Rhinoplasty – Nose Surgery

Double Board-Certified Nose Surgeon in Dallas, TX

Rhinoplasty (nose job) is a procedure that re-shapes the nose, resulting in a more proportional fit with the rest of the face.

Who is a candidate for rhinoplasty?

Often, people undergo rhinoplasty because they are unhappy with the appearance of their nose and feel that it detracts from the rest of their face. They may complain about the size of their nose, a hump or bump, a broad nasal tip, large nostrils or a crooked appearance. At times, a patient may have difficulty breathing because of an internal problem like a deviated septum. If you are in good overall health and not a smoker, you may be a good candidate for rhinoplasty if you have any of these concerns. Dr. Farris strives to achieve a natural improved look that will complement and enhance the rest of your face.

How is a rhinoplasty performed?

There are two types of rhinoplasty, closed and open techniques. They differ in the placement of the incision and extent of exposure. With closed rhinoplasty, the incisions are placed completely within the nostrils. In open rhinoplasty, a small incision is placed on the outside at the underside of the nose between the nostrils and connects to internal incisions inside the nostrils. The open rhinoplasty method allows greater exposure of the nasal anatomy and a more direct approach to manipulate the underlying structures. In most situations, it is the preferred approach for Dr. Farris. It provides the most control and a better chance for a predictable result despite the prolonged swelling and the small scar at the base of the nose that becomes nearly invisible over time.

Dr. Farris will customize your rhinoplasty procedure to address your specific anatomical issues. Your concerns will be addressed and a surgical plan will be laid out after extensive communication during the consultation. This involves evaluation of photographs taken of your nose. The rhinoplasty procedure is performed under general anesthesia and typically lasts about 2-3 hours.

What to expect after surgery?

You will be able to go home on the same day of surgery. We will provide you with specific instructions and supplies. Nasal discharge is common during the first couple of days. You will have a drip pad under your nostrils, which may be changed as needed. Your nasal splint will be removed 5-7 days after surgery. Apply crushed ice in an ice bag to the areas immediately around your nose but not directly on it. Keep your head elevated on 3 pillows when sleeping for the first week. Do not blow your nose for the first 3 weeks. For dried blood and crusting within the nostrils, gently clean this using a Q-tip coated with peroxide followed by application of Bacitracin ointment. You may use normal saline nasal spray after the second day to keep you nasal lining moist. If you feel congested, you may use Afrin nasal spray after conferring with Dr. Farris. Do not wear glasses that rest on the bridge of your nose for 4 weeks. Avoid strenuous activity or exercise for 3 weeks. Avoid prolonged sun exposure to your scar and use sunscreen as necessary. Much of the swelling after surgery will be gone after 6 weeks but you may have incremental changes and improvement up to 1 year.

Contact us today to schedule your consultation and discover the difference of Farris Plastic Surgery!

Rhinoplasty before and after photos.

FAQs

• What aspects of my nose can a rhinoplasty improve or correct?
  A rhinoplasty generally can correct the size of the nose, a hump or bump, a broad nasal tip, large nostrils or a crooked appearance.
• Do you have to break my bone during rhinoplasty?
  Not all rhinoplasty procedures require breaking the bone. In certain situations however, it may be indicated. If not performed in those situations, there may be limitations on your results.
• Which rhinoplasty technique is better, open or closed technique?
  Although there is more swelling and a small imperceptible scar under the tip of the nose with the open technique, this method allows full exposure during surgery, which should result in a more predictable outcome. The scar for the closed technique is completely within the nostril. The closed technique does not offer full exposure of the nasal framework or lower cartilages and is best suited for limited and focused issues like reducing a hump.
• Will a rhinoplasty affect my voice?
  A properly performed rhinoplasty should not alter your voice.
• Will a rhinoplasty affect my smile?
  Temporarily, you may have difficulty smiling with your upper lip because of swelling and possible disruption of musculature. That usually resolves after a week.
• What’s the downtime after rhinoplasty?
  There is initial discomfort and pain during the first couple of days that can be controlled with prescription pain medication. Swelling will peak around the third day and most of it will be gone by six weeks. Keep in mind that you will still have incremental improvements in swelling up to one year. You may also have bruising during the first week, especially if you’re bone was broken during surgery. Apply ice packs and keep your head elevated for the first week. Avoid any strenuous activity or exercise for 3 weeks after surgery.
• What is the revision rate after rhinoplasty?
  The national average for revision rhinoplasty is about 5-15%.