Rhinoplasty- Cosmetic and Secondary
Surgery whose purpose is the reshaping of the external nose is known as "rhinoplasty." It is performed to produce cosmetic change, and will only incidentally affect breathing function. At times, rhinoplasty will be combined with surgery on the nasal septum if deformities of this structure produce breathing difficulties for the patient. In these cases, the surgery can be considered both cosmetic and functional.
Rhinoplasty is usually performed through incisions within the nostrils, and leaves no externally visible scarring. For some patients, however, so-called "open" rhinoplasty will yield the best results. This technique involves the use of a small external incision in the skin separating the nostrils (called the "columella,") to unite the intranasal incisions. With this approach, the surgeon may visualize the nasal tip and lower skeleton directly and effect direct repair of complex problems.
Learn About the History of Rhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty is one of the most artistic and technically precise operations in plastic surgery. It demands that the doctor carefully plan and execute fine maneuvers specific to the needs of the patient and avoid the use of a one-technique fits all, "nosejob." The results of surgery cannot be fully known until the body has fully dealt with swelling and revealed each small, but important refinement in shape. This process may take up to two years.
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