Rhinoplasty & Nose Reduction Surgery
Conveniently located to serve Seattle, Kirkland, Bellevue, and Redmond
Rhinoplasty
One of the most common plastic surgery procedures, rhinoplasty is performed to reshape, reduce or augment a person’s nose, remove a hump, narrow nostril width, change the angle between the nose and the mouth, or to correct injury, birth defects, or other problems that affect nasal breathing. Results depend on the patient’s nasal bone and cartilage structure, facial shape, skin thickness, and age (teenagers should have had their growth spurt). Insurance may cover rhinoplasty if it is performed for reconstructive or medical reasons, but likely not for cosmetic purposes.
Revision rhinoplasty, also known as secondary rhinoplasty, is necessary to correct an irregularity in a previously operated nose. Revision rhinoplasty generally is more complex, takes longer to perform, and may have longer healing times associated with it.
Rhinoplasty can significantly enhance a person’s confidence, harmonize facial features, and improve the functionality of the nose. Situated in the center of the face, an appropriately shaped and sized nose adds beauty and unity to a person’s overall aesthetic.
Rhinoplasty
- Can alleviate asymmetry, dorsal hump, deviated septum, nasal airflow, and breathing
- Outpatient procedure
- Each procedure is specifically tailored to your needs
- Computer generated morphing used to aid in planning
” Dr. Liebertz is a magical surgeon and repaired my breathing and my face magnificently, I completely trust his face sculpting skills and professional options of my procedures.” -AJ
Am I a Good Candidate for Rhinoplasty?
Healthy individuals whose noses have fully matured are good candidates for rhinoplasty.
Ideal candidates are not satisfied with the aesthetics of their noses. Patients with nasal structural issues that affect breathing can also get rhinoplasty for medical purposes.
The best candidates for rhinoplasty have realistic expectations and goals. Ideal candidates are in good overall health since certain pre-existing conditions can increase the chance of complications. If you have pre-existing conditions, it’s best to discuss these during your consultation.
Patients who smoke may not be good candidates for rhinoplasty surgery. Smokers will need to avoid smoking for several weeks before the procedure. Additionally, smoking will be prohibited during the recovery and healing process, since it can prolong recovery and potentially lead to a number of complications.
Male vs. Female Rhinoplasty
In terms of the techniques utilized, there is no difference between male and female rhinoplasty. The only differences relate to the patient’s aesthetic goals and preferences.
Patients looking for a more traditionally masculine nose tend to prefer a sharper nose with a straight nasal bridge. The nasal tip may be projected further, and the bridge may be widened or elevated.
Patients looking for a more traditionally feminine nose tend to prefer a softer nasal bridge that isn’t too wide or prominent. They want to avoid an overly wide nasal tip. The ideal tip is often upturned slightly, a feature called a supra-tip break.
Most importantly, it’s best to remember that this can vary from patient to patient based on their other facial features and their aesthetic goals.
Your Consultation
During your consultation, you and your surgeon will discuss your goals and expectations for rhinoplasty. Your surgeon will evaluate your medical history, including any medications and supplements you are currently taking. A physical exam will be conducted to fully understand your case.
Once your surgeon determines that rhinoplasty is your best option, they will create a personalized treatment plan to help achieve your goals and enhance the aesthetics and/or functionality of your nose. You will receive specific instructions to help prepare for the rhinoplasty procedure.
Rhinoplasty Procedure
A rhinoplasty at Liebertz Plastic Surgery at Yarrow Bay takes approximately two to four hours and is performed under general anesthesia with a licensed anesthesia provider. The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis, and you go home the same day.
Surgeons use one of two techniques: the incision is either made within the nostrils, thus hiding scars after surgery (endonasal rhinoplasty), or across the columella (the vertical strip of tissue separating the nostrils) in an “open” or “external” procedure, where scars are small and hidden on the underside of the base. In both procedures the skin is lifted off of the underlying structures, the bone and cartilage sculpted, and the skin replaced and stitched closed.
Rhinoplasty Recovery
After surgery, a cast is worn across the bridge of the nose for five days. For a short time after surgery you may experience puffiness, a dull headache, swelling and bruising, bleeding, or stuffiness. Contact lenses can be worn immediately after surgery, but glasses are to be taped to your forehead or propped on your cheeks for up to six weeks. Recovery time ranges from five to seven days.
Strenuous activity, including all “cardio” exercises, is limited to four weeks. Blood thinners such as aspirin, NSAIDs (ibuprofen, Advil, Aleve, Motrin, etc), fish oil, vitamin E, and others are to be avoided for at least two weeks after surgery. Your doctor will give you specific instructions for your individual recovery, and following these instructions can help speed your recovery and reduce the risk of post-operative complications.
Rhinoplasty Results
Rhinoplasties can straighten a crooked nose, reduce a large hump, or even augment a ‘flat’ nose. Sometimes they can also help restore adequate airflow in order to improve nasal breathing and a sense of smell. Discussion with your surgeon regarding explicit expectations is key to achieving a harmonious end result. Initial results are seen immediately upon the removal of the dressing, and will significantly improve as swelling subsides over the two weeks. The nose will continue to become more and more refined over the course of the next three to six months as the healing tissues mature.
Rhinoplasty Risks
Though rare, post-operative complications from any surgical procedure are possible. They may include infection, bleeding, blood clots, and poor healing (including scarring), all of which may require further surgery.
Risks specific to nasal surgery also include asymmetry, numbness or paresthesias (tingling or pins-and-needles feeling), change or loss of sense of smell, change or worsening of nasal airflow, and septal perforation.
How Much Does this Procedure Cost?
The type of rhinoplasty techniques used in the treatment plan may affect the cost of the procedure. Details such as facility fees and the anesthesia used to impact the overall price of the rhinoplasty procedure. Consult with your healthcare provider to see if your health insurance will cover the cost of the rhinoplasty procedure. Coverage may be available for functional rhinoplasty.
Schedule Your Consultation
If you are considering rhinoplasty in Bellevue, your next step will be to learn more about the procedure before making a decision. We at Liebertz Plastic Surgery at Yarrow Bay will provide information and guide patients during a consultation. Contact us to set up your appointment!
