Rhinoplasty (Nose Surgery)
Surgery performed by Dr. Schenden
Rhinoplasty, or surgery to reshape the nose, is one of the most common of all plastic surgery procedures. This is a surgery that requires great finesse, a detailed analysis, and an intense training to increase likelihood of a successful outcome. An ideal nose should be in harmony and balanced with the remaining facial features to create beauty. This surgery often known as “the surgery of millimeters” is specific to gender, ethnicity, age, body type, and facial characteristics. Rhinoplasty is heavily scrutinized by the beauty industry and must be individualized to each patient.
Our objective is to provide you with cutting-edge surgical approach that combines safe and efficient surgical techniques, resulting in a high degree of patient satisfaction.
Our approach involves using 3D imaging software technology to individualize patient assessment, and simulate the outcome at the consultation to enhance visualization. The objective is to assure patient safety while at the same time individualizing the surgical technique to optimize aesthetic outcome, safety, and down-time.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Rhinoplasty involves reshaping the nose to enhance the aesthetic appearance and/or improve difficulties with breathing. After a thorough physical examination and a detailed analysis using 3D Vectra technology, rhinoplasty is individualized to patient desires. Rhinoplasty can be performed to meet aesthetic goals (improve shape) or for reconstruction to correct acquired birth or traumatic breathing difficulties.
THE BEST CANDIDATES FOR RHINOPLASTY
The best candidates for rhinoplasty are patients seeking an improvement in the shape of the nose or breathing difficulties. Ideal candidates are seeking an improvement but not perfection and have realistic expectations, healthy, nonsmokers, off select medications (ask your Plastic Surgeon), and have completed their growth spurt.
PLANNING YOUR SURGERY
In the initial consultation, Dr. Schenden will evaluate your health, examine and analyze the nose, and carefully assess your skin tone. Our Vectra 3D Imaging Software allows you to visualize what your results will be prior to surgery. Dr. Schenden will ensure your questions are answered and your goals are understood. Patient expectations are important to discuss at the consultation. Surgical technique is individualized to each patient based on shape and breathing. Be sure to mention smoking, medications, medical history, and previous surgeries.
PREPARING FOR YOUR SURGERY
Our qualified staff will give you specific instructions on how to prepare for surgery, including guidelines on diet, medications, activity level, and smoking. Detailed instructions on activity before and after surgery will be discussed. If you smoke, plan to quit at least 4-6 weeks before the scheduled surgery otherwise an increased risk for infection and wound healing will occur. Avoid sun exposure before and after surgery as this may interfere with your scar.
WHERE YOUR SURGERY WILL BE PERFORMED
Patient preference will be incorporated into this decision. We have the option of outpatient or inpatient surgery but the majority of rhinoplasty patients are performed as an outpatient surgery. The facilities we are privileged to operate from include Columbia Surgery Center (our private surgical suite) and William Beaumont Hospital of Troy, MI where Dr. Schenden is Chief of Plastic Surgery.
TYPES OF ANESTHESIA
General Anesthesia (complete sleep) or I.V. sedation with local anesthesia (twilight anesthesia) may be individualized based on complexity of the procedure and patient preference. Complex rhinoplasty may require a short overnight stay.
THE SURGERY
Rhinoplasty usually takes two to five hours, depending on the complexity. Closed (internal incision) or open approach (external incisions) may be performed. Either technique may be preformed but individualized based on complexity and patient preference. In cosmetic rhinoplasty, the nose will be improved by reshaping the bone & cartilage framework and redraping the skin to achieve the desired outcome discussed at the consultation. In reconstructive rhinoplasty emphasis is placed on improving the airway by correcting a nasal airway obstruction or deviated septum. A cosmetic & reconstructive rhinoplasty may be combined. Nasal packing and a splint will be placed at the completion of the procedure.
AFTER YOUR SURGERY
As expected, pain will be present. We cannot eliminate your pain completely after surgery but will significantly control it to tolerable levels with medications. Detailed instructions will be discussed at your pre and post-operative visits. Normally you may return to work after 2 weeks but with light duty and no heavy lifting or strenuous activity for 6 weeks. Swelling is expected with the majority of the swelling will improve within the first 4 weeks after surgery. Expect the final outcome of the rhinoplasty at 6 months after surgery. Scar will continue to mature (color change) up to 12 months. Contact lenses may be worn after surgery but eye glasses will need to be taped to avoid interference during wound healing. Splint is typically removed at 5-7 days after surgery. Short and frequent follow up visits will be scheduled after surgery to ensure appropriate progression during recovery.
RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH RHINOPLASTY
Every surgical procedure involves a certain amount of risk and it is important that you understand these risks and the possible complications associated with them. In addition, every procedure has limitations. An individual’s choice to undergo a surgical procedure is based on the comparison of the risk to potential benefit. Although the majority of patients do not experience complications, you should discuss them with your plastic surgeon to make sure you understand all possible consequences of rhinoplasty.
WHY CHOOSE REVITALIZE PLASTIC SURGERY
Offering advanced procedures, our surgical practice is led by first-class surgeons and a highly skilled medical team. Combining education, experience and skill with a focus on both the science and the art of medical aesthetics, we take a holistic approach to each patient’s treatment plan. Patient education, safety and, of course, results, are our utmost priorities.