Rhinoplasty

Our nose is the most prominent feature on our face. Any perceived imbalance can impact our overall facial appearance. Rhinoplasty, or surgery to reshape the nose, can have remarkable results, even if the patient only wants minor modifications; the newly shaped nose can enhance a person’s facial contours. Rhinoplasty is an individualized surgery that can reduce or change the size or shape of the tip or bridge of the nose, or just change the angle between the upper lip and the nose. It may also be performed to correct defects caused by an injury and remedy breathing difficulties. This is common in both males and females.

Many people, when considering nasal surgery, dislike their profile (side) view. Rhinoplasty can make the relationship between the nose and upper lip more proportionate and aesthetically pleasing. What many people do not realize is that the chin also plays a large role. Often times, the doctor will suggest a chin augmentation in conjunction with rhinoplasty surgery to achieve optimum results.

Who is a good candidate for rhinoplasty surgery?

Any person with realistic expectations and dissatisfaction with their nose is a good candidate for this procedure. If you are looking to make an improvement in the way you look, rhinoplasty can be a very rewarding experience. Age is also a consideration. As experienced Pittsburgh rhinoplasty specialist, Dr. Theodore Lazzaro , usually prefer to wait until age 14-16, when nasal growth is completed. It is also important to consider a teenager’s social and emotional adjustment.

If a patient has trouble breathing, the insurance company may cover the septoplasty portion of the procedure. Our patient coordinator will meet with you during your consultation to see if you meet certain qualifications that will allow the insurance company to cover the procedure.

Are there any risks involved in rhinoplasty surgery?

When rhinoplasty is performed at our facility outside Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, it is performed by a qualified plastic surgeon. Under these circumstances, complications are infrequent and usually minor. Just like all surgeries, rhinoplasty carries a risk of infection, bleeding, and reaction to the anesthesia, which are extremely rare.

Patients who smoke have an increased risk of poor healing. We advise that you stop smoking several weeks prior to and after surgery to allow your body to heal properly.

You can reduce your risks by following the doctor’s instructions both before and after the surgery.

How do I plan for rhinoplasty?

Communication between the doctor and the patient is essential. In your initial consultation, you need to be very frank about your expectations with Dr. Lazzaro. They will explain in detail what is and what is not possible given your individual facial anatomy. Dr. Lazzaro will go over the various factors that may influence the outcome of the procedure. These factors include the shape of your face, nasal bone and cartilage structure, your age, and your expectations.

What happens during rhinoplasty surgery?

Dr. Lazzaro will inform you about what is actually involved in the surgery itself, preparations, including what you should and should not do before surgery as well as pricing. The actual surgery usually takes one to two hours, depending on what needs to be done and is typically performed under a general anesthetic.

Dr. Lazzaro usually performs open rhinoplasty. This means the surgeon will make a small incision on the underside of your nose for better visibility. The plastic surgeon will then sculpt the nose to the desired shape by reshaping the bone, cartilage and soft tissue. Once the procedure is finished, the surgeon or staff will apply a splint to the outside of your nose to help maintain the new shape.

What happens after the rhinoplasty procedure?

Your face will feel puffy for the first 24 hours after rhinoplasty. Nasal packing is NOT used, which minimizes post-operative discomfort. You will notice swelling and bruising, which will usually peak at about 48-72 hours following surgery. Using cold compresses and keeping your head elevated will help with the swelling. You will return to our center in five to seven days after surgery to have your splint removed, sutures taken out, and to take your first glimpse at your new nose, which will be about 75 percent from the final result.

How long is the recovery after rhinoplasty?

Dr. Lazzaro will give you specific advice based on your personal needs. You can expect to return to your usual routine after a few days. You will want to take it easy for a couple of weeks and avoid strenuous activity, which could raise your blood pressure. You will want to be careful not to hit your nose. Most of the noticeable swelling will be gone in a couple of weeks. The final appearance of your new nose will take up to six months or even a year to emerge.

Schedule an Appointment Today*

Aestique Medical Center is a premier plastic surgery practice, serving the needs of patients throughout Pennsylvania. In addition to performing nose surgery, Dr. Lazzaro are skilled in a number of other facial plastic surgeries, including facelift, cosmetic ear surgery and chin augmentation in Pittsburgh. To learn more or to schedule a consultation, call 724-832-7555.

This 15 year old complained of not liking her side view of her nose, particularly the bridge.  Dr Lazzaro performed a rhinoplasty to help smooth the line giving her the profile she wanted.

AGE  15       HEIGHT   5’ 5”      WEIGHT   116

PROCEDURES   Rhinoplasty

This 22 year old complained about the appearance of his nose after having broken it several times.  Dr Lazzaro performed an open rhinoplasty to give him balance.

AGE  22       HEIGHT   5’ 10”      WEIGHT   160

PROCEDURES   Rhinoplasty

This 17 year old displeased with the appearance of her nose, namely the hump and the tip.  Dr Lazzaro performed an open rhinoplasty.

AGE  17          HEIGHT   5’ 8”      WEIGHT   114

PROCEDURES   Rhinoplasty

This 30 year old complained of some difficulty breathing on the right side, and she is displeased with the nose, primarily the hump over the dorsum after an injury about 2 years ago. Dr Lazzaro performed an open septorhinoplasty to restore some function as well as give her the profile she was hoping for.

AGE  30        HEIGHT   5’ 6”      WEIGHT   130

PROCEDURES   Open Septorhinoplasty