Surgery of the nose (rhinoplasty) is an operation frequently performed by plastic surgeons. This surgical procedure can produce changes in the appearance, structure, and function of the nose. Rhinoplasty can reduce or increase the size of the nose, change the shape of the tip, narrow the width of the nostrils, or change the angle between the nose and the upper lip. This operation can help correct birth defects, nasal injuries, and help relieve some breathing problems.
There is not a universal type of rhinoplasty surgery that will meet the needs of every patient. Rhinoplasty surgery is customized for each patient, depending on his or her needs. Incisions may be made within the nose or concealed in inconspicuous locations of the nose in the open rhinoplasty procedure. In some situations, cartilage grafts, taken from within the nose or from other areas of the body may be recommended in order to help reshape the structure of the nose. Internal nasal surgery to improve nasal breathing can be performed at the time of the rhinoplasty.
The best candidates for this type of surgery are individuals who are looking for improvement, not perfection, in the appearance of their nose. In addition to realistic expectations, good health and psychological stability are important qualities for a patient considering rhinoplasty surgery. Rhinoplasty can be performed in conjunction with other surgeries.
Dr. Massiha has a special interest in Rhinoplasty surgery. He has innovated several techniques to improve the results of the procedure. He has published many of these techniques in indexed medical journals. He has presented his technique at many medical meetings and taught courses this procedure locally and abroad. He is an active member of The Rhinoplasty Society which is an exclusive group of surgeons specializing in nose surgery. Members must be invited to join based on their notoriety in the area of nose surgery. Dr. Massiha attends these annual meeting where he and his peers share their latest innovations and experiences in the area of nasal surgery.
Rhinoplasty surgery usually takes 1-3 hours depending on the extensiveness of the surgery. Rhinoplasty is usually performed under general anesthesia. The nose will be packed for 5 to seven days and an external splint and tape is placed on the nose after to surgery to maintain shape and prevent injury. This should be worn for approximately two weeks. Taping may be recommended at bedtime to reduce swelling. Nose surgery patients rarely complain of discomfort. They do complain of not being able to breathe through their nose, much like a head cold. Mild pain medications may be prescribed as needed; however, acetaminophen is often sufficient. The procedure is an outpatient surgery. The patient can go home a few hours after surgery. Like all cosmetic surgery, rhinoplasty surgery has risks. These risks should be considered carefully and discussed with your doctor prior to undergoing surgery.
