Who Needs Rhinoplasty?

Your nose is the center of your face and the focal point of your profile. If it’s out of proportion to your face or otherwise not cosmetically pleasing, you may desire that it be enhanced. Or, if you can’t breathe well through your nose, or if it got broken, it may be medically necessary to fix your nose.

No matter the reason, there’s a procedure that can fix your problem. It’s called rhinoplasty, or a nose job. In this blog, the providers at ENT of New Orleans, with four locations in the Greater New Orleans area, explain some of the issues that can be treated with a rhinoplasty.

Rhinoplasty 101 

Rhinoplasty is one of the most common plastic surgeries in the world. In 2018, more than 200,000 were performed in the United States alone. Those who undergo rhinoplasty can do so for cosmetic reasons, medical reasons, or both.

Cosmetic reasons

Many people prefer smaller, gently sloped noses, which has led millions of people to have their noses surgically reshaped. A nose job can treat many cosmetic issues, such as: 

While rhinoplasty can be used to drastically alter your nose, many people go in for small touch-ups as well. 

Medical reasons

Not all rhinoplasties are for cosmetic purposes, however. Some people undergo the procedure to treat medical issues. For example, a rhinoplasty can repair a broken nose or correct structural issues, such as a deviated septum.

The septum is a section of bone and cartilage that separates one nasal cavity from the other. If the septum is crooked or significantly off-center, this can inhibit breathing. In cases such as these, it may be deemed medically necessary to perform a rhinoplasty to fix the issue.

Our team can let you know if a rhinoplasty would be a cosmetic procedure or if it might be medically necessary. Regardless of your reason for seeking a nose job, it’s important that you choose an experienced surgeon. Your sinuses are small and delicate, and rhinoplasty is considered one of the most complex plastic surgeries available. 

Things to consider before rhinoplasty

If you’re having rhinoplasty for medical purposes, your provider will aim to fix the damage or structural issue to help you breathe well again. If you’re considering rhinoplasty for cosmetic reasons — or if you’re adding cosmetic treatments to a medically necessary procedure — then there are a few things you should keep in mind.

You should have a clear vision about what you want from your surgery. Furthermore, you should have realistic expectations about the outcome. 

Furthermore, you should understand that a cosmetic rhinoplasty is just a way to adjust your appearance. Having a different nose might alter your self-image and give you more confidence, but it will not correct overarching issues in your life.

If you’re struggling with certain issues, such as body dysmorphia or anxiety, you should seek guidance from a mental health professional before committing to any cosmetic surgeries. 

What to expect from rhinoplasty

During your consultation, your provider will explain the surgery and help you visualize your results. Once you’re confident in your decision, the process will move forward.

During your rhinoplasty, your surgeon will gently alter the delicate skin, cartilage, and bone of your nose. This must be done carefully to preserve your sinuses and ensure that you’ll be able to breathe easily after your procedure. 

Once the changes are complete and the incision is closed, bandages will be placed to support your nose. You’ll likely be able to go home the same day of your surgery, but you’ll need to stick to your surgeon’s guidelines and give your face time to heal.

If you have a cosmetic or medical issue with your nose, rhinoplasty may be able to help. To learn more, book an appointment online or over the phone with ENT of New Orleans today.

You Might Also Enjoy...

Which Type of Hearing Aid Is Right for Me?

Hearing aids can help restore some level of hearing if you’ve lost hearing due to aging, sound pollution in your living or work environment, or certain illnesses. Which type should you get?