Rhinoplasty Explained

Before

After More Nasal Contouring pictures Rhinoplasty Surgery Importance of Rhinoplasty

Q-What is rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty, septorhinoplasty, or cosmetic nasal surgery is the proper term for what is commonly called a nose job. Rhinoplasty is one of the most complex and rewarding procedures a facial plastic surgeon can perform. The goal of rhinoplasty is to achieve a more harmonious and balanced nasal appearance while improving or maintaining breathing and sinus function. Because Dr. Clevens is a specialist in facial plastic surgery, limiting his practice 100% to facial and nasal surgery, you may confidently join the thousands of other Rhinoplasty patients who have trusted Dr. Clevens to achieve an improved nasal contour.

Q-Why are so many people concerned with the appearance of their nose?

Your nose is literally the center of your face, and though your eyes and lips are mobile and expressive, the nose is the most defining characteristic of the face. Dr. Clevens believes that the nose should be natural in appearance, fitting harmoniously with the patient’s facial characteristics; the nose should not appear operated upon. Women cannot improve the appearance of the nose with the clever use of make-up, as with the lips and eyes which can nearly be transformed at least temporarily by a skilled hand. Good bone structure cannot be faked. Men who have otherwise pleasing appearances may feel their face is overpowered by a too-prominent nose. The nose should inconspicuously blend into your face and allow the rest of your face to take center stage.

If you have ever felt your face would be far more attractive if only something about your nose were different, rhinoplasty is an option to explore and carefully consider. Even subtle alterations of your nasal contour or profile can greatly enhance your appearance. Common reasons people seek cosmetic rhinoplasty is to alter a nose that is too large, too small, crooked, or to change the contours of the bridge, tip, or nostrils.

Beyond appearances, rhinoplasty can improve nasal function. Traumatic accidents or simply being born with structurally imperfect sinuses can impair proper breathing. In this case, improved breathing can be achieved through rhinoplasty.

Q-How does the size of my the chin influence nasal appearance?

Patients seeking rhinoplasty may be surprised to learn that their chin plays an important role in the overall balance of your facial appearance. People usually only look at themselves from the front, and it is only when they catch themselves in profile that they might realize they have a weak chin. A recessed chin exaggerates nasal imperfections, making even a normal sized nose seem larger, and is easily corrected with the placement of a chin implant. Do not be surprised or offended if improvement of your chin in addition to your rhinoplasty is discussed in your consultation with Dr. Clevens. These procedures are often performed together and greatly enhance one another . If your chin is too small, your nose probably looks too big.

Q-Does Dr. Clevens perform cosmetic nasal surgery often?

Over one hundred men and women each year trust Dr. Clevens to perform nasal surgery. Patients who choose to undergo rhinoplasty performed by Dr. Clevens can expect to achieve improved nasal contour along with an improvement or preservation of breathing and sinus function. You can view many more examples of this procedure in his photo albums during your private consultation, and it will become obvious to you that Dr. Clevens possesses an impeccable sense of aesthetics along with a skilled hand. Rhinoplasty is one of the most intellectually challenging and intricate procedures a facial plastic surgeon seeks to master. Dr. Clevens has achieved his impressive mastery through his extensive technical training and his gifted innate sense of beauty and proportion that is unteachable.

Q-How can Dr. Clevens tell what I want? Does Dr. Clevens offer computerized video imaging?

Dr. Clevens offers complimentary computerized preview imaging to help you gain an idea of what your rhinoplasty results may look like. This is an important interactive component of your consultation with Dr. Clevens and his staff. Video imaging offers the patient the opportunity to convey to Dr. Clevens his or her desires in achieving an improved nasal contour.

Q-Who is the best candidate for rhinoplasty?

Physically healthy people who are unhappy with their nose or are looking for an improvement in their overall appearance or even breathing function may be good candidates for rhinoplasty. As with all aesthetic surgical procedures, patients must be realistic in their expectations.

Q-Are there any age restrictions for undergoing rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty may be performed at any time after facial growth has been completed. This usually translates into age 15-16 for women and age 16-17 for men. In cases where sinus function is compromised due to a traumatic injury or flawed nasal structure, surgery may be appropriate at an earlier age. There is no upper age limit for rhinoplasty.

Q-Where is rhinoplasty performed?

To ensure your safety and comfort, Dr. Clevens performs rhinoplasty in a state-licensed, fully accredited ambulatory surgical facility or outpatient center.

Q-What type of anesthesia is used during the rhinoplasty procedure?

Rhinoplasty may be performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia. Regardless, a board certified physician MD anesthesiologist will be responsible for administering your anesthesia or sedation. Dr. Clevens and your anesthesiologist will help determine what best suits your particular needs.

