FACE
Precision Rhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty is a procedure designed to alter the shape of the nose and, if necessary, to improve nasal airway function and breathing. The goal is to produce a nose that is balanced in appearance with the rest of the face. Patients may seek rhinoplasty because of an unfavorable nasal appearance that appears as the patient’s face grows or related to post-traumatic deformities. Revision rhinoplasty surgery can also be performed to refine a previously performed rhinoplasty.
During the initial consultation at Harris Plastic Surgery Dr. Harris will listen and gain understanding of patient expectations, educate patients about their options, and customize the rhinoplasty treatment plan for each patient based on detailed internal and external nasal examination and analysis. 3D computer imaging can be done to enhance communication of patient’s goals and expectations as well as to suggest what changes in nasal shape or appearance might be possible. Precision rhinoplasty refers to the precise preoperative analysis and planning, and the precise intraoperative maneuvers performed to achieve the patient’s goals.
Primary and revision rhinoplasty is typically performed under general anesthesia with an open approach with a small incision hidden at the base of the nose continuous with internal nasal incisions. Through this surgical approach changes to the nasal bones and cartilage can be performed to alter the profile and nasal tip appearance, and correct any nasal deviation resulting from deviations of the nasal septum.
Frequently cartilage grafts are harvested from the nasal septum and used to maintain tip shape and projection and to improve nasal airflow. In revision cases, where previous septal cartilage harvest may have been done, MTF Biologics rib cartilage grafts can be used as off-the-shelf alternatives to harvesting the patient’s own rib cartilage.
The surgical procedure can be performed in 2–4 hours and the patient will typically have a nasal splint placed at surgery. The splint is removed after a week in the office. The new nasal appearance should be noticeable immediately, with expectation for continued refinement in the nasal appearance for up to a year.