Ten Little-Known Facts About Rhinoplasty

Since rhinoplasty, commonly known as nose surgery, is frequently performed at Cosmetic Surgery & Laser Centers of El Paso, Dr. Jabor and Dr. Reynolds get many questions about the procedure. Some patients are surprised to learn that revision surgery is common, final results may take months to appear, rhinoplasty may be covered by insurance, and many other little-known facts that are listed below in detail.

1. Revision Rhinoplasty Is Very Common

Since rhinoplasty is one of the most complex and individualized cosmetic procedures, revision surgery is very common. The results depend heavily on not only the surgeon’s steady hand but also on the nose’s ability to heal, which to a great extent, is an unpredictable factor.

2. Final Results May Take up to a Year to Show

Because of the unique structure and tissues of the nose, swelling takes a long time to subside. The initial noticeable swelling after surgery may last up to three weeks, but some degree of swelling can last up to a full year. It is strongly recommended that patients consider revision surgery only when results are complete.

3. Closed Rhinoplasty Leaves No Scars

A closed rhinoplasty is performed endoscopically, which means tiny tools are used to view the procedure from the inside of the nose. The endoscope and tools are inserted through incisions within the nostrils during a closed rhinoplasty so that no incisions, and therefore no scars, are left on the outside of the nose.

4. Open Rhinoplasty Is Sometimes the Better Option

Although a scarless surgery sounds like the more desirable option, an open rhinoplasty that involves one small incision is sometimes better. An open rhinoplasty allows the surgeon to pull back the skin to allow for better viewing and manipulation of the nasal structures. While recovery may be a little longer than with closed rhinoplasty, the small open rhinoplasty scar will be completely unnoticeable beneath the nose across the columella.

5. You Cannot Get a Mirror Image of Someone Else’s Nose

Many patients wish to have a nose that looks exactly like a celebrity’s or another person’s nose. While it is certainly possible to get close to that result, another person’s nose cannot be perfectly duplicated. Your nose is completely unique, from your skin type and thickness to its ability to heal. The outcome of your rhinoplasty should create an improved look that is completely unique to you.

6. In Most Cases, Rhinoplasty Should Not Be Performed on Children

It is recommended that rhinoplasty and septoplasty be performed only after the nose reaches full growth. For girls, the nose has reached full growth by age 15; for boys, this usually occurs by age 17. However, every case is considered individually.

7. Facial Fillers Can Temporarily Improve the Appearance of Your Nose

Patients who may be timid about nose surgery can consider injectable fillers to enhance their nose. Fillers cannot be used to correct every concern, but they can temporarily improve a flat nose, a bump on the bridge, and a drooping tip. The procedure requires no recovery time and takes minutes to perform, with results lasting about six months.

8. Your Nose Never Stops “Growing”

Over time, the soft tissue and muscles in the nose relax, and the loss of elasticity and collagen causes the nose to appear to “grow.” In reality, the nose is changing shape because of these structural changes that occur due to the natural aging process.

9. Rhinoplasty Is One of the Most Popular Procedures

Rhinoplasty is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures, second only to breast augmentation. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, close to 220,000 rhinoplasties were performed in 2015 alone.

10. Rhinoplasty May Be Covered by Insurance

Rhinoplasty may be covered by insurance if the shape or structure of your nose is causing difficulty breathing or other problems. Cosmetic rhinoplasty is not typically covered by insurance.

To schedule your consultation for rhinoplasty with Dr. Jabor or Dr. Reynolds, call our Westside office at (915) 543-5600 or our Eastside office at (915) 855-7800 today. For your convenience, you can also fill out our online contact form.


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