The Way Your Facial Features Relate to Each Other Affects Your Overall Look

Our facial features affect our facial balance. Among the different features that play an important role in facial balance, the nose is arguably the most prominent (other features being the chin, lips, eyes, and ears).

For a flawless look, the size and shape of your nose should be in symmetry with your chin and cheeks. Not everyone has a perfectly shaped nose; however, that does not mean people with asymmetrical noses cannot achieve their desired look. To ensure better facial symmetry and help patients get a more balanced look, we perform rhinoplasty surgery.

Rhinoplasty: An Introduction

Rhinoplasty is a procedure performed to address symmetry problems and other nasal imperfections. It can correct congenital defects and deformities caused due to fractures. In many cases, the procedure is performed to improve breathing.

Rhinoplasty surgery involves the alteration of cartilage, bone, and/or soft tissue. Before performing a rhinoplasty, surgeons consider the dimensions and locations of the other facial features. Because of this, correcting the appearance of the nose can also improve the overall appearance of the face.

The Rhinoplasty Procedure and What to Expect

Rhinoplasty is an outpatient procedure. Either general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation is used before the procedure in order to ensure patient comfort throughout the surgery.

Once the anesthesia takes effect, Dr. Gantous either creates small incisions within the nostrils or an incision across the columella (the external section of skin separating the nostrils).

Through these incisions, Dr. Gantous reshapes the bones and cartilage as needed. He may also harvest cartilage from the nose, ear, or rib to create grafts, which strengthen parts of the nasal architecture.

The final step involves closing the incisions using sutures. Usually, the entire process takes anywhere between two and three hours.

Ideal Candidates for Rhinoplasty Surgery

An ideal candidate for rhinoplasty is someone who:

• Is at least 18 years of age. In cases involving severe breathing issues, the age limit can be relaxed to 16 years.
• Is experiencing aesthetic issues due to congenital defects or injuries
• Has realistic expectations
• Is not experiencing any major medical issues (such as bleeding disorders) that may be aggravated due to surgery
• Does not have a medical history of nasal obstructions

Preparation

To prepare for rhinoplasty, you will need to stop taking herbal remedies, over-the-counter medications, aspirin, and ibuprofen at least a couple of weeks before the procedure. This will help to avoid bleeding-related complications. You should also stop smoking at least a month before surgery.

On the day of your rhinoplasty, it will be necessary to avoid consuming food or liquid six hours before surgery.

Post-Operative Care Instructions

• Avoid strenuous activities for at least a week after the procedure.
• Do not wash your face for a week after surgery.
• Once the incision sites heal, start cleaning your nose regularly.
• Avoid blowing or picking your nose.
• Use clothing that fastens in the front so you do not have to pull it over your head.
• Lubricate your nostrils regularly.
• Avoid facial tanning for at least six months after the procedure.
• Before leaving the house, apply a sunblock of SPF 30 or higher to your nose.

Interested in a More Attractive Nose?

A consultation is the first step to getting the nose you deserve. Contact our office today to set up your rhinoplasty consultation with Dr. Andres Gantous, a well-respected facial plastic surgery specialist.