Rhinoplasty in Westchester, NY
Many men and women experience concern due to the shape and size of their nose, whether their unhappiness stems from a birth defect or traumatic injury. Rhinoplasty enhances aesthetics and eases breathing capabilities by surgically altering the underlying bone, cartilage, tissue, and skin.
Am I a Candidate for Rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty is performed on men and women to correct aesthetic and functional nasal concerns caused by structural defects of the nose. Candidates for rhinoplasty do not smoke, are in good overall health, and have realistic expectations of their results. This is one of the few cosmetic procedures that can be performed on teenagers. To be considered for the procedure, teenagers must have a fully developed nasal structure. This typically happens around the age of 14 for girls and 15 to 16 for boys.
Rhinoplasty can correct:
- Noses that are too small or too large for the face
- Wide bridges
- Humps or bumps on the bridge
- Flared or pinched nostrils
- Crooked noses
- Drooping nasal tips
- Upturned nasal tips
- Bulbous tips
Rhinoplasty can also be performed to improve nasal function. Septoplasty is a variation of rhinoplasty that straightens a deviated septum and allows for better and easier breathing.
How Is Rhinoplasty Performed?
Rhinoplasty is a nuanced surgery that is significantly impacted by millimeters of change. Every rhinoplasty is unique and tailored to the specific needs of the patient.
Many patients experience the narrowing of the nasal bridge, the altering of the nostril openings, the reshaping of the nasal tip, or the general straightening of an off-center nose.
Closed Rhinoplasty
Closed rhinoplasty is preferred for patients who require minimal to moderate nasal adjustment. Incisions are made within the nostrils (to avoid external scarring). Depending on the patient’s needs, the cartilage and bone may be shaved down (reduction), or grafts may be added to augment the nose. These grafts are taken from the septum, ear, or rib.
Since the incisions are made within the nostrils, there will be no visible scarring.
Open Rhinoplasty
Open rhinoplasty is usually chosen for patients who require more significant alterations to the nasal structure. An external incision is required along the base of the nose between the nostrils (columella) that will allow your surgery to lift the skin for better visualization.
Depending on the patient’s needs, the cartilage and bone may be shaved down (reduction), or grafts may be added to augment the nose. These grafts are taken from the septum, ear, or rib.
Residual scarring may develop across the base of the nose, but this heals well and is nearly invisible.
What Is My Rhinoplasty Recovery Like?
Rhinoplasty is an outpatient procedure, but you will need a friend or family member to drive you to and from our cosmetic surgery center. You will need to wear a nasal splint for at least five to seven days, and your nose may be packed with gauze.
You may experience some troubles breathing while the gauze and splint are in place, and it would be best if you kept your face upright while you rested and slept to encourage proper blood flow.
There will be swelling and slight bruising around your eyes and cheeks that may take a week or more to subside. You will want to avoid any strenuous workouts for at least three to six weeks, and avoid any actions that could potentially cause trauma to the nose while healing.
What Results Can I Expect After Rhinoplasty?
While your final rhinoplasty results can take six months to one year to fully develop, you will be able to return to your normal schedule (including work and other social engagements) after two to three weeks without any noticeable signs of the surgery.
Rhinoplasty results are considered permanent and should not be affected by aging or other similar factors. It is very challenging to determine how a patient will heal from rhinoplasty, and additional cosmetic surgeries may be necessary to adjust results.
Rhinoplasty is usually performed as a standalone procedure; however, it could be performed in conjunction with facelift surgery, mini-facelift surgery, or eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty)to enhance facial rejuvenation.
Interested In Learning More?
If you are displeased by the shape or size of your nose or have difficulty breathing through your nose, rhinoplasty may be able to help you. Contact Westchester Cosmetic Surgical Arts by calling (646) 559-2854 or by filling out our online contact form to schedule a consultation with one of our board-certified cosmetic surgeons.
We serve patients in Westchester, New York, and the surrounding areas.
