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Rhinoplasty is nasal surgery which is designed to improve the appearance of the nose, and/or the function of the nose in regards to breathing.

Rhinoplasty is often considered the most challenging type of plastic surgery, and choosing the exact procedure involves studying the relationship of the nose to the rest of the face, and reshaping the nose to enhance facial balance. No other plastic surgery is individualized to the degree that rhinoplasty must be. A thorough examination, careful discussion of thepatient’s goals, and a review of photographic imaging are important in establishing the surgical plan. I usually recommend at least two separate preoperative consultations, to ensure clear communication between patient and surgeon, and to allow an accurate and complete analysis of the patient’s goals and nasal anatomy.

Either ‘closed’ or ‘open’ techniques of rhinoplasty may be performed. The closed technique uses only incisions inside the nostrils, and may suffice for more straight-forward rhinoplasties, for instance a first-time or ‘primary’ rhinoplasty that involves the reduction of a dorsal nasal prominence or ‘hump.’ In most cases, rhinoplasties will involve precise modification of the nasal tip, which is best performed using the ‘open’ technique. This procedure uses the same incisions as the closed technique, and adds a small incision across the columella (the column of tissue between the nostrils). A small external scar results, but this typically heals very well and can be nearly imperceptible. The advantage of the open technique is that is allows the surgeon to better visualize the framework of bone and cartilage that gives the nose its shape. The framework can be precisely altered with the open technique, so as to achieve the desired result with enhanced reliability and predictability.

Depending on the needs of the patient, rhinoplasty may involve the removal or repositioning of cartilage and bone, or the addition of cartilage from the nasal septum or ear. Other tissues, or even synthetic materials, are sometimes used.

When nasal surgery is performed to enhance breathing, procedures may include: septoplasty (modification of the nasal septum, which is the plate of cartilage between the right and left nasal passages), turbinate surgery (modification of tissues deep within the nasal cavity) , or alteration of the nasal framework– most often in an area of the upper nasal passages termed the ‘internal valve.’

Rhinoplasty is performed as an outpatient procedure, and under a general anesthetic in most cases. After the surgery, a splint is usually placed over the nose for protection and stabilization, and packing may be used in the nostrils if the nasal passages or nasal bones are altered. Pain and discomfort following the surgery are controlled with oral pain medication, and the stitches and splint are removed within one week after surgery. Nasal packing, when used, is removed within one to three days. Most patients feel comfortable returning to work within one to two weeks. Most bruising resolves within two weeks, though more subtle swelling may persist for longer periods.

For rhinoplasty in Beverly Hills contact board certified plastic surgeon Dr. George Rudkin.