| Dr. David E. Halpern is a plastic surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Here the doctor has answered some common questions that Bizymoms visitors have about Rhinoplasty.
Q. What type of anesthesia is required for rhinoplasty?
A. Anesthesia for rhinoplasty usually is deep twilight or general anesthesia. This depends on what the surgeon has planned. For instance, if osteotomies are planned then it is safer to have general anesthesia because they can protect the airway from any aspiration of fluid which is common during the procedure. However, if a tip or dorsal reduction only need to be done then twilight usually is sufficient. The most important thing about any type of anesthesia is that it maintains perfusion, oxygenation while providing pain relief. I always like to have my colleagues at the head of the bed watching every heartbeat, vitals, and O2 saturation so I can safely concentrate on what I have to do. I believe in safe not sorry themes.
Q. What are open and closed rhinoplasty?
A. Open rhinoplasty is when you connect the intranasal incisions with a small columellar incision and then lift the nasal skin off the cartilage framework. More of a dissection but gives the surgeon unprecendented visualization and access to nasal structures. Direct access and surgical manipulation are then performed and the areas then closed. Typically more swelling of the tip for a little longer time is typical. Closed rhinoplasty involves internal incisions of the nose to access certain areas reliably. Usually more experienced nasal surgeons use these types of approaches to accomplish specific areas. Either technique in the hands of an experienced surgeon can accomplish the planned goals.
Q. Are x-rays taken before undergoing rhinoplasty?
A. Usually no x-rays are required. An exam is pretty detailed. Unless there are specific sinus issues or previous trauma then a CT scan or MRI may be helpful.
Q. How can we contact Dr. Halpern if we have further questions?
A. Patients can contact the office at 813-871-5000 or by sending an email to tbps@verizon.net. You can read more about me by visiting our web page at www.davidhalpernmd.com |
