| Dr. Randy J. Buckspan is a plastic surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Here the doctor has answered some common questions Bizymoms visitors have about Rhinoplasty.
Q. What is rhinoplasty?
A. A rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure to alter the shape and structure of the nose. Changes may be requested due to trauma or appearance concerns, as well as breathing problems.
Q. What are the benefits of rhinoplasty?
A. A rhinoplasty can improve breathing, restore the nose to a pre-injury appearance, or change an unacceptable appearance to match the face and self-image.
Q. What are the risks associated with rhinoplasty?
A. If done by an experienced surgeon, the main risk is that the result does not match the pre-operative expectations. The underlying bone and cartilage structure, prior trauma or surgery, skin type, and healing ability all play an uncontrollable role in effecting the final appearance.
Q. What does a rhinoplasty procedure involve?
A. Under anesthesia, small incisions are made inside and under the nose and the excess bone and cartilage is reduced or repositioned. Often, stitches are placed inside to shape or hold portions together or additional bone or cartilage is added to support the nose and reshape the tip. The wide bridge and nostrils can also be narrowed. All dimensions can be increased or decreased, as needed. Most stitches dissolve and a small plastic splint is worn over the bridge for a week.
Q. How long does it take to recover from rhinoplasty?
A. A rhinoplasty procedure is done as an outpatient. For a few days, it is recommended to sit upright and apply ice over the bridge to reduce swelling and bruising. Once the splint is removed, makeup can be used to cover any residual bruising. Strenuous activity should be avoided for several weeks to reduce the risk of a nose bleed, and contact sports need to be avoided for several months.
Q. How long can one expect the results to last?
A. Although your face will continue to change with age, the results of a rhinoplasty will last a lifetime.
Q. How does one locate an experienced surgeon in my area?
A. Contact your surgeon’s office and be sure he is Board Certified by an ABMS Board, has hospital privileges for the procedure, and has experience doing the procedure. Be sure the facility is fully accredited. At your consultation, look at pre- and post-operative photos and be sure you like what you see. Choose a surgeon who listens to what you are concerned about, answers all your questions, and has a plan just for you.
Q. How can we contact Dr. Buckspan if we have further questions?
A. I can be reached at my office, Personique, at 512-459-6800 or on the web at www.personique.com |