Q-How does Dr. Clevens perform rhinoplasty?

During the rhinoplasty procedure, Dr. Clevens makes incisions to separate the skin from its underlying framework. He then sculpts the bone and cartilage to the desired shape, the skin is replaced and the incisions are closed. Dr. Clevens will discuss in-depth with you what alterations are needed to achieve your desired results.

Q-How long does the actual rhinoplasty procedure last?

Rhinoplasty usually takes one to two hours to perform .

Q-Where are the incisions made for rhinoplasty? Are there scars after rhinoplasty?

When performing your rhinoplasty, Dr. Clevens may place incisions on the inside of your nose, known as closed rhinoplasty, or he may perform open rhinoplasty, where a small incision made on the underside of the nose between the nostrils. Whether you need an open or closed rhinoplasty will be discussed during your initial consultation. This depends on your individual case.

Q-Is the rhinoplasty procedure painful?

Patients may experience some discomfort as the head and nose may ache at first. This pain is typically mild and pain medication can be prescribed to help relieve any discomfort. Dr. Clevens and his staff are always there for you after your procedure should you encounter anything out of the ordinary after your procedure.

Q-What is the recovery like after rhinoplasty?

After rhinoplasty, some bleeding, swelling and bruising may occur. Much of the swelling fades within two weeks. Dr. Clevens usually does not use nasal packing. Dressings and splints are typically removed within one week..

Patients should know some unnoticeable swelling can remain for as long as a year, and your nasal contour may continue to change and final results may not be seen until that year mark.

Prescription pain medication can help to control any discomfort that patients experience. Dr. Clevens and his staff are devoted to delivering the best aftercare and aid you in the speediest and most comfortable recovery possible.

Q-How much time will I need to take off from work after undergoing rhinoplasty?

Patients are advised to take off one to two weeks of work after their rhinoplasty procedure. Dr. Clevens has an experienced team of medical aestheticians on his staff available to instruct you how to conceal any bruising and swelling that may remain when you are ready to return to your normal routine. After surgery care with our aestheticians is offered as a complimentary service to our patients.

Q-When can I exercise after undergoing rhinoplasty?

Even though you may feel ready to resume your normal physical activities and grow restless within a few days, to achieve the best results of your rhinoplasty, it is very important that you give your body it’s very best chance to recuperate and take it easy. The healing process is a delicate time, and you should cease your exercise regimen and avoid other strenuous activities for several weeks after your procedure. Taking part in any activity where you may be struck in the face, such as tennis or golf, should be avoided until Dr. Clevens feels it’s safe.

You should limit your sun exposure for eight weeks after rhinoplasty as the tissues are still very vulnerable in this time. You should also avoid alcohol consumption before your procedure and during your recovery.

Q-When are the stitches removed after the rhinoplasty procedure?

Dr. Clevens uses dissolving stitches that vanish a few days after your procedure.

Q-What are the risks or complications that can occur with rhinoplasty?

Patients should be informed that every surgical procedure carries certain risks and the potential for complications. The potential complications that may occur with rhinoplasty can include the following: stuffiness for 6-8 weeks following surgery, sensitivity to anesthesia, incomplete improvement, infection, nosebleeds, and the need for additional surgery.

Q-Does insurance cover the cost of rhinoplasty?

If your rhinoplasty procedure is performed solely to achieve a cosmetic benefit, insurance will not provide coverage. In such instances where your breathing function is being affected by your nasal structure, insurance may cover part or all of the cost of the procedure. Dr. Clevens has insurance specialists on staff who can help guide you through this process.

TRUST YOUR FACE TO THE SPECIALIST... Ross A. Clevens, MD, FACS is board-certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. He completed his undergraduate work at Yale University and earned his medical degree from Harvard Medical School. Dr. Clevens completed his residency and post-graduate Advanced Fellowship in Facial Plastic Surgery at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor.

A graduate of Yale, Harvard and Michigan, Dr. Clevens is Brevard's only fellowship-trained and board-certified facial plastic surgery specialist. Dr. Clevens specializes in nasal, facial and eyelid plastic surgery rather than plastic surgery in general to provide his patients the best in specialized care. Your specific concerns are best addressed in detail during your personal consultation with Dr. Clevens who was judged "Best of Brevard" by the readers of Florida Today in 2001-2007.

Please contact our offices in Melbourne and Merritt Island, Florida at 321.951.3223 or 888.438.3223 today to arrange your consultation.

You may contact us via email at info@drclevens.com or visit us on the web at www.drclevens.com.