Rhinoplasty is one of the most common surgeries performed by double board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Hoefflin. The goal is to create a contoured, natural, attractive nose while correcting any structural abnormalities that interfere with breathing. Even subtle changes to the nose can greatly enhance one’s appearance and self-confidence.
During your consultation with Dr. Hoefflin, he will perform an individual facial analysis, and together you will discuss your aesthetic goals. This will help Dr. Hoefflin determine if you are a good rhinoplasty candidate, and it will give him the opportunity to explain his surgical recommendations. He will provide you with customized literature that discusses the procedure, and you will have the opportunity to view before and after photographs of patients.
Rhinoplasty is frequently performed in combination with other complementary cosmetic surgery procedures such as cheek and chin implants, facial liposuction, or facial fat grafting to enhance the overall aesthetic result of the procedure.
Dr. Hoefflin performs rhinoplasty surgery as an outpatient procedure in his state-of-the-art surgery center which conforms to the highest credentials. Rhinoplasty is performed under general anesthesia, administered by one of our board-certified anesthesiologists. The rhinoplasty procedure generally takes 1-2 hours, depending upon the level of desired sculpting.
The incisions are often placed inside the nose where they are not visible. Depending on the desired outcome, incisions may instead be placed along the noses natural creases or on the columella (the skin separating the nostrils). During the rhinoplasty procedure, Dr. Hoefflin removes bone and cartilage from the septum to sculpt and recontour the nose. Often cartilage that was removed is used to fill in, reshape, and smooth out irregularities. Under Dr. Hoefflin’s expert care, patients can achieve a nose that is attractive and proportionate with little or no visible scaring.
After rhinoplasty surgery, patients are fitted with a nasal splint for protection and stability then discharged home. The splint is worn for five to seven days. After the splint is removed, the nose is taped down for another day or two for additional support and to minimize swelling. Rhinoplasty patients are advised to use an ice compress regularly and elevate the head to also minimize swelling and bruising after surgery. A mild amount of bruising around the nose and eye area is common, but it should diminish five to seven days after surgery.
Dr. Hoefflin’s rhinoplasty patients typically experience very little pain due to the anesthetics used during the procedure and the oral pain medications prescribed for post-operative comfort. Most rhinoplasty patients feel comfortable returning to normal activities seven to ten days after surgery. Final results are achieved three to twelve months after surgery.
Because of today’s improved surgical techniques, safer and more comfortable anesthesia, and a faster recovery, rhinoplasty patients are highly satisfied after their surgery procedure.
When rhinoplasty is performed by a qualified, board-certified plastic surgeon, the risks of serious problems after the nose reshaping are rare. Because of today’s improved surgical techniques and safer anesthesia, patients are more comfortable than ever and recover quickly following surgery.
Most potential complications are minor, but during your consultation, Dr. Hoefflin will discuss whether you are a good candidate for rhinoplasty and the specific risks you should be aware of. As always, you can reduce your risk of complications by closely following Dr. Hoefflin’s pre- and post-operative instructions.
The rhinoplasty surgery is not covered by insurance if being performed for cosmetic reasons. However, insurance coverage is often available to those with nasal deformities cause by injury, or if a deviated septum or hypertrophied turbinates are causing breathing problems. Talk with your insurance company to see if this procedure is something they cover, and ask for information on obtaining pre-authorization.
To learn if you are a rhinoplasty candidate, contact our double board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Hoefflin, for a complimentary consultation.
Rhinoplasty can be performed two ways: open or closed. What differentiates the two procedures is simply the incision location. When choosing which technique to use, surgeons and patients weigh many factors.
In an open rhinoplasty procedure, the incision is placed on the columella, or the column of tissue that divides the nostrils. The surgeon makes an inverted V incision to help keep the scar as inconspicuous as possible. This position also makes it easier for the surgeon to lift the flesh and gain direct access to the cartilage that will be shaped or trimmed. While open rhinoplasty provides some advantages, the procedure is usually performed in more complicated or revisionary circumstances.
To reduce post-operative swelling and expedite healing, the surgeon may opt for a closed nose job with all incisions made inside the nostrils. This method is usually faster and it does not compromise the critical parts of the nose that maintain the contour.
During a closed rhinoplasty, incisions are made inside the nostrils, and the tissue is lifted to reveal the nasal vault. The surgeon then shapes and trims the tissues and cartilage to give the nose the desired shape and contour. As the operation is performed inside the nose, it typically leaves little or no post-operative scars.
Both open and closed rhinoplasty techniques are safe and effective. A consultation with an experienced plastic surgeon like Dr. Jeffrey D. Hoefflin, also well-known for his expert BOTOX injections, is a good place to start if you are considering nose surgery. During a consultation, surgeons should discuss the benefits and limitations of each procedure to determine the best course of action for each patient.
Rhinoplasty, also known as nose-reshaping surgery, is a surgical procedure to improve the appearance, as well as the function, of your nose. Patients often seek rhinoplasty surgery to achieve a more natural nasal appearance. Common modifications include changes in the overall size and shape of the bridge, tip improvement, and nostril narrowing.
Good candidates for Rhinoplasty procedure are patients who are dissatisfied with the appearance or breathing function of their nose. As with all types of facial cosmetic surgery, realistic expectations about their future surgical results are important. In addition, patients must be in good medical condition.
Dr. Hoefflin is a rhinoplasty specialist who performs all aspects of secondary or revisional rhinoplasty. Revision operations are technically more demanding and require a greater level of skill compared to the initial rhinoplasty procedure. They can represent some of the most challenging operations, even for highly qualified and skilled plastic surgeons.
Dr. Hoefflin will typically perform rhinoplasty surgery on patients after they are through puberty. However, each individual patient is different and having an operation requires an emotionally responsible and mature patient.
Septoplasty is a surgical procedure performed to correct the shape or deformities of the septum, that have either developed as the result of trauma or acquired defects. Dr. Hoefflin frequently performs septoplasty and rhinoplasty procedures together.
Yes. Cheek and chin implants are frequently performed at the same time as a rhinoplasty. Facial implants can often restore or improve your facial harmony and balance. Combination cosmetic surgery procedures will often reduce your operating and anesthesia costs, while not prolonging your recovery time.
Nasal packing, made of gauze, can be used to control bleeding and provide septal support after rhinoplasty. Nasal packs are typically removed within twenty-four to forty-eight hours after surgery. Rather than using this technique, Dr. Hoefflin typically chooses to place a “stint” inside the nose when necessary to provide even more support. Stints are typically more comfortable for patients and are removed within twenty-four to forty-eight hours after surgery.
Dr. Hoefflin is a rhinoplasty specialist who performs both “closed” and “open” rhinoplasty techniques. In closed rhinoplasty, nasal incisions are performed inside the nose or along it’s natural creases, concealing all incisions and leaving no noticeable evidence of surgery. In open rhinoplasty, a small incision is made on the anterior columellar skin, and extended along the underside of the nose. These small scars become nearly invisible in time. The open rhinoplasty technique is typically reserved for more complicated or revisional rhinoplasty procedures.
Our patients report that they are surprised at the lack of pain due to long-acting local anesthetic and nerve blocks. Most patients describe the recovery process as a mild discomfort and feeling of nasal congestion. Most patients tell us they feel much better than expected following their surgery and that they could return to work and social activities in about a week following surgery.
Twenty-four hours after surgery, there may be some bruising or mild swelling around the lower eyelid and nasal areas, which may be relieved with cold compresses. Patients may also experience a dull headache, which can be controlled with oral medication. Five to seven days after your rhinoplasty surgery, your splint and nasal dressings will be removed. Absorbable sutures are frequently used and do not require removal. More specific pre- and post-operative instructions are provided at the time of your rhinoplasty consultation with Dr. Hoefflin.
When performed by a qualified plastic surgeon, the risk of serious problems after rhinoplasty are rare. Any complications are usually minor, temporary, and can be easily resolved with conservative treatment and time. Surgery carries certain risks, including infection, bleeding, incomplete improvement, the need for additional surgery. Specific risks and the suitability of rhinoplasty procedure for a given individual can be determined at the time of consultation. Always follow your surgeon’s instructions both before and after surgery so that the healing process proceeds as it should.
Discoloration around the eyes typically occurs seventy-two hours after rhinoplasty surgery. The degree of this discoloration and the amount of time required for it to fade varies with each individual patient. Most discoloration will disappear within seven to ten days.
Light exercise can be resumed after several weeks and an unrestricted return to all activities within six weeks.
The splints are typically removed within a week after your rhinoplasty.
While positive results and appearance can be immediately seen after your rhinoplasty, it typically takes a full year for all your nasal swelling to subside. Over the course of a year, your nasal swelling will diminish, and your nasal elasticity and tissue thickness will adjust, making your final appearance become complete.
The first step, if you are considering a “nose job,” is to come to us and talk to us about the type of nose you want – and please bring pictures if you want. Your face has unique features, and the important issue is to create balance and harmony, and take the focus off an overlarge or unattractive nose. You have unique issues, and we need to look at your nose carefully to determine what type of surgical procedure is needed to achieve the results you envision. We will talk to you about your medical history, as well as any drugs or supplements you take, as some must be stopped prior to surgery. We answer all your questions, and can show you many photos of other patients who have had their nose structure enhanced so you are confident in our ability to create a balanced look that enhances your natural features, rather than detracting.
Many physicians of various types offer this surgery, but may not have had the extensive training and education you will find with a board-certified plastic surgeon. Board certification from the American Board of Plastic Surgery is not easily achieved, and requires up to sixteen years of education and training after high school, extensive testing, and a residency. To have a rhinoplasty performed by a medical professional with an extensive understanding of facial reconstruction, board certification is critical.
Some rhinoplasty procedures will be covered (at least in part) by medical insurance. These are cases in which breathing is inhibited. For cosmetic procedures, health insurance does not pay. To make it easier for you to reshape your nose (or repair overlarge nostrils), we offer financing that will give you payment options that are reasonable for your budget.
Rhinoplasty is not covered by insurance if being performed for cosmetic reasons. However, if the nasal deformity is due to recent injury, or if pre-existing breathing problems are present, your health insurance company may pay for a portion of the procedure. Rhinoplasty patients are responsible for checking with their insurance carriers to determine what, if any amount, they will be responsible for.
To learn if you are a candidate for rhinoplasty, contact double Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Hoefflin for a complimentary consultation.
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