Posts Tagged ‘Rhinoplasty’

The Best Age for Rhinoplasty

Wednesday, June 23rd, 2010

Many people would be interested in knowing what the best age for a rhinoplasty procedure is. To tell you the truth, a lot of this depends on the basic circumstances surrounding the procedure.  Usually you have to wait until your nose has completed finished growing, which happens approximately between the ages of 15 to 17. But this can also differ depending on the gender of the potential rhinoplasty candidate. Females may usually undergo the procedure between fourteen and fifteen years of age, while males may have to wait as late as 20 years of age.

Discuss this with your Los Angeles rhinoplasty surgeon as he/she may feel that your nose has not completely finished growing and thus will recommend that you not undergo rhinoplasty surgery.

It is absolutely clear that you may not like your nose, even in teenage years, but the fact of it is that until your body has completed grown, it is senseless to undergo any cosmetic surgery. There are many people out there who want rhinoplasty because they do not like the way their nose looks, but in 5 or so years when they stop their development they decide that they are happy with their nose the way it is.

So before deciding that you have no other choice and have to get the procedure done, it is important to make sure that your nose has fully developed.

There are cases when the nose has a malformation that may be causing a medical health issue, in which case all of these things may be set aside. In case of a malformation, the aesthetic and psychological effects of rhinoplasty are set aside to remedy a health problem.  Should you have a medical issue like difficulty in breathing which can be remedied by a rhinoplasty procedure, then you will also have to discuss this with a rhinoplasty surgeon to make sure that you can qualify for reconstructive and not a cosmetic rhinoplasty procedure.

Schedule a free consultation with a board-certified Los Angeles rhinoplasty surgeon Armen Vartany to discuss your individual case.

Open Rhinoplasty

Friday, June 18th, 2010

Open rhinoplasty is a technique for nasal surgery where the cartilage of the nose is exposed by peeling back the nasal skin. This is done with a small outside incision on the “columella”, the aspect of the nose sandwiched between the two nostrils, and additional incisions placed inside the nose. The incision placed outside usually heals well and rarely causes cosmetic problems. These incisions have the form of a zigzag.

Advantages of Open Rhinoplasty

Grafting is generally performed more extensively in open nasal operations than with endonasal or ‘closed’ rhinoplasty. Unfortunately, this ease of exposure and grafting does not necessarily translate into a better outcome for every patient.
Revision rhinoplasty is still a common procedure sought out even after open nasal reshaping plastic surgery. Some extensive secondary reconstructive rhinoplasties are best approached through the open technique. The closed rhinoplasty operation may truly be inferior for these complicated revision rhinoplasties.


Disadvantages of Open Rhinoplasty

An open rhinoplasty lasts longer. Usually, the additional time necessary for opening and closing the nose easily adds an additional hour or more to the overall surgery time. As a rule open rhinoplasty takes 3 hours.
There may be more scaring after an open nasal reshaping operation. More surgical dissection and separation of tissues are necessary for the open rhinoplasty procedure. These operated nasal tissues have to heal afterwards which means scaring. Scaring may cause thickening of tissues or it may create forces which can pull structures in unwanted directions. Thus, added support with grafting is important. The additional scaring is more important, if revision surgery becomes necessary.
The swelling may last longer. No scientific studies have been performed to prove this notion but rhinoplasty surgeons who perform both, open and closed rhinoplasties, observed this difference. Reasons lie in the additional surgical dissection required for open rhinoplasty and the extra healing necessary afterwards. Though these advantages and disadvantages of open rhinoplasty are real, they do not make this operation better or worse if compared to the closed approach.

Is a Nose Job Permanent and Does It Result in Permanent Scars?

Wednesday, June 9th, 2010

Unlike breast augmentation, face lift and many other cosmetic surgeries, rhinoplasty lasts forever, since once removed, bone or cartridge will never regrow.

If a nose job is carried out properly, the results should not deteriorate over time. However, in case of a poor rhinoplasty procedure, nostrils may begin to pinch or scar tissue can form.

Though nose surgery results are permanent, the aging process will have an effect on the appearance of your nose as your face changes, but the overall reshaping and new nasal structure should remain the same. Though nose reshaping surgery is permanent, many people prefer revisiting their surgeon to keep track of the progress of their nose. In such cases if they feel any changes do need to be made, they are able to consult their Los Angeles rhinoplasty surgeon and discuss their options.

Despite the permanence of rhinoplasty results, you may want to reshape your nose again as your face matures and is reshaped with age or you may simply want to touch up your surgery after the initial rhinoplasty. If you wish to do this, then you should undergo revision rhinoplasty. This procedure can be ideal for enhancing or revising the poor aspects of your initial rhinoplasty.

Scaring after rhinoplasty

Some slight and almost unnoticeable scarring is inevitable after rhinoplasty. The extant of scaring depends on the type of nose surgery: a closed rhinoplasty surgery creates scars only on the inside of the nose, whereas an open rhinoplasty which may be necessary for more extensive reshaping, creates only one external scar at the base of the columella. This scar fades over time, becoming nearly impossible for others to detect.

Bruising after Rhinoplasty: How can I Reduce it?

Tuesday, June 1st, 2010

Post-surgical bruising is just a blood strain on the underside of the skin and is quite normal after rhinoplasty. Since eyelids are the thinnest pieces of skin on the entire body, most of the bruising is concentrated around the eyes.

The extent of bruising after rhinoplasty is individual, some patients may experience very little noticeable bruising, while others may suffer from dark marks above and below the eyes that resemble the classic “black eye” for some days. Bruises do not indicate any serious complication and should disappear by the tenth day after the nose job. Here are some tips to reduce bruising and minimize discoloration.

First, you should stop using anything that might contain blood thinning agents which can be found in many products like aspirin and wine for at least 2 weeks prior to the procedure.

It is also important to quit smoking. It is proven that patients who do not smoke have a better healing ability and a smaller chance of extensive bruising then those patients who smoke since the nicotine lowers the ability to fight off infections as well as naturally repair the body after an injury like a nose job.

Prepare plenty of ice packs that, if used properly, can significantly reduce swelling and bruising. Elevate your head above the rest of your body when using the ice packs so that blood is not rushed into the area from gravity.

Keep irritations to your nasal cavity to a minimum. Any type of touching or scratching may irritate the healing tissue under the skin and may increase bruising.

If you have a history of bruising, inform your Los Angeles rhinoplasty surgeon so that he/she may take proper precautions to minimize any unsightly bruising.

In case your nose job surgeon notices that something goes wrong during the rhinoplasty recovery period, he/she will advise you what additional measures you should take to reduce post-surgical bruising.

Ethnic Rhinoplasty

Wednesday, May 26th, 2010

“Ethnic rhinoplasty” is a cosmetic surgery procedure performed on non-Caucasians. Historically ideal nasal proportions have been based on Caucasian white females’ facial features. As a result most non-Caucasian individuals have become “victims” of Westernized standards when considering rhinoplasty.

However, these standards are now being replaced by more multicultural ones. The current beauty trends encourage the improvement of nasal features only with the maintenance of ethnic characteristics.

Modern rhinoplasty concentrates on the fact that different ethnicities have different nasal characteristics which requires a unique approach to every patient. The goal of ethnic rhinoplasty is to achieve optimal aesthetic results without diminishing cultural background and heritage.

Some common techniques that are generally employed in ethnic rhinoplasty include bridge augmentation and nasal base reduction. Bridge augmentation can be performed using one’s own cartilage or other well tolerated implant materials. Nasal base reduction can reduce the size of the nostrils as well as narrow the overall width of the nose base.

The results of ethnic rhinoplasty surgery can be as good as those of Caucasian nose jobs. Plastic surgeons can alter the nose to make it appear straighter, longer, narrower and more aesthetically pleasing. Whatever the patient’s race or gender, the goal is the same: change the nose to give the face a better sense of symmetry, balance and straightness.

Ethnic patients should select a board certified Los Angeles nose job surgeon who can address their individual needs. Special care must be taken to discuss the ethnicity-related issues during the rhinoplasty consultation process.

The First Week after Rhinoplasty

Tuesday, May 25th, 2010

During the first post-operative week you should limit your activities as much as possible. Though you are encouraged to walk about the house, you should avoid bending at the waist or lifting heavy objects. Remember that overexertion may result in bleeding. When sleeping try to keep your head elevated on 2-3 pillows and avoid turning on your side.

Do not lose control over your emotions. Post-rhinoplasty depression is usual, but do not let it take over you. Crying will only add to the swelling and initiate bleeding. This state will quickly pass as you will begin to feel and look better.

Use plenty of fluids and easily chewable foods for at least the first week after your nose surgery. Clean around your nostrils with hydrogen peroxide three times a day. After cleaning, place a little amount of Vaseline or antibiotic ointment around the nostrils to keep them from drying out.

During the first post-rhinoplasty week, swelling will obstruct your nasal passages making it harder to breathe. You may use a humidifier which will make breathing through the mouth more comfortable. Blowing or sniffing should be avoided as it will only irritate the healing tissues and slow down the rhinoplasty recovery. Sneeze with your mouth open to decrease the pressure on your nose and reduce the risk of bleeding.

You may take a bath in the tub on the first day after the nose job, while showering is allowed on the second post-operative day only. Try to keep the cast dry while taking a bath or shower (in case the cast becomes wet, dry it with the help of a blow dryer). Washing your face with a mild soap is also allowed. Avoid being in smoke-filled areas as excessive smoke may irritate the nasal tissue. The use of alcoholic beverages is also not encouraged as it may increase your chances of bleeding.

For further questions concerning your activities during the first post-surgical week, contact your Los Angeles rhinoplasty surgeon.

Is Rhinoplasty Expensive for You?

Thursday, May 20th, 2010

The price of rhinoplasty is sometimes the only reason that keeps people from achieving the appearance they dream of. However there are several financing options with which one may afford a nose job.

1.    Start saving money before the procedure and pay upfront

This is the best and most profitable way which saves you money in the long term since you won’t have to pay interest. In this case, rhinoplasty would cost you anywhere from $2,000 to $8,000 depending on how much work you need to be done. If you just need a tip job, you can pay as little as $2,000. Some rhinoplasty surgeons may also require consultation fees which fluctuate between $50 to $100.

2.     Borrow money from a relative

The next option is borrowing money from a friend or a relative. Though this method may work only for some people, it has a huge advantage: there is no interest! Besides, you can expect your friends and relatives to be more lenient than a financing company.

3.     Turn to a financing company

There are financing companies that specialize in funding rhinoplasty surgery and other plastic surgery operations. The main disadvantage of turning to financial companies is that interest rates may be high. To lesson your financing burden you may overpay the minimum each month, which in the long run will cut down the interest rate.

Talk to your Beverly Hills rhinoplasty surgeon about  cosmetic surgery financing. He/she will recommend you the best option.

4.     Find out whether your case may be covered by insurance or not

Sometimes your health insurance might cover the procedure in case you need to fix your nose for health considerations i.e., if you have breathing problems or other health problems related to your nose.

Schedule a free consultation with board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Vartany to discuss your financial options in details.

Three Criteria for Undergoing Rhinoplasty

Tuesday, May 18th, 2010

Rhinoplasty is one of the most common procedures performed in Los Angeles. Despite its popularity, it is not appropriate for everyone. There are several criteria which determine whether or not one is a right rhinoplasty candidate.

Criterion 1. Patient’s General Health

Consult with your Los Angelos rhinoplasty surgeon about your general health before undergoing any surgical procedure. Even if you are healthy but are on any medications, speak to your doctor. Even a minor health problem may lead to serious complications during the surgery or the rhinoplasty recovery phase. Remember that only a candid talk with your doctor will allow you to come to a final decision. If your health is poor, the nose job surgeon should refuse to operate on you.

Criterion  2. Reasons for Getting Rhinoplasty

People tend to believe that a change in their appearance will heal a broken heart, cure depression or fill an emotional void. Unfortunately this is not true. If a patient who wants to undergo rhinoplasty hopes that the surgical procedure is powerful enough to bring such psychological benefits, he/she might be much more frustrated after the surgery discovering that they don’t feel happier.

You are a good candidate for rhinoplasty only if your main goal for undergoing rhinoplasty is simply improving your looks, your comfort level or your health.

Criterion  3. Age requirements

Age criterion is also among the most important ones. The recommended age for girls is 14 or 15, while for boys it is slightly later. If nose job is performed before the face has completely matured, a revision rhinoplasty may be required to correct any shifting that may take place during the maturation process.

Nose Job to Improve Your Profile

Monday, May 17th, 2010

Because the nose is a prominent feature on the face, it immediately draws attention and cannot be hidden in any way.  An imperfect nose shape may cause psychological depression and poor self-esteem. This is the main reason why so many people resort to the help of rhinoplasty to reshape their nose, correct its imperfections or deformities and make it more appealing.

The success of a nose job usually begins with the first consultation, when the rhinoplasty surgeon evaluates the patient’s suitability for nose plastic surgery, examines his/her mental vision of the nose and discusses various possibilities to find the best suited treatment for each individual patient.

Before getting the procedure, make sure the Los Angeles rhinoplasty surgeon you have chosen

  • has extensive knowledge of modern surgical techniques and skills
  • is board certified
  • has had many years experience in rhinoplasty
  • undergoes regular training.

Before the rhinoplasty procedure, the plastic surgeon will give you a list of instructions to follow. The procedure is generally performed under general or local anesthesia. The rhinoplasty surgeon makes an incision across the columella or inside the nostrils, reworks the soft tissues of the nose, reshapes the cartilage, the bone and finally closes the wounds.

During the rhinoplasty recovery process, the doctor usually encourages the patient to stay at home for a week. The sutures and the cast are mostly removed a week after the surgery. Over the first year while the wound is healing it is possible that the nose will shift and settle to some minor extent.

Once properly healed, the patient can go forward with a new shaped nose and a greater sense of confidence to face the world.

If you still have doubts on whether you need to undergo a nose job surgery or not or have some unanswered questions about the procedure, don’t delay to schedule a free consultation with a board certified Los Angeles rhinoplasty surgeon today!

Rhinoplasty Myths

Friday, May 7th, 2010

Rhinoplasty or nose job is a widespread cosmetic surgery procedure all over the world. Yet there are many myths about rhinoplasty. Here are some common myths.

Myth 1 The Nose Can Be Recreated into Any Form Desired

Plastic surgeons cannot just give you a nose to match that of your favorite celebrity. They simply modify your current nose. For instance, nostrils can be trimmed and slimmed or supplemental bridges can be implanted. But if you persist on unrealistic expectations of what a rhinoplasty can do for you, most surgeons will refuse to operate on you because they know you will be disappointed with the results.

Myth 2 Rhinoplasty Noses are Very Fragile

Mainly those who are fitted for nose bridge implants often hear this myth. They are afraid the implants can be easily bent out of place. Any problems with the placement of the bridge will be obvious as soon as the swelling resides and can usually be corrected. But patients can resume all their normal activities such as work, exercise and sports without fear of undermining their results.

Myth 3 There Will Be No Scars

Alas this myth is not true. The scars are usually so well placed that they are hidden after the healing process is complete. The incisions are typically made inside the nostrils or along the natural crease of the outside of the nostrils making the scars very difficult to spot. You should be aware that the scars will be visible until they heal.  This can take as long as 6 weeks.

There are many other myths floating around about rhinoplasty cosmetic surgery, so be sure to talk to a qualified, experienced plastic surgeon to have all your questions answered with facts, not falsehoods.