Wednesday, December 30, 2009

Ask Dr. Man- Rhinoplasty

Dear Dr. Man, My daughter is graduating high school this year and is very self-conscious about her nose. She hates the bump on her nose. I don’t think it’s that bad, but it really bothers her. She’s going off to college next year and wants to get this fixed before she goes away. Is she too young? What exactly does this procedure entail?

Surgery to reshape the nose (otherwise known as rhinoplasty) is one of the most common of all plastic surgery procedures. It is common among men and women of all ages, young and old. Rhinoplasty can be used to reshape the nose in many ways, depending on the patient’s needs and desires. Some of these ways include reducing or increasing the size of the nose, changing the shape of the tip or the bridge, narrowing the span of the nostrils, or even changing the angle between your nose and your upper lip. Rhinoplasty can also be used to correct injuries or birth defects, or to help relieve breathing problems.

The best candidates for rhinoplasty are people who are looking to improve their appearance, are physically healthy, psychologically stable and realistic in their expectations.

Rhinoplasty can be performed under local with IV sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the extent of the procedure and on what you and your surgeon prefer. Rhinoplasty usually takes an hour or two; however, complicated procedures may take longer. When the surgery is complete, a splint will be applied to help your nose maintain its new shape. Nasal packs or soft plastic splints also may be placed in your nostrils to stabilize the septum, the dividing wall between the air passages.

When rhinoplasty is performed by a qualified plastic surgeon, complications are infrequent and usually minor. You can reduce these risks by carefully following your surgeon's instructions. In the days following surgery, your face will be bruised and swollen, but this passes. Each day, your nose will begin to look better. Healing is a gradual process; and some subtle swelling may be present for months after surgery.

Rhinoplasty can do wonders to enhance appearance and boost self-confidence. When meeting with your plastic surgeon, you and your daughter should discuss expectations and realistic options for her.

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Dr. Man


Dr. Daniel Man is a board-certified plastic surgeon who has dedicated his life’s work to helping people look younger and improve their appearance through cosmetic surgery. He is a noted author, artist, inventor and educator. Dr. Man has been featured on major television networks, as well as national and local magazines and newspapers for his work as both a plastic surgeon and an artist. He has a successful private practice in Boca Raton, FL. For more information about Dr. Man, visit www.drman.com.

1 comments:

