What is a Rhinoplasty?

Dr. Pielet has been featured several times on both local and national TV for his expertise in rhinoplasty.  Rhinoplasty (commonly called nose reshaping surgery) is a procedure to improve the appearance and to sometimes improve the function of the nose if there are any breathing problems. Rhinoplasty can reduce or increase the size of the nose, change the shape of the tip, narrow the width of the nostrils, or change the angle between the nose and the upper lip. Many times the facial imbalance may be related to other facial features such as the chin, cheeks or lower jaw. Procedures to correct these imbalances may be combined with a rhinoplasty to achieve overall facial harmony.

Dr. Pielet performs computer imaging for rhinoplasty as part of the consultation.  This helps to give you a visual representation of the expected results.  Although imaging cannot guarantee actual outcomes, it is a very useful tool in the planning of your procedure.

How is a Rhinoplasty performed?

Rhinoplasty is an outpatient surgical procedure. Rhinoplasty surgery is customized for each individual, depending on his needs. There is not a universal type of rhinoplasty surgery that will meet the needs of every patient.  Incisions may be made within the nose and are concealed.  In the case of an open rhinoplasty procedure, an incision is made in an inconspicuous location across the columella (narrow strip of skin that separates the nostrils). In some situations, cartilage grafts, taken from within the nose or from other areas of the body may be recommended in order to help reshape the structure of the nose.

Internal nasal surgery (Septoplasty) can also be performed at the same time as the rhinoplasty to improve nasal breathing.

In some cases, rhinoplasty may be limited to the tip of the nose or it may involve repositioning of the bones. Other procedures such as chin reshaping (Sliding Genioplasty) are often combined with rhinoplasty to improve overall facial harmony.

What to expect during recovery

• Bruising and swelling around the eyes are normal and will fade within 1-2 weeks post-operatively
• Discomfort is usually minimal and is control with medication
• Some light bleeding and stuffiness might occur during the first few days
• There will be a small splint on the outside to protect your nose for approximately 5 to 7 days after surgery
• Return to light activity within a few days or as you feel ready
• Resume full activity within 3-4 weeks