Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty, also known as a nose job, is more than a simple cosmetic procedure – it’s a complex surgery that requires the services of a highly skilled plastic surgeon. At Facial Plastic Surgery of Central Texas, individuals can receive a rhinoplasty from a surgeon who specializes in procedures from the collarbone up: Dr. Charles Guy. Located in Waco, Facial Plastic Surgery of Central Texas makes it easier for those throughout the area to obtain exceptional plastic surgery services without needing to travel to Austin or Dallas.

Rhinoplasty, more commonly known as a nose job, is a procedure that alters the shape or function of the nose. Different from other cosmetic procedures, rhinoplasty is not performed to highlight an area of the nose, but rather to subtly adjust the face without making it apparent that work was done.

Surgeons must approach rhinoplasty with the utmost precision due to the nose’s unique structure. At the top of the nose is bone, and at the bottom is cartilage. Depending on the patient’s specific needs and wishes, rhinoplasty can modify the bone, cartilage, skin, or every aspect of the nose. While the changes this procedure makes can be small, they can have a significant impact on the area.

Dr. Guy recognizes the subjective nature of plastic surgery of the nose. What people in one country deem a beautiful nose is not necessarily the same for all cultures. These distinctions may even exist within different regions of the United States.

Dr. Guy consults with each patient to ensure he thoroughly understands their concerns and expectations. From there, he works collaboratively with the patient, and is able to show potential results using 3D Vectra software to ensure best plan of action. He strives to help people achieve an appealing aesthetic while maintaining proper function.

Before rhinoplasty surgery, Dr. Guy will conduct a physical examination to gauge how certain features, such as skin thickness, may impact the results of the procedure. He may also take photographs that can be used to show potential results and to aid in his technique.

Rhinoplasty procedures are conducted in the operating room (OR). Patients can expect the following on the day of the surgery:

• Guy often follows an open approach that entails making a small incision on the skin between the nostrils. While the cut is often unnoticeable, it still requires sutures. These sutures are removed a week after the procedure.
• A cast-like object called a splint is inserted on the outer nose to keep the shape of the nose and manage the swelling in the initial post-operative period. Patients return to the office seven days after the surgery to have it removed.
• When the outer splint and tape are taken away, patients will experience a slight increase swelling.
  • Approximately 60% to 80% of the swelling will dissipate within two weeks.
  • About 90% to 95% of the swelling will disappear in two months.
• Minor side effects may persist for a year, with various durations.
  • Swelling around the eyes may fade sooner.
  • Swelling in the nose when exercising or bending over may continue for months.
  • Numbness of the nose, particularly near the tip, may linger for months before the patient regains full sensation.
• If part of the procedure involves reshaping bones, patients may encounter bruising under the eyes. This bruising usually resolves within two weeks and may change color as it heals.
• Patients will also notice nasal congestion brought on by splints (large pieces of plastic in the nose) from either having a concurrent septoplasty or harvesting grafts from the septum.
  • Nasal congestion tends to improve significantly after the splints are removed during the post-operative appointment one week after the procedure.

The nose may feel different after rhinoplasty surgery. Patients may detect stiffness or small bumps felt deep in the skin. They should not be surprised if it takes time to get accustomed to the way their nose now feels.

Dr. Guy will prescribe the patient an antibiotic and medications for relieving pain. While most people who undergo rhinoplasty surgery take a week to 10 days off work, this is entirely optional.

Although people can seek rhinoplasty services purely to enhance their appearance, this is not the only reason for getting a nose job. Other purposes for this surgery include the following:

• Fixing a birth defect
• Repairing a broken or fractured nose
• Improving breathing ability following a traumatic injury or intensive cancer treatment
• Opening obstructed nasal passages stemming from a deviated or damaged septum

Patients interested in receiving rhinoplasty from a surgeon they can rely on should turn to Facial Plastic Surgery of Central Texas. Dr. Guy is a board-certified plastic surgeon with a longstanding reputation throughout central Texas for treating patients like family, as well as educating them on different procedures and their options. He is joined by a highly dedicated plastic surgery team that shares his passion for patient-centered care.

For outstanding nasal plastic surgery, trust Dr. Guy and his team. Contact us for more information about rhinoplasty or request a consultation today.