Rhinoplasty is the medical name for surgical alterations to the form or function of the nose. In layman's terms, it is plastic or cosmetic surgery on the nose.
There is a common misconception that plastic or cosmetic surgery is only carried out to improve the appearance of the nose. However, rhinoplasty is also widely used to correct a wide range of problems with the nose that may affect its normal functioning, for example, difficulties in breathing through the nose.
The nose is arguably the most prominent feature on the human face. While there is no definition as to what the perfect nose should look like, many people are unhappy with the appearance of their noses. They may feel their nose is too long, too short, too big or too wide. They may not like the shape of the nose, or they may have a noticeable bump on the bridge.
Because the nose is so prominent, it is vulnerable to trauma as a result of accidents. Most youngsters take part in sports, and sporting accidents can result in damaged or broken noses, which may leave the nose out of shape.
Closed or Open Rhinoplasty
When a patient requests a nose job Houston plastic surgeon, Dr. Patt, explains that there are two principal means of carrying out cosmetic surgical operations on this particular part of the body. These are referred to as closed rhinoplasty, also known as endonasal rhinoplasty, and open rhinoplasty.
The principal difference between these two methods is that open rhinoplasty involves making an incision in the external, fleshy part of the nasal septum. The nasal septum is the tissue that separates the two nostrils. Closed rhinoplasty is carried out without making any external incisions. Instead, the surgeon makes all incisions inside the nasal cavities.
If you are thinking of having rhinoplasty done, you may have done some research and seen these two methods discussed. Neither method is intrinsically better than the other. Each case is specific, and your surgeon will discuss which method is best in your case. Your surgeon may have a preference for one or the other.
Teenagers
One of the most common plastic surgery procedures requested by teenagers is a nose job. There is no reason why teenagers should not avail of the procedure. However, doctors will advise that any teenager waits until his or her physical development is complete before carrying out rhinoplasty. The procedure should not be done until the body has stopped growing.
The operation
Your surgeon will talk to you about your reasons for wanting a nose job, and will determine if your expectations are realistic. He will explain what is involved in the procedure, and what the outcome is likely to be.
Most nose job operations are carried out on outpatient basis, so there will be no overnight stay in the hospital or clinic. The procedure may be carried out under local anesthetic, where the patient is sedated and an anesthetic is injected into the nasal region to numb the area. Sometimes, it may be necessary to have a general anesthetic.
Recovery
After the procedure, patients often have to wear a nasal splint. There will be some swelling and bruising in the nasal area. This will gradually subside. It may take several months until healing is complete.
For any questions about open or closed rhinoplasty, contact Dr. Patt's office today!
