RHINOPLASTY

Rhinoplasty is the surgical treatment to improve the shape, size, and overall appearance of the nose. Its goal is to achieve a natural-looking nose that shows balance with the rest of the face.

Recommended for patients with congenital issues (present from birth) that alter their aesthetic appearance, deformities caused by trauma, and functional alterations.

We also consider patients who, without having deformities or functional alterations, request changes to the shape or size of their nose.

Rhinoplasty can correct birth defects or breathing problems. For this reason, it requires very comprehensive anatomical, physiological, and technical knowledge. Aesthetic rhinoplasty modifies the shape and size of the nose in pursuit of better facial aesthetics. Functional rhinoplasty corrects alterations or malformations, such as septal deviations or turbinate hypertrophy that hinder breathing. Reconstructive rhinoplasty is used in cases of congenital deformities, accidents, fractures, burns, and nasal tumors. Tissues near the nose are used to apply grafts or flaps.

It is a surgical procedure that can be performed on men and women of any age. However, I recommend waiting until age 13 or 14, when facial development has been completed.

Surgical time is approximately 1 to 2 hours.

Surgical Technique

This depends not only on the surgeon's preferences but also on the desired outcome. It can be performed with incisions inside the nose (Closed Rhinoplasty) or outside it (Open Rhinoplasty).

I most frequently use the closed technique.

Through these small incisions, we can sculpt nasal cartilage and bones to achieve changes in shape, size, and overall appearance.

My goals frequently include reducing or increasing size, changing the shape of the tip and nasal dorsum, modifying the angles between the nose and upper lip and between the nose and the forehead, reducing the diameter or opening of the nostrils, and as a fundamental and priority principle, correcting respiratory problems.

No aesthetic result is successful without a properly functioning nose. The procedure can be combined with chin surgery (mentoplasty) to improve facial proportions and contour.

General anesthesia is ideal in most cases.

Hospitalization is only required in special cases.

Pre-Surgical Examinations

A complete cardiopulmonary evaluation along with basic blood chemistry tests are essential. Complete blood count, coagulation tests, and kidney function tests.

Optimal physical and psychological conditions are essential for the success of this surgery.

Post-Operative Care

Ice during the first 24 to 48 hours, then continue with local heat for several days. These recommendations reduce the duration and severity of inflammation.

Analgesics and anti-inflammatory medications for 5 to 7 days.

Recovery

Work incapacity of 1 to 7 days.

Sports activities restricted for 2 to 4 weeks.

Complications

It is important that you be informed of the risks and benefits.

These risks can be reduced by avoiding certain medications or substances, stopping smoking, and following post-surgical recommendations.

We should consider these as potential complications:

1. Hematomas.
2. Bleeding.
3. Infections.
4. Displacement or rejection of cartilaginous grafts.
5. Rejection of suture materials.
6. Skin contractions and poor scarring.

There are other less frequent complications related only to special cases, which we will discuss during your consultation.