Rhinoplasty

rhinoplasty surgery, Facial Rejuvenation Center of Atlanta, Peter J. Abramson, M.D., Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon, 404-297-1789, www.rhinoplastyatlanta.com

rhinoplastyThe nose is the most defining facial characteristic. Every year, thousands of people elect to have rhinoplasty surgery, or nose reshaping, to augment their nose, whether it is the one they were born with, or one that has been misshapen by some sort of trauma. Noses may appear too large or too small; the nostrils may appear too flared or pinched, or the nose may be situated at an awkward angle, distorting its actual size or shape.

Additionally, problems with the nose are not necessarily aesthetic--breathing may be restricted due to a problem with the septum. This may be the result of injury, birth defect or even heredity. Regardless, nothing has a greater impact on your appearance and self-confidence than the appearance of your nose. Rhinoplasty surgery can be performed for cosmetic or functional reasons, and even slight alterations can make a significant improvement in your appearance and function.

Is Rhinoplasty Right for You?

The goal of rhinoplasty is to improve the nose to make it harmonize with the rest of the face. Rhinoplasty surgery may not be for everyone. There are many factors to consider when you elect to undergo rhinoplasty surgery. We will be happy to discuss your goals and expectations during your in-office consultation. Here are some of the considerations to be discussed:

  • You must be in good health and have realistic goals and expectations.
  • Skin type, ethnicity and age are all factors in considering rhinoplasty surgery.
  • Additional surgery may be recommended to enhance the appearance of your face.
  • Chin augmentation is frequently done alongside rhinoplasty to create a better balance.
  • The degree of deformity and nasal function are factors that influence the outcome, along with age, ethnic background and skin type.
  • A complete medical history will be taken, along with photos for your records, and a thorough exam of the structure of your nose (both internally and externally) will be done to evaluate the outcome of your surgery.
  • Choosing an experienced, competent facial plastic surgeon like Dr. Abramson is important for any surgical procedure. Because of our experience and the expertise we’ve developed in this area, along with our use of the most current techniques and instruments, our patients receive the most outstanding results possible. We’re confident that you’ll be satisfied, too.

Rhinoplasty Preparation

When you have a rhinoplasty procedure done at Abramson Facial Plastic Surgery & Rejuvenation Center, there are a number of steps you should take to prepare, such as:

  • Eat a balanced, nutrient-rich diet before and after surgery to prepare the body and to help speed recovery. You may also want to plan easy prep meals in advance to minimize your time in the kitchen after surgery and during recovery.
  • If you are a smoker, please abstain for at least two weeks before and after surgery. Smoking increases the risk of infection and slows the healing process.
  • Avoid taking medications containing aspirin for two weeks before surgery.
  • Do not eat or drink after midnight the night before your surgery.
  • Be certain you do not have a cold or sunburn the day of your surgery.
  • Do not wear make-up or contact lenses the day of your surgery.
  • Have someone drive you on your surgery day and assist you for a few days after surgery to allow you a smooth a speedy recovery.

Learn more details about this procedure

Rhinoplasty Procedure Overview

When you undergo your rhinoplasty nose reshaping surgery, your procedure will go as follows:

  • Incisions will be made primarily inside the nose, so that they are invisible.
  • The skin will then be lifted from its underlying bone and cartilage support system.
  • Some bone and cartilage will be removed or rearranged to shape the new underlying structure.
  • The skin will then be redraped over the new frame and incisions will be closed.
  • A splint will be applied to the outside of the nose, which will help retain the shape during healing.
  • Soft, absorbent material may be placed inside the nose to stabilize the septum.

Important Post Rhinoplasty Surgery Information

After your rhinoplasty surgery, the small splint placed on your nose will remain on for 5 -8 days to stabilize and protect the new structure. If Dr. Abramson uses packing inside your nose, this will be removed the day after your surgery. Puffiness, minor swelling and bruising are normal, and will diminish a little each day. Cold compresses can help reduce the bruising and discomfort, along with oral pain medication, if required. You must avoid blowing your nose for seven days following surgery.

Following these instructions is very important! Additional instructions from Dr. Abramson may include keeping your head elevated for a certain period of time and restricting certain activities such as sun exposure, strenuous activities and other potential injury risks. If you wear glasses, they must not rest on the bridge of your nose following surgery. To deal with this, tape and other devices are available that will allow you to continue wearing your glasses during the recovery and healing period.

Follow-up appointments are vital. You must keep these appointments so that we may monitor your healing. If you experience anything unusual, you must report it to Dr. Abramson immediately!

The risk factors associated with rhinoplasty surgery are very minor. The specialists at Abramson Facial Plastic Surgery & Rejuvenation Center are happy to discuss the risks with you during your personal consultation before your surgery. Please contact our office today for more details.