnormalities or dissatisfactions from a previous procedure. Revision rhinoplasty is complex and each case is unique. Often rib cartilage is used to correct structural and aesthetic deformities and the procedure takes considerably more time. There is more risk of patient dissatisfaction during a revision rhinoplasty.