Structural Rhinoplasty

Are you a good candidate?

Rhinoplasty can be performed with an open (incision on the columella and inside the nose) or closed approach (inside the nose), depending on what is to be done. Bony and cartilaginous humps are removed and rasped, bulky lower cartilages are trimmed and adjusted into a more ideal position.

Grafts are usually taken from your own septal cartilage (inside the nose), the ear or a rib (if no cartilage is available because of prior surgery), and they are used to stabilize all the modified nasal elements.

During the consultation, the face is assessed as a whole and several parameters measured. We figure out what can and cannot be treated by taking pictures and using Photoshop morphing (not precise: it only gives you an idea).

Depending on the cause, variable breathing issues are not resolved with a rhinoplasty and require further investigations.

Usual contraindications are patients on blood thinners, uncontrolled chronic diseases, and patients who have vague and unrealistic demands (which are refused, of course).

Bone, Upper lateral cartilages and Lower lateral cartilages are treated separately

Under local anesthesia + sedation

  • Incisions are on the columella and inside the nose (open approach) or just inside the nose (closed approach)

  • Suture with fine sutures inside and under nose

  • Mild pain with medication

  • Cast left in place for a week. No need for nasal mesh.

  • Daily intranasal swab and anti-edema pray

  • Breathing usually reduced the first week

  • Moderate bruising that usually resolve in 1 week

  • Swelling for up to 3 months (final result is between 6 and 12 months)

  • 1st Follow-up: 7 days to remove sutures and cast

  • 2nd Follow-up: 6 months (scar barely visible at this stage)

  • 3rd Follow-up: 12 months (assess final shape)