RHINOPLASTY

What is Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty is a plastic surgery procedure for the nose that can be performed for aesthetic and/or functional purposes.
From an aesthetic standpoint, its main goal is to improve the shape, size, and proportion of the nose to achieve greater harmony with the rest of the face, correcting features such as a prominent nasal bridge, a drooping or wide tip, or noticeable asymmetries.
From a functional standpoint, rhinoplasty aims to correct structural problems that affect breathing, such as a deviated septum, congenital malformations, or trauma-related damage.

This procedure can be performed using the open technique (with a small external incision on the columella) or the closed technique (with internal, non-visible incisions), depending on the complexity of the case. In addition, advances in surgical techniques now allow for more natural results and shorter recovery times.

Rhinoplasty is one of the most in-demand procedures in facial cosmetic surgery, as precise modifications to the nose can significantly transform the expression and balance of the face, while also improving the patient’s quality of life when there is a functional component involved.

Benefits of Rhinoplasty

  • Aesthetic: Improves the shape, proportion, and symmetry of the nose, harmonizing the face.

  • Functional: Corrects breathing problems caused by deviations or malformations.

  • Psychological: Boosts self-esteem and confidence in one’s personal image.

  • Long-lasting: Results are usually durable, as long as proper care is maintained.

     

 

How is rhinoplasty performed?

The procedure is performed in an operating room under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia. The surgeon can use two main techniques:

  • Closed rhinoplasty: Incisions are made inside the nose, with no visible external scars.
  • Open rhinoplasty: A small incision is made in the columella (the strip of skin between the nostrils) to allow greater access and visibility of the nasal structure.

During the surgery, it is possible to:

  • Reshape bone and cartilage.
  • Adjust the nasal septum (septoplasty, if necessary).
  • Reduce or increase the projection of the nasal tip.
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The average duration is 1 to 3 hours, and in most cases, it is an outpatient procedure.

Who are the ideal candidates for rhinoplasty?

Los candidatos ideales para una rinoplastia son personas que gozan de buena salud general y que buscan mejorar tanto la apariencia como la función de su nariz. Es importante que hayan completado su desarrollo facial, lo cual generalmente ocurre entre los 16 y 18 años, para asegurar que los resultados sean estables en el tiempo. Estas personas deben tener expectativas realistas sobre lo que la cirugía puede lograr, entendiendo que la rinoplastia mejora la forma y proporción de la nariz, pero no puede garantizar la perfección absoluta. Además, es fundamental que no sean fumadores o que estén dispuestos a dejar de fumar antes y después del procedimiento, ya que el tabaquismo puede afectar negativamente la cicatrización y recuperación. Finalmente, los candidatos deben estar comprometidos a seguir todas las indicaciones médicas antes y después de la cirugía para asegurar un proceso de recuperación exitoso y obtener los mejores resultados posibles.

FAQ's

Can rhinoplasty affect my sense of smell?

In most cases, rhinoplasty does not affect the sense of smell, but temporary changes may occur due to swelling during the healing process.

Yes, revision rhinoplasty can be done to correct or improve previous results, but it is generally more complex and requires a longer recovery.

When performed properly, rhinoplasty does not restrict facial expressions. It aims to preserve natural movement while improving the nose’s appearance.