There are many benefits to having a rhinoplasty that include improved self confidence and a better balance to your face. A rhinoplasty can improve the entire appearance of the face. However, many individuals are apprehensive about the procedure because of common misassumptions that are associated with rhinoplasties, so let’s address some of them:
Breaking the Nose
During a rhinoplasty, a plastic surgeon will make a precise cut along the bone in a specific area that is known as an osteotomy, which will make the nose straighter or more narrow. A plastic surgeon uses a tool called an osteotome. An osteotome doesn’t chip away at the bone like a chisel, but it cuts precisely along the bone for less trauma and typically faster healing.
Does an Osteotomy Cause More Pain?
For most patients, a rhinoplasty causes little pain. In addition, when an osteotomy is administered, it won’t increase the pain. There are even some individuals who don’t need pain medication after a rhinoplasty, but it is common for patients to use pain medication after the procedure.
Why Does a Plastic Surgeon Perform an Osteotomy?
An osteotomy is administered to alter the shape of the nasal bones. This procedure is ideal for those with crooked noses or those who have suffered from previous trauma to the nose. There are times when individuals with nasal humps will need an osteotomy because reducing the hump will make the nose appear wider, and an osteotomy will narrow the nose to improve its overall appearance of the face.
Is an Osteotomy Part of Every Rhinoplasty?
There are some patients who need an osteotomy and some who don’t, as it’s only a small step in a rhinoplasty procedure. It is important to keep in mind that every patient is different with unique needs, and Dr. Frankel will customize each patient’s nose to meet their aesthetic goals.
How is a Rhinoplasty Performed?
In most cases, it will take a plastic surgeon about one to two hours to complete the procedure. However, this depends on the alterations that are needed to achieve the desired look. There are many patients who choose to have an additional procedure, such as a brow lift or facelift, when they have a rhinoplasty. When additional procedures are paired with a rhinoplasty, it will add time to the procedure. A rhinoplasty can be performed in a surgical clinic, a plastic surgeon’s office, or a hospital.
Prior to the procedure, you will be given an intravenous line to administer fluids and medications during the rhinoplasty. After you are sedated, your face will be cleaned with an antibacterial solution, and the surgeon will make the necessary incisions to get to the nasal bone. During an open rhinoplasty, an incision will be made between the nostrils, and an incision will be made inside the nostrils during a closed rhinoplasty.
When the bones are broken, a plastic surgeon will move them together to create a narrow bridge and give the nose additional alterations if needed. When the nose is broken and reset to narrow the bridge, it is called in infracture. When the nose will be made wider after the nose is broken, it is known as an outfracture. When all of the alterations have been carried out, a plastic surgeon will close the incisions with sutures. Packing can be used to reduce swelling and bleeding, and it can also hold the nose it the correct position. Medical tape or a cast, which can be plaster, plastic, or metal, will be applied to your nose for protection and to help speed healing. Although the bones will fuse together quickly, it is best to avoid strenuous activity until your plastic surgeon recommended otherwise.
Recovery from a rhinoplasty will vary based on several factors, which may include if the procedure was paired with another or how well you follow post operative instructions. In most circumstances, you will be cleared to leave when you are fully awake. In addition, you will also need someone to drive you home, or there are some plastic surgeons who offer concierge services.
If you are considering a rhinoplasty, it is important to have the procedure administered by a skilled and experienced plastic surgeon, such as Dr. Andrew Frankel. Dr. Frankel’s practice is located at the Lasky Clinic in Beverly Hills. Dr. Frankel is board certified in Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery and Facial and Reconstructive Plastic Surgery. In addition, Dr. Frankel specializes in rhinoplasty and revision surgery. Aside from rhinoplasties, Dr. Frankel also performs brow lifts, facelifts, and many other cosmetic procedures.
