Patients travel from as far away as Austraila, Europe, and Brazil to undergo rhinoplasty at Dr Hochstein’s plastic surgery practice in Miami, Florida. Commonly called “nose surgery” or a “nose job,” rhinoplasty can effectively improve the appearance of an individual’s nose by creating better proportion and overall facial harmony in relation to the beauty of the lips and eyes. This generally leads to a higher level of self-confidence for the patient.
Nose surgery may be performed to change the size and/or shape of the nose for cosmetic and reconstructive reasons. With this procedure, Dr. Hochstein can change various nasal features, such as:
- The size of the nose and how it relates to other facial features
- The profile of the nose, removing any visible humps or depressions that exist on the bridge
- The nasal tip, improving a large or bulbous, drooping, or excessively upturned shape
- An asymmetrical appearance
In addition to improving the aesthetics of the nose, rhinoplasty can correct breathing problems that may be caused by a structural abnormality, such as straightening out a deviated septum that may be causing functional obstructions. Dr. Hochstein can also improve birth defects that have affected the appearance of a person’s nose.
The Consultation
It is important that you are open and honest regarding your cosmetic goals, health history, and lifestyle during your consultation; therefore, the initial visit with Dr. Hochstein is crucial to the success and safety of your procedure. During this time, he will take photographs for your medical records, discuss the various factors associated with rhinoplasty (i.e., anesthesia, recovery, potential risks and complications), and examine your face. Depending on your aesthetic goals, Dr. Hochstein may recommend another facial procedure to provide greater facial harmony, such as chin augmentation.
During your initial consultation with Dr. Hochstein, be sure to let him know if you’ve had a previous nose job or sustained a nasal injury (even if this occurred several years ago). In addition, you will also need to discuss your medical history, such as if you have allergies, suffer from breathing complications, take certain medications, vitamins, and/or recreational drugs.
Ideal Candidates
Rhinoplasty is a delicate, highly individualized procedure that can provide a dramatic improvement. It is best for those who want to build upon their natural beauty and enhance their looks versus seeking perfection. Ideal rhinoplasty candidates:
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Are unhappy with the size and/or shape of their nose |
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Have completed facial growth (girls are usually around 14 or 15 years old, a bit later for boys) and are socially and emotionally adjusted |
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Do not smoke |
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Are physically healthy |
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Have realistic goals and expectations |
The Surgery: “Closed” and “Open” Rhinoplasty
The two rhinoplasty techniques are: “closed” and “open.” Dr. Hochstein prefers the closed rhinoplasty method, because the incision is not visible after surgery; the incision is made on the inside of the nose. Open rhinoplasty, on the other hand, entails a small incision made on the outside of the nose, between the nostrils, and in some cases on the inside of the nose as well. Dr. Hochstein will discuss which method will provide you with the best results during the consultation.
Upon completion, a splint will be applied to the patient’s nose in order to help support and maintain its new shape. Depending on the particular rhinoplasty procedure, nasal packs or soft plastic splints may be placed in your nostrils; this is done to stabilize the septum (the dividing wall between the air passages).
Potential Risks and Complications
Every plastic surgery procedure involves the possibility of risks and complications, including rhinoplasty. Fortunately complications are infrequent when performed in the care of a qualified plastic surgeon, such as Dr. Hochstein. Nevertheless, there is always a possibility of complications, including infection, nosebleed, and a reaction to the anesthesia. Scarring is minimal to non-existent, depending on the technique used (“closed” or “open”).
In about 1 case out of 10, a corrective procedure may need to be performed. Such cases are unpredictable, and a second procedure is usually minor.
Recovery
After surgery, particularly during the first 24 hours, your face will feel puffy, your nose may ache, and you may anticipate having a dull headache. It is common for small burst blood vessels to appear as tiny red spots on the skin’s surface after surgery. These are usually minor, but may be permanent. Any discomfort can be controlled with prescribed pain medication. Except for going to the bathroom, you should plan on staying in bed with your head elevated the first day after surgery.
It is common for a little bleeding to occur during the first few days following rhinoplasty, and you may feel some stuffiness for several weeks. Dr. Hochstein will probably ask you to avoid blowing your nose for a week or so, while the tissues heal. Any nasal packing will be removed after a few days, providing greater comfort. In about one to two weeks, all dressings, splints, and stitches should be removed.
You will need to sleep with your head elevated during the first week of recovery in order to help minimize swelling. The swelling and bruising around your eyes will reach its peak in about 2 to 3 days; however, most of the swelling and bruising should disappear in about 2 weeks. Subtle swelling typically remains for several months. To feel better and help reduce swelling, be sure to apply cold compresses as need be.
Most rhinoplasty patients are up and about within 2 days, and should be able to return to school or sedentary work a week or so following surgery. Avoid strenuous activity that increases your blood pressure (i.e., jogging, swimming, bending, sexual relations) for about 2 to 3 weeks. You will also need to avoid hitting or rubbing your nose, or getting it sunburned, for 8 weeks. Be gentle when washing your face and hair, as well as when using cosmetics. Contacts can be worn right away, but refrain from wearing glasses until your nose is completely healed.
Results
Although you may continue to see small changes develop between the first 3 months to 2 years, the final outcome will depend on multiple factors, which include your age, skin type, and ability to heal. In general, healing from rhinoplasty is a slow and gradual process, and the final results of rhinoplasty may not be apparent for a year or more. However, day by day, your nose will begin to look better and your spirits will improve. Within a week or two, you’ll no longer look as if you’ve just undergone surgery.
