Nasal Surgery

What is Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty, or "nasal surgery," is designed to refine the outer shape of the nose while at the same time considering function. It is one of the most technically demanding operations performed in aesthetic surgery. Like many people, you may have been bothered by some aspect of your nose your entire life. You may be uncomfortable with the way you look in photos, and your nose may be the first thing you see every day in the mirror. All of that can change in a two-hour procedure. Dr. Corey's patients report feeling a level of confidence they have never known before, just by changing the shape of their nose. They feel that people are no longer "staring at my nose" in conversation. Just a few hours can result in dramatic changes.

What Should You Expect From Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty requires taking into account many aesthetic and functional factors such as three-dimensional structures, the flow of air, the manipulation of different tissue types (skin, bone, cartilage and inner lining), ethnic appearance and facial proportion. Because of these factors, there may be limitations on your final result and exactly how much your natural nose can be changed. During your consultation, Dr. Corey will discuss all of these factors with you in great detail. It is very important that both you and Dr. Corey have a clear understanding of the desired goal and how this surgery should be individualized for you.

Rhinoplasty can address multiple areas. This procedure can change the length of the nose, the top portion or hump, the width of the upper nasal bones, the shape and width of the nostrils, a bulbous or "boxy" tip, and the middle support to the nose or septum. Any or all of these can be performed during your surgery, again, depending on your individual needs and wishes.

Preparing For Your Surgery

Pre-operatively, Dr. Corey will consult with you to discuss surgical techniques and determine your specific goals. You will be provided with instructions regarding diet, smoking and medications. You will also be given necessary prescriptions, and photos will be taken.

During Your Surgery

Rhinoplasty is almost always performed under general anesthesia (meaning you will be asleep throughout the procedure) in an outpatient facility with an anesthesiologist in attendance. Most procedures last from one to three hours with one hour spent recovering before discharge home. In general, there are two main techniques used in nasal surgery. In the "Closed" technique, all incisions are restricted to the inside of the nose. In the "Open" technique, a small part of the incision (2-3 mm) is located at the very underneath portion of the nose between the nostrils, and the remainder begins again on the inside. Dr. Corey utilizes the "Open" technique in most cases because he feels it affords him better visualization and appreciation of symmetry. Dr. Corey also uses techniques that DO NOT require packing to be placed in the nose following surgery in the great majority of cases. It is this packing which can be the most miserable part of the entire experience. Depending on what is done, a small splint may be placed over the top of the nose or along the inside septum.

Post-Operative Care

In recovery, there is almost always some bruising and swelling around the eyes, and you may experience the notorious "raccoon eyes" pattern. By applying ice packs and elevating the head, these effects usually subside over the next five to seven days although some discoloration may persist a bit longer. Most people are ready to return to work after seven to ten days. Since there is no packing in the nose, most patients do not describe this as a particularly painful or uncomfortable procedure. Swelling decreases in two stages, with the first stage happening in five to seven days. However, with rhinoplasty, the final softness and contour to the nose will probably not be evident for ten to twelve months. This does not mean that there will be a noticeable swelling for that long, but rather a gradual return to a normal-feeling nose.

For More Information

See Before/After photographs.

If you would like more information about rhinoplasty, please Contact Me.