Rhinoplasty

What is Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty, which is commonly known as a “nose job”, can improve the balance and proportions of the nose. Rhinoplasty can address a variety of issues, including the size of the nose in relation to the face, the width of the nose at the bridge or nostrils, visible humps, or depressions on the bridge, an enlarged or bulbous nasal tip, a drooping or hooked nasal tip, large or upturned nostrils, and nasal asymmetry. However, it is important to remember that facial asymmetry is common, and while the aim is to create facial harmony and balance, results may not be completely symmetrical. In some cases, facial disproportion may be caused by more than just the nose, and a weak chin can also make the nose appear more prominent. Therefore, we may recommend a chin augmentation in conjunction with rhinoplasty for optimal facial harmony. Rhinoplasty can also fix breathing problems that result from structural defects in the nose.

What is a Septorhinoplasty?

In a septorhinoplasty, the surgeon addresses both the appearance and the function of the nose. Nasal obstruction is a very common medical complaint, and it is often due to structural causes, such as a deviated septum or nasal valve collapse. This may be as a result of a trauma or a previous rhinoplasty.

Revision Rhinoplasty

While rhinoplasty is one of the most commonly performed plastic surgery operations in the United States, it is also arguably the most challenging. Given the difficulty of this complicated procedure, in some patients a revision, or secondary, rhinoplasty may be advisable. High volume rhinoplasty surgeons expect to have to revise up to 10% of their own surgeries. Dr. Sowder has significant experience performing revision rhinoplasty, with up to 40% of the rhinoplasty operations he does each year being revisions of surgery done by another surgeon.

What are the benefits of a Rhinoplasty?

Our experienced surgeons will work with you to ensure a detailed understanding of your goals and realistic outcomes of the surgery. To help with this, we use cutting-edge 3D computer imaging technology to modify your nose on-screen, giving you a better visual understanding of what to expect.

Dr. Sowder has obtained a special combination of training in both the aesthetics and function of the nose, which helps to ensure optimal results. As otolaryngologists (ENT or Ear, Nose, & Throat) and facial plastic surgeons, they never sacrifice the functionality of the nose for aesthetic purposes. Each rhinoplasty procedure is unique, and our surgeons utilize various techniques to adapt to each individual patient to deliver the very best results. With years of experience and specialty training, our surgeons are experts in both primary and revision rhinoplasty and have a passion for performing this particular procedure.

Special Considerations in Male Rhinoplasty Patients

The goals for male rhinoplasty patients are similar to those for female patients; to create a rejuvenated appearance that looks natural. It is important to not create an over reduced (“ski-slope”) dorsum or to narrow the tip to make it too “pointy” to avoid giving the male nose a “feminine” appearance. However, there is a spectrum of what both male and female patients desire and the procedure is customized to each patient’s individual goals.

Deciding to Schedule

During your consultation, you will receive a detailed surgical quote and any required clearance forms. If you choose to proceed with surgery, our dedicated Patient Coordinator will guide you through the process of selecting a procedure date. To finalize your preferred surgical date, a non-refundable, non-transferrable booking fee will be required upon scheduling. A pre-operative appointment will be scheduled for at least two weeks prior to your surgery date. At the time of booking surgery, we will also schedule your first few follow-up visits. Take a careful look at your social calendar and ensure you do not have any travel or major life events booked too close to your surgery date. This will help to eliminate the risk of exposure to respiratory illnesses or the possibility of residual bruising and swelling interfering with your plans.

Pre-Op

During your pre-operative appointment, you’ll have plenty of time to discuss your upcoming procedure in detail and have all your questions answered. Your pre- and post-operative care instructions will be reviewed with one of our nurses, as well as any medications you’ll need to take before and after surgery. You’ll review and sign the consent form for the surgery, meet with your surgeon to revisit your goals, and review any submitted medical clearance forms. Our goal is to ensure that you feel fully informed and comfortable with the upcoming procedure, allowing you to approach your surgery with confidence and peace of mind.

What to Avoid Before Surgery

To ensure optimal surgical results and minimize the risk of complications, it is crucial to avoid all blood thinning medications and supplements for at least two weeks prior to your facelift procedure. This includes aspirin or aspirin-containing products, as well as anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or naproxen (including Motrin, Aleve, and Advil). Additionally, supplements such as Vitamin E, multivitamins, and omega 3 fatty acids (fish oil and flaxseed oil) should be avoided. For a complete list of medications and supplements to avoid, please consult with your pre-op nurse. Our goal is to help you achieve the best possible results while ensuring your safety and comfort throughout the surgical process.

What can I expect in Recovery

Using a combination of IV sedation and local anesthesia, our skilled surgeons perform rhinoplasty by making concealed incisions to reshape the cartilage and bone structure of the nose. Our surgeons may also perform internal nasal work, such as septoplasty or turbinate reduction, to improve nasal airways. Following the procedure, the patient may wear a plastic splint on the outside of the nose for a week, or occasionally, internal splints are used. Unlike in the past, modern rhinoplasty procedures rarely require nasal packing. Bruising may occur, especially if bony structures of the nose are addressed, and typically lasts five to seven days under the eyes.

Sutures are typically removed within one to two weeks. It’s important to minimize activity and keep the head elevated as much as possible. One of the most important steps is to avoid strenuous physical activity and intense exercise for the first few days after your surgery. This includes heavy lifting, bending over, and interval training. After the first few days, you can slowly begin to increase your activity level, but it’s important to listen to your body and avoid any activities that cause discomfort or pain. By the end of the third week, most people are able to resume their normal exercise routines. However, it’s important to note that contact sports should be avoided for at least six weeks following your surgery. This will help ensure that your body has fully healed and reduce the risk of any complications.

Final results may take several months as swelling gradually subsides to reveal the subtle changes.

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