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The nose is the most prominent feature of the face, affecting its overall appearance.
Many factors determining Rhinoplasty surgery is the shape of the nose including size, width, length, tip-shape, and symmetry. With so many factors “shaping” it, the nose is one of the most common physical attributes transformed through surgery.
What is a Rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty, which means “nose molding,” refers to the procedure by which the structure of the nose is reformed. Using Rhinoplasty, Dr. Rivela can modify undesirable features of the nose and reshape them, creating a more desirable appearance. With his Woodlands office just 30 minutes north of downtown, Dr. Rivela sees patients from all over the Greater Houston area.
The two main categories in Rhinoplasty are reduction and augmentation. In reduction Rhinoplasty, after removing some cartilage and bone, the nasal bone is filed down and the nose cartilage is shifted and reshaped. Augmentation Rhinoplasty, as the name implies, requires adding tissue to the nose is often more complex, and requires more time to perform. In some cases, a combination of both reduction and augmentation is required to achieve the desired appearance.
A good candidate for Rhinoplasty is physically healthy, over the age of 13, does not smoke, and has realistic expectations about the outcome. By consulting with Dr. Rivela, you will enjoy one-on-one time and receive answers to all your questions.
Your Rhinoplasty Consultation with Dr. Rivela
During a personal consultation with Dr. Rivela, you will be thoroughly evaluated and assessed. Through discussion, he can discern what you would like to achieve through Rhinoplasty and explain how these goals can be best met. This is your chance to ask questions, make your desires known, and discuss what you can expect before, during, and after the procedure. Surgical risks will be explored at this time and a release form signed. Dr. Rivela will also discuss with you any additional surgeries that may be needed to create facial balance.
Be prepared to discuss:
- The desired outcome of your Rhinoplasty
- Surgical options available
- Medical conditions, drug allergies, and medical treatments
- Use of current medications being taken including prescriptions, OTCs, vitamins, herbal supplements, tobacco, and drugs
- History of previous surgeries
Dr. Rivela will also:
- Evaluate physical health and discuss any pre-existing health factor that could be considered an additional risk
- Take photographs for medical records
- Discuss options for best achieving desired results
The caring staff at Rivela Plastic Surgery in The Woodlands looks forward to hearing from you soon to answer questions about this, or any other, procedures. By providing support and information, our goal is to create the most stress-free environment possible each step of the way on your cosmetic enhancement journey.
MEET DR. RIVELA
With over 25 years of experience, Lucian J. Rivela M. D., F. A. C. S. is proud to offer some of the most innovative procedures available in cosmetic and plastic surgery, aesthetic treatments, and skincare. Dr. Rivela is board certified and is a member of both The American Society of Plastic Surgeons and The American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. He and his staff are dedicated to helping you be your best confident, natural, and authentic self.
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Your Rhinoplasty Procedure
Dr. Rivela performs Rhinoplasty under general anesthesia. The surgery takes between 1-3 hours, depending upon which features are reconstructed, and can be done at either a hospital or surgical center. An overnight stay is usually not required.
About the Procedure
AnesthesiaGeneral
Location of operationHospital or surgery center in The Woodlands/North Houston area
Length of surgery1-3 hours
Length of stayOutpatient (home same day)
Your Rhinoplasty Recovery
Discomfort after a Rhinoplasty: You may have moderate pain for 2-7 days requiring the use of pain medication. You may also have numbness at the tip of your nose lasting for several weeks. For keeping nasal passages moist, it is helpful to use either a humidifier or nasal passage spray. If the bone has been broken, you may have pain for 5-10 days.
Swelling and Bruising: All swelling and bruising should improve within 10-14 days. It is important to keep your head constantly elevated and frequently apply ice packs to help reduce swelling during the first three days. Black eyes may also develop temporarily during the healing process. Bruising will begin to disappear before the swelling does.
Bandages: Upon completion of Rhinoplasty, your nose will be taped. If it is necessary to break the bone, a small cast will be applied. After the cast or hard splint is removed, a soft splint will be in place for one week. Both will be removed in 5-10 days. Depending on the amount of bleeding involved, packing may be used. The packing has some discomfort while in place and will be removed in 1-7 days. Removal of the packing has minimal discomfort as well.
Stitches: Absorbable stitches on the inside of the nose will be removed in 4-7 days. If you have an open Rhinoplasty, there will also be stitches under the tip of the nose.
Make-up: Make-up may be applied after the removal of the tape and soft splint.
Work: If you are returning to work, you will be physically able to within a week. You will start feeling comfortable going out in public in 1-2 weeks.
Exercise: You may resume exercising in 3-4 weeks, but avoid contact sports for at least six weeks.
Final result: The amount of time it takes to see the final results of Rhinoplasty varies case by case. For some, it may take only three months. For others, it may take as long as two years. In most cases, final results are seen within six months.
Rhinoplasty FAQs
How do I prepare for a nose job?
What types of nose jobs are there?
Who is a good candidate for rhinoplasty?
What factors should be considered when picking a rhinoplasty surgeon?
What happens during a rhinoplasty?
What are the risks associated with rhinoplasty?
What is rhinoplasty recovery like?
How Much Does Rhinoplasty Cost?
The overall cost of a Rhinoplasty is affected by anesthesia fees, hospital fees, post-surgery garments, and medications. Price is also impacted by medical tests, surgeon’s fees, and the exact techniques employed.
Schedule a Consultation
As one of the most well-regarded plastic surgeons performing Rhinoplasty in The Woodlands, TX, Dr. Rivela is here to answer all your questions about Rhinoplasty. To confirm whether you are an ideal candidate for Rhinoplasty, contact us today to schedule your in-person consultation.
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