Fifteen Rhinoplasty Facts to Know Prior to Surgery

1. Cosmetic nose surgery is difficult to perform. In fact, it is regarded as the most difficult facial plastic surgery to perform, and one of the most difficult procedures of the face and body. The nose performs the important functions of air hydration, as well as inhalation and exhalation. The internal intricacies coupled with the fact that the nose is a small feature in a central location, and even the minutest of changes will greatly impact one’s appearance, require a well-trained facial plastic surgeon to perform a rhinoplasty.
2. The aim of a rhinoplasty is to improve the look of the nose, and sometimes the function of the feature. Any plastic surgeon who promises perfection will be unable to deliver, simply because this standard does not exist. This fact should not undermine the notion that a nose job can completely transform the face.
3. There may be limitations to the possible variety of changes to each patient’s nose. The structure of this part is based on genetics, which in turn forms the anatomy. Typically, facial plastic surgeons are as conservative as possible, while still creating changes that will please each individual patient.
4. The concept of facial harmony is very important in facial plastics. Each feature must fit the look of the face for the most attractive end result. There are scientific principles like the “Golden Ratio” that provide a blueprint for such ideas. While it may not be necessary to consult ancient scientific texts for modern cosmetic surgery, the ideas remain firmly planted in today’s aesthetics. Because individuals have varying facial structures, the look of one nose will not suit every face. Rhinoplasty is completely customizable to each patient.
5. An attractive nose is one that appears as though a person was born with it. Rather than highlighting the midface with an overdone feature, the nose should appear appropriate to the individual’s looks. A nose can look artificial if it appears too small for the face, pinched or turned up at the tip, or if the nasal bridge is made to be too thin.
6. Surgical expertise is necessary for a successful rhinoplasty, but there are factors that cannot be controlled that may lead to an undesirable outcome. Genetics play a role in the surgery, and if the patient has overly flexible cartilage and thin skin of the nose, a follow-up procedure (also called a secondary rhinoplasty or revision rhinoplasty. Trauma to the nose and infection will also compromise even the best nose job results.
7.  Most people are eligible for rhinoplasty surgery if the nose has fully grown into its adult shape, the patient is healthy, and the tissues of the nose are able to be modified. If the patient is young, healthy, with clear skin that has good elasticity, he or she will derive the optimum benefit from a rhinoplasty.
8. A nasal skeleton that features strong and proportionate bones is the foundation to long-lived form and function of the nose. When the nose is reshaped, cartilage should be preserved because it reinforces the underlying bone structure. There are other ways to alter the look of the cartilage, which include changing its shape and position.
9. The healing process from a rhinoplasty is lengthy, and may span one to nearly two years. While there will be more unwanted side effects in the beginning phase, residual swelling can persist. Patients may feel disappointed for a time following the rhinoplasty due to the way the nose looks as it takes on its final shape. It is best to remain patient throughout this process, and it helps to know about it beforehand.
10. There is no such thing as the perfect nose, and it is unrealistic to expect these results from a facial plastic surgeon. While revision surgeries are possible, too many subsequent procedures can unintentionally restore a patient’s old nose. Because the bone structure only supports so many looks, the removal and addition of tissue can lead to this issue.
11. As a general rule, revision rhinoplasty should be reserved for serious issues resulting from the initial procedure, such as misshapen anatomy that may look unattractive and function poorly. The first surgery is often less costly and requires less time to perform, while a secondary nose surgery may be much more involved. If a patient seeks only minor alterations, non-surgical options should be explored.
12. Modern medicine has provided facial plastic surgeons with more precise ways to perform facial plastic surgery, including the rhinoplasty. Results are now better than ever before. The combination of the surgeon’s skillset and favorable patient tissues can lead to a great final result.
13. Imaging software allows patients to view possible outcome of the surgery. The doctor can provide three-dimensional aspects of the face so the patient can see how others would view their new nose as well. The software is beneficial, but cannot reveal the final look due to varying factors.
14. Many facial plastic surgeons now offer financing options for their services. Some patients may choose not to, or are unable to fully fund a rhinoplasty upfront. To accommodate all budgets, credit options may be available to patients.
15. Non-surgical rhinoplasty is performed through dermal injections and provides temporary changes to the nose. While it cannot eliminate tissues from the nose, it can disguise imperfections, create symmetry, and provide patients with a less invasive cosmetic option. This procedure may be performed by a staff member under the guidance of the doctor.

To learn more about your rhinoplasty options, contact the experienced professionals at Laser & Cosmetic Surgery Specialists. Dr. Ran Y. Rubinstein, New York facial plastic surgeon, can provide the guidance you seek to alter your looks. Please contact us through the Patient Consultation Form  or by phone, at 845-863-1772. Dr. Rubinstein’s practice, Laser & Cosmetic Surgery Specialists, has two New York locations in Newburgh and Manhattan. The upstate and city locations provide patients with convenient options to meet with the doctor.

Dr. Rubinstein has been a trusted facial plastic surgeon in the Hudson Valley for a decade-and-a-half, specializing in esthetic laser procedures, facial plastic surgery, nasal, and sinus disorders. The doctor expertly combines his therapeutic and clinical know-how to provide each patient with improved aesthetics and utility. The doctor is double board certified through the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, is a member of the American Society for Laser Medicine & Surgery, and is an Assistant Professor at New York Columbia Presbyterian Hospital.