Are You Ready for Rhinoplasty?

According to The Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS), about 500,000 people explore the option of revising the appearance of their noses. While some folks are unhappy with the underlying structure of their nose from birth, others are concerned with either effects from injuries or the aging process. At other times (nose job) is sought after to relieve breathing issues with or without cosmetic appearance. Rhinoplasty may accomplish a very dramatic change in the facial appearance. Dr. Zemplenyi at the Bel Red Center for Aesthetic Surgery is the Bellevue and Seattle area Rhinoplasty specialist, and below he explains several details about rhinoplasty:

Who is a Good Candidate for Rhinoplasty?

Dr. Zemplenyi stresses that realistic expectations about any cosmetic surgery is as important as being in good health. Establishing a trusting relationship between patient and doctor is crucial to achievement of optimal results. It is important to be 100% honest with your surgeon prior to any procedure including rhinoplasty.

Rhinoplasty has no ideal just as nasal appearance does not; rather, the final goal is to achieve improved harmony and balance between the nose and other facial features. Rhinoplasty is usually performed once the patient has achieved most of his (her) facial development, usually between 13 to15 years of age. Surgery for improvement of breathing may be performed at a much earlier age. A chin augmentation may be needed along with rhinoplasty in some patients.

What to Expect at Rhinoplasty Consultations

Dr. Zemplenyi will examine the contours of your facial structure as well as the internal and external structure of your nose. He will obtain photographs. While using computerized imaging Dr. Zemplenyi will be able to discuss with you various proposed changes and show you approximately what your new nose may look like. This process allows you and Dr. Zemplenyi to have clear communications and improves your understanding of realistic expectations from a rhinoplasty. Dr. Zemplenyi’s expertise will become evident to you in your first consultation.

The Surgery

Rhinoplasty means re-shaping of the nose. To accomplish this, the bone and cartilage system of the nose is accessed through small internal and external incisions. Dr. Zemplenyi usually prefers to approach the nasal tip and the mid-portion (nasal mid-vault) using a small skin incision between the nostrils. This is known as an open rhinoplasty approach. Nasal structure is altered by either removing, adding, rearranging and repositioning with suturing of the underlying bone and cartilage. For example, if the nasal tip is too large, the cartilage can be sculpted to reduce its size. If the tip droops it may be elevated to achieve a more youthful appearance.

Once the underlying structure of the nose is altered, the tissues are draped back in place and the incisions closed. To aid with healing after surgery, a splint is applied to the outside to help retain the new shape during the healing process. Dr. Zemplenyi usually avoids packing of the nose, and this greatly improves patient’s post-operative comfort.

The Healing

Pain is usually easily relieved with prescribed medications that are commonly needed for the first one to three days. The splint applied during surgery remains for about one week. The black and blue discoloration around the eyes, most prominent is the first three days, usually resolves in about two weeks. The majority of swelling disappears in about two to three weeks but subtle, minor changes occur for a year or more. If you wear glasses, be certain to ask your surgeon to accommodate your needs.