Rhinoplasty is a surgery that alters the shape of the nose in appearance, function or both. The most common reasons a rhinoplasty is performed include: to repair deformities from an injury, improve breathing, improve appearance of the nose, or to correct nasal abnormalities going back to birth.
Rhinoplasty is among the most common facial plastic surgery procedures performed. It can be done to improve the appearance of the nose, as well as to improve breathing in a blocked or broken nose. Additionally, rhinoplasty can decrease the size of the nose and/or refine the shape of the tip or the nasal bridge. For instance, rhinoplasty can remove a nasal “hump” or bump, narrow a wide nasal tip, or lift a drooping tip. Large nostrils can be narrowed, crookedness straightened, and fractures – even old fractures – repaired.
The “medical” portion of these procedures is often covered by insurance.
Before undergoing a rhinoplasty, a patient will have an appointment with Dr. Greene for a thorough nasal evaluation, to discuss important factors that determine whether the surgery is likely to be beneficial. During this initial appointment, Dr. Greene discusses with the patient their individual medical history, the reasons for wanting rhinoplasty, the expectations and likely outcome of the surgery, and a thorough physical examination to determine the best course of action for the surgery.
Rhinoplasty is “same day surgery”, performed under anesthesia, at the outpatient surgery center. You will go home the same day; NO hospitalization is required. The surgery is done through an incision made inside the nostrils. In some cases, a tiny incision is also made in an area between the nostrils. The modifications to the structure of the nose are customized and different for every person, depending on the changes each person wants, and the nasal corrections and repairs that they need. After the surgery is performed, a splint will be placed on the outside of the nose to help maintain the new shape of the bone.
After your procedure is completed, a soft splint with breathing tubes may be placed inside your nose. Dr. Greene avoids packing in nearly every case. A small splint placed on the outside of your nose will support and protect the new structures during initial healing. You will be given specific instructions to follow during your recovery from rhinoplasty, including how to care for the surgical site, medications to apply or take orally to aid healing and reduce the potential for infection, as well as complete postoperative instructions, and follow-up appointments Dr. Greene.
This is for informational purposes only. For medical advice or diagnosis, consult a professional.