Rhinoplasty 101. Understanding the Basics of This Popular Procedure

More and more people are seeking the professional advice of plastic surgeons to change things about their appearance they do not like. Rhinoplasty, commonly referred to as a “nose job”, is one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries performed today. The primary reason individuals consider rhinoplasty surgery is because they dislike an aspect of their nose. The nose is the central focus of a person's face, and it can have a significant impact on one's appearance as well as their self-confidence.

While rhinoplasty surgery can help make a person's nose more attractive, it can also fix structural abnormalities that cause medical problems. No matter the reason for considering rhinoplasty surgery, this highly complex procedure is one of the most challenging types of plastic surgery. Patients must take the time to find the right plastic surgeon to achieve the best rhinoplasty experience.

Board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Christopher Khorsandi, provides rhinoplasty options to his patients in the Las Vegas area. Chief Surgeon at VIP Plastic Surgery, Dr. Khorsandi is experienced and highly qualified to perform this customized procedure for both women and men. Read below for more information about this surgery and what you can expect.

Expertise and attention to detail
Rhinoplasty surgery involves the nose which is prominently located on the face. Whether you want to change its size or shape, your final results will depend on your nose’s anatomy and the surgical expertise you receive during your procedure. The composition of the nose accounts for its size and is made up of tissues and cartilage. All the parts of the nose must function cohesively and properly after surgery. Finding a qualified, experienced plastic surgeon like Dr. Khorsandi who is keenly aware of the intricate features of the nose and how they all work together is vital for end results you will love.

Rhinoplasty explained
Rhinoplasty, or nose reshaping, is for patients who wish to change the size, shape, or even profile of their nose. Most patients in Las Vegas choose rhinoplasty to change a cosmetic aspect about their nose. During your consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Christopher Khorsandi at VIP Plastic Surgery, the 3D VECTRA imaging simulator is used to show how your potential new nose will look on your face before even entering the operating room.

Patients enjoy the results of rhinoplasty as it can significantly improve not only their appearance but also give a needed boost to their self-confidence. The most common nose requests patients express to Dr. Khorsandi include:

• Turn down the tip of the nose, if turned up, to change a patient's profile

• Remove a bump on the bridge of the nose to improve a patient's profile

• Widen or narrow the nostrils

• Redefine a bulbous nasal tip

• Straighten or shorten a crooked nose

• Narrow the bridge of the nose if it is too wide

How is rhinoplasty surgery performed?
This outpatient surgery is performed at VIP's state-of-the-art accredited surgery center in Las Vegas, NV. General anesthesia is used to ensure patient comfort level. During your consultation, a plan will be devised by Dr. Khorsandi, including your anticipated final results. Based on that plan, Dr. Khorsandi will begin by making a small incision along the base of your nose, between your nostrils. Bone and cartilage will be readjusted to alter the shape of the nose. Once all changes have been made, skin and tissues are placed back in place, and the incisions are stitched. For patients who have difficulty breathing, cartilage grafts may be used to enhance specific areas of the nose to allow for better airflow. If revision surgery is needed from a previous rhinoplasty, additional cartilage may be harvested from behind the ear or from another location. Frequently, the bony parts of the nose need to be corrected with precise fracturing and resetting.

Recovery and results
Absorbable sutures will be placed inside the nostrils and do not need to be removed. Stitches along the incision at the base of the nose will be removed after about a week after surgery. A splint on the back of the nose is employed for additional protection. Patients are encouraged to avoid blowing their nose in the first week. Some bruising, discomfort, and swelling will occur immediately after surgery but can be alleviated with prescribed medications or over-the-counter options. It is vital that you give your body ample time to heal. Once swelling has subsided, your results will gradually begin to show.

Nonsurgical rhinoplasty
Nonsurgical rhinoplasty, also known as a liquid nose job, is for men and women who want a more subtle improvement, without invasive surgical nose reshaping. This is achieved by inserting hyaluronic acid filler, such as FDA approved Juvéderm®, into the nose to give it a more refined profile and elevate a down-sloping nasal tip. This treatment may also be used to alter a hump that presents after a previous rhinoplasty. Dr. Khorsandi will assess your facial structure and nose to determine candidacy for this technique.

Setting realistic expectations
Even though it's focused on a small target area, a rhinoplasty procedure can have a significant impact on a person's self-confidence. Setting reasonable expectations and understanding the details of the procedure itself will help ensure your results. Expert plastic surgeon Dr. Christopher Khorsandi at VIP Plastic Surgery in Las Vegas, NV, can literally help you change your profile. You no longer have to dislike your nose or deal with a nose-related medical issue. A surgical plan of action specifically tailored for you will be designed to enhance your rhinoplasty experience. If you are interested in learning more about rhinoplasty and if it is a fit for you, call and schedule your rhinoplasty consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Christopher Khorsandi at VIP Plastic Surgery today.