Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty techniques must vary depending on the desires of the patient and the operative plan. There are two basic approaches to rhinoplasty: open and closed. For reducing the hump on the top of the nose and improving a person’s profile, the closed technique works very well. This involves incisions inside the nose only and may or may not involve breaking the nasal bones to reset their position. If there are to be extensive changes to the tip of the nose (usually to change a boxy tip), then the open rhinoplasty approach is often used. This involves the incisions inside the nose as well as a small incision across the columella (the thin strip of skin extending from the upper lip to the tip of the nose).

Nasal implants or cartilage grafting may be necessary as well. Often a goal of rhinoplasty surgery is to improve airflow and may require additional procedures. Swelling in the nose can persist for quite some time. If extensive work is done on the tip, the final results may not be visible for a year after surgery, although much of the swelling may be resolved within a few weeks. Recovery from rhinoplasty is about 1 week, although bruising from resetting the nasal bones can persist for 2 or 3 weeks.

Faqs on Rhinoplasty

Does Dr. Houser perform many rhinoplasty surgeries?

Yes, rhinoplasty is a common procedure for Dr. Houser. He is experienced and skilled in the latest facial surgery techniques. Dr. Houser is also active in resident education in Columbus,Ohio, both at Ohio State University, in the plastic surgery program, as well as in the general surgery program at Mount Carmel Medical Center in Columbus, Ohio.

I have wanted to get my nose fixed for years but I’ve heard that rhinoplasty is quite painful. Is this true?

Nasal surgery has come a long way over the years and is generally not very painful. Most patients will report some pressure sensation after surgery, but not a lot of pain. If extensive work is done to improve airflow, there may be splints on the inside of the nose that add to the pressure, but these are removed at the first postoperative visit.

I am considering rhinoplasty but I only want to make a small change to the appearance of my nose and I don’t want everyone to know that I’ve had a nose job. Is this possible?

Absolutely! Dr. Houser listens carefully to each patient ensuring that he understands their desired results. Many patients find that after they have been at home during their recovery period, upon returning to work co-workers notice a difference, but are unsure about what change has been made.

How long is the recovery from rhinoplasty?

The recovery period from rhinoplasty is usually about one week. However, you may still have some bruising for two to three weeks. Dr. Houser will discuss your expected recovery with you during your consultation and your pre-op visit.

What should I expect during my consultation for rhinoplasty? Do I need to prepare anything in advance of the consultation?

During your consultation, Dr. Houser will talk with you (and listen to you) to find out what results you are wanting from your rhinoplasty surgery. Dr. Houser will also examine and take measurements of your face and nose. A medical history will be taken, so please bring a list of any medications that you regularly take as well as any allergies to medications.

Will I need to stay overnight in a hospital to have rhinoplasty?

Dr. Houser performs most rhinoplasty surgeries in our (AAAASF) fully accredited surgical suite on an outpatient basis. Accreditation by the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgical Facilities is only awarded to surgical facilities which maintain the highest level of patient care, safety, cleanliness and emergency response procedures. In addition, we are located adjacent to, and only steps away from, Mt. Carmel / St. Ann’s Hospital.

How much will my rhinoplasty cost?

Cost varies from patient to patient depending on length and difficulty of the planned surgery. Dr. Houser discusses the cost of each procedure after consulting with and examining each patient, as no two patients and surgeries are just alike.

For patients who suffer from certain breathing problems due to nasal abnormalities, insurance coverage may reduce out-of-pocket expenses.

It is important to consider factors other than cost when searching for a plastic surgeon to perform your rhinoplasty. Surgical techniques and experience vary greatly from doctor to doctor. When searching for a doctor to perform your rhinoplasty, you should look for a plastic surgeon who is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (not all surgeons performing plastic surgery in Ohio are) and a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.

Click here to learn more about the importance of board certification when choosing your plastic surgeon.

I don’t live in the Columbus, Ohio area. Can Dr. Houser perform my rhinoplasty? Is there a post surgical care facility for outpatient surgeries in Columbus?

Dr. Houser has many patients who travel from outside the Columbus, Ohio area to have rhinoplasty as well as other plastic surgery procedures. Because of this, we have partnered with a post-surgical care facility located in a luxury hotel in downtown Columbus. The professionals at Cosmetic Surgery Recovery Suites / Columbus, Ohio provide private and attentive care following surgical procedures. Other options are available as well to meet individual needs.

How can I obtain more information on rhinoplasty?

Dr. Houser would be happy to meet with you and answer your questions at our Westerville/ Columbus, Ohio office. Please call to schedule a private consultation. The American Society of Plastic Surgery website also provides helpful information on rhinoplasty.

I have noticed that not all surgeons performing rhinoplasty in Ohio are board certified. Why should I choose a plastic surgeon who is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery (ASPS)? Is this important?

An ASPS member surgeon has fulfilled the following requirements:

• Has at least five years of surgical training and a minimum of two years of plastic surgery training.
• Is board-certified by The American Board of Plastic Surgery or The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.
• Is trained and experienced in all plastic surgery procedures, including breast, body, face and reconstruction.
• Is peer-reviewed for safety and ethical standards prior to attaining the honor of active membership.
• Only operates in accredited facilities.

Why is it important to choose a plastic surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery?

Many physicians who perform cosmetic procedures will claim board certification, but it is important to clarify which board. The American Board of Plastic Surgery is a part of the American Board of Medical Specialties and has been in existence since 1937. Certification by this board signifies that the surgeon has completed an approved plastic surgery residency, has passed a comprehensive written examination, and has passed an oral examination. Following this, he or she is then required to maintain certification through case submissions, continuing medical education and written examinations. This rigorous process ensures that those who identify themselves as a diplomat of the American Board of Plastic Surgery are held to the highest standards of patient safety, patient satisfaction and ethical behavior.