Computer imaging is an exciting innovation in rhinoplasty that allows patients to visualize their possible surgical outcomes. Visualization has traditionally been achieved by the manual manipulation of photographs; nowadays the technological developments in the areas of optical sensing and computer-aided design, make it possible to construct a computer-based imaging system which can simulate the effects of nose surgery on patients.

This technology allows the plastic surgeon and the patient to reach a mutual understanding of goals and expectations. However, it is important to realize that imaging, no matter how realistic and reasonable it is, is for simulation only and the final results may vary from the simulation.  No reputable Los Angeles rhinoplasty surgeon will ever guarantee a specific result. Computer imaging simply ensures that you and your surgeon share a common surgical goal and helps to establish the ideal aesthetic outcome. For example, a patient who has a moderately enlarged nose but a small chin, with the help of imaging, may find that what he/she actually desires is a conservative rhinoplasty and chin augmentation for facial balance rather than an intensive reduction rhinoplasty.

To visualize the post-rhinoplasty results the surgeon will take photos of your nose from different angles, download those images into the imaging software and with the help of a morphing program, manipulate the images to show the potential plastic surgery results. With this technology patients and surgeons can review different surgical options. After the imaging is complete, the surgeon will print a copy of the imaging for the patient and keep another copy to review on the operating day.

Computer imaging is also helpful for those patients who are considering nose surgery but are not totally sure whether rhinoplasty is for them or not, since it allows them to see the potential surgical results before making their final decision.