Types of Rhinoplasty (Nose surgery) Procedures

Rhinoplasty plastic surgery can address physiological conditions that can affect an individual’s ability to breathe properly. Furthermore, it can improve the nose shape for a more aesthetic appearance. Various types of rhinoplasty are available to address the unique aesthetic requirements of different patients.

Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Suzanne Quardt (Dr. Q) provides rhinoplasty to patients in Palm Springs, Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage, and surrounding communities.

 

Functional Rhinoplasty Procedures

Rhinoplasty surgery can be performed through an “open” or “closed” technique.  In case of an open nose reshaping procedure, the surgeon will place incisions outside the nose. On the other hand, in a closed rhinoplasty procedure, they will place the incisions inside the nose.

Surgeons use the closed technique wherever possible to prevent any visible scarring. But sometimes the patient may need open rhinoplasty if they have severe damage or if the treatment site is located high within the nasal cavity.

A skilled and experienced cosmetic surgeon will place the incision in an open nose surgery such that any future scarring is minimally visible.

 

Ethnic Rhinoplasty

Each race has some aesthetic attributes that are specific to them. However, not every member of that particular race shares these physical characteristics. But those that do sometimes want to undergo cosmetic surgery to modify these physical characteristics.

Rhinoplasty is a popular procedure for patients whose ethnic characteristics include a broad nose. Many patients from Asian and African heritage consider plastic surgery to reduce their nose width from one nostril to the other.

It is important that the surgeon customizes their approach to suit the unique anatomic attributes of the ethnic nose. The surgeon should not change the nose to the degree that dramatically impacts the appearance of the patient.

 

Correcting the Radix

The radix is the upper bony portion of the nose. The radix and cartilage beneath it may be significant causing a bump. If the radix is shallow, it can cause a depression and a bump. The surgeon can reduce the size of the radix by carefully shaving away tiny pieces.

The surgeon may use the patient’s own cartilage sourced from another nasal site to create volume in a depressed area. They can create a straighter slope by augmenting the site right above the radix.

 

Straightening a Crooked Nose

If the patient’s nose is shifted to one side or slightly crooked, a plastic surgeon can straighten it by eliminating cartilage and bone, or by physically moving tissue. The surgeon may also use a splint to hold the nose in position during the recovery period, similar to a fractured nose after functional rhinoplasty.

 

Tip Rotation and Reduction

If the nose lacks definition or is overly defined, it may not have a proper rotation. Rotation is the upward or downward turn of the nose tip. The surgeon will pay close attention to the nose base when adjusting the nasal tip by reshaping cartilage as it affects the rotation and tension.

 

Projection Adjustment

To reduce the nasal projection, a surgeon may have to trim a portion of the cartilage at the nasal tip. If the projection needs to be increased, the surgeon may divide and realign the cartilage.

Subsequently, they will push it forward and suture it into a desirable position. The nose surgeon may need to use a cartilage graft to augment a nasal tip that does not have sufficient cartilage.

Cosmetic surgeon Dr. Q receives patients from Palm Springs, Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage, and nearby areas for rhinoplasty.
To learn more about the plastic surgery treatments and procedures performed by Dr. Suzanne Quardt (Dr. Q) please contact us at 760-324-2660. To learn more about Dr. Q’s Medical Spa please visit drqmedicalspa.com