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The term rhinoplasty means, “nose molding” or “nose forming.” Also known in more colloquial terms as a “nose job” it refers to a plastic surgery procedure in which the structure of the nose is changed. The change can be made by adding or removing bone or cartilage; grafting tissues form another part of the body, or implanting synthetic material to alter the shape of the nose.
Rhinoplasty is the second most common cosmetic procedure among both men and women, but it also one of the trickiest in terms of surgical technique — and it demands the skill and artistry of a trained expert like Dr. Moradzadeh.
When rhinoplasty is performed to improve breathing that has been impaired due to the formation of the nose or to an injury, it’s known as functional rhinoplasty. When the surgery is performed to improve the nose’s appearance, it’s referred to as cosmetic rhinoplasty.
Through cosmetic rhinoplasty, the nose can be made larger or smaller; the angle of the nose can be changed in relation to the upper lip; the tip of the nose can be altered; or other imperfections like bumps, indentations and other defects can be corrected.
Understanding the Procedure
During rhinoplasty, the surgeon makes incisions to access the bones and cartilage that support the nose. Depending on the desired result, some bone and cartilage may be removed, or tissue may be added (either from another part of the body or using a synthetic filler). After Dr. Moradzadeh has rearranged and reshaped the bone and cartilage, the skin and tissue are redraped over the structure of the nose. A splint is placed outside the nose to support the new shape of the nose as it heals. Nasal packing may be used inside the nose to provide additional support.
What to Expect Afterwards
Internal and external splints will remain on the patient for about a week after the surgery, and then removed by the surgeon. The individual may experience bruising and swelling for the first few weeks after the procedure and should count on taking at least 7 days off from work or school.
Is Cosmetic Rhinoplasty Right for You?
One of the prominent features of the face, the nose can have a big impact on a person’s self-image and appearance. If you’re unhappy with your nose and have been so for a long time, talk to Dr. Moradzadeh about whether or not rhinoplasty is a reasonable option to consider. As with other cosmetic procedures, you’re more likely to be happy with the results of rhinoplasty if you have clear, realistic expectations about what the surgery can achieve. During your consultation, Dr. Moradzadeh will discuss these issues with you.
The results of cosmetic rhinoplasty can be minor or significant, depending on the kind of correction a patient wants. The results of rhinoplasty are permanent, although subsequent injury or other factors can alter the nose’s appearance. Cosmetic surgery should be done on a fully developed nose, which usually occurs by age 15 or 16 in females and by age 17 or 18 in males. If surgery is done before this time, continued development of the nose can alter the surgical results and possibly cause complications.
Insurance companies will not cover the costs of rhinoplasty for cosmetic purposes.
