About Rhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty is a cosmetic plastic surgery performed on the nose to improve its look and shape. In addition, rhinoplasty can help correct nasal functionality in some patients. Board-certified plastic surgeon Scott Sessions in La Mesa, CA is a seasoned expert with over 20 years of experience. He takes a subtle approach to rhinoplasty to produce the most beautiful and natural-looking outcomes. Though a rhinoplasty procedure only makes slight changes, the results are usually beautiful and dramatic. Dr. Sessions performs rhinoplasty to make a nose look smaller or to enhance a nose that is misshapen, protrudes out, is too large or wide, or has a bump on top. The goal is to produce a more aesthetically pleasing nose that meets your goals and functions as it should. Learn more about rhinoplasty and then contact Sessions Plastic Surgery Centre to schedule your consultation.
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Ideal Candidates
Women and men in good health who have reached facial maturity and who do not smoke can be candidates for rhinoplasty. It is often considered to change hereditary nose shapes, as well as unwanted shapes caused by injury or prior surgery. Most patients who undergo rhinoplasty wish to change one or more of the following issues:
- Nose size in relation to facial balance
- Nose width at the bridge
- Nostril size and position
- Nose profile with visible humps or depressions on the bridge
- Nasal tip that is enlarged, bulbous, drooping, upturned, or hooked
- Nostrils that are large, wide, or upturned
- Nasal asymmetry
Surgical Technique
Rhinoplasty is performed with the patient under IV sedation or general anesthesia and is usually considered an outpatient surgical procedure. Rhinoplasty has varying surgical techniques, depending on the unique cosmetic goals of the patient. Dr. Sessions places incisions where they are hidden at the nostril base and/or inside the nose. This allows access to reshape the underlying cartilage and bone. Depending on the patient's goals, he then smooths bumps, narrows nasal bones, reshapes the nasal tip or nostrils, or improves the angle between the nose and upper lip. Then the skin is draped back over the newly enhanced framework. Sutures are placed either inside the nose or in the natural external crease.
What to Expect
After nose surgery, our patients are monitored closely in our recovery area for a bit and then released to heal at home. A splint, internal tubes, or packing will likely be placed inside the nose, and a splint or bandages will be placed on the outside to support and protect the new structures during initial healing. The area around the nose will be very swollen and bruised for a week or so. In most cases, there is bruising under the eyes as well. Cold compresses and prescription medication can help with these effects. On average, strenuous activity or exercise should be avoided for about one month after surgery. It may take several months for the swelling to fully dissipate and up to a year — and sometimes longer — for the outcome of the surgery to fully refine. Although the results of nose surgery are usually long-term, the nose cartilage may continue to reshape and move tissue, which may change the outcome over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does rhinoplasty cost?
The cost of any plastic surgery, including rhinoplasty, varies based on the technique used and the complexity of the procedure. Before estimating costs, Dr. Sessions will create your custom surgery plan based on your goals. Once this is done, he can go over costs for your procedure. To help make your surgery easier to afford, Sessions Plastic Surgery Centre accepts many payment methods, and we can help you find low-interest financing.
Will my insurance cover functional nose surgery?
Rhinoplasty to improve your appearance is not covered by insurance; however, if your nose reshaping surgery is considered medically necessary to improve your breathing, some of your costs might be covered by insurance. If you are considering using your insurance, please tell Dr. Sessions during your consultation. Our office will help you submit the needed paperwork and information to your insurance to process your claim.
Are there nonsurgical options to change my nose?
To smooth lumps and bumps on your nose, a wrinkle filler (like Juvéderm) may be an option. An injectable filler can temporarily correct minor imperfections on your nose, which may help you decide to proceed with rhinoplasty. Dermal fillers are temporary while nose surgery is better for long-lasting results, larger changes, and to improve the internal structure for better function. During your consultation, Dr. Sessions will let you know if you may be a candidate for nonsurgical nose reshaping.
How painful is rhinoplasty recovery?
Each patient tolerates post-operative pain differently. While some patients describe the pain as an ache, others experience greater discomfort. We typically prescribe a mild pain medication for the initial recovery, but some patients may need a stronger prescription. This is one reason why attending all of your follow-up appointments after your procedure is very important. We not only need to monitor your healing progress, but we will be able to prescribe pain medication based on your experienced discomfort.
Can I combine nose surgery with other facial surgeries?
Many patients consider combining nose surgery with another procedure, like a facelift or neck liposuction. Combining surgeries for a more dramatic result can be discussed during your consultation with Dr. Sessions. Once he understands your goals, he can help you decide what procedures should be in your treatment plan. Nose reshaping surgery can help your whole face look more balanced so Dr. Sessions may encourage you to wait to see your results before considering another procedure.
a balanced, beautiful profile
Rhinoplasty is a very common procedure used to address the displeasure you may feel when looking at your facial profile. It is a highly sought-after cosmetic treatment with high success rates. If you are unhappy with the appearance of your nose or have breathing issues, rhinoplasty may help. Dr. Sessions aims to reshape your nose so your whole face looks more proportionate and attractive. Even small tweaks can make a huge difference. We invite you to contact Sessions Plastic Surgery Centre in La Mesa, CA and make a consultation.
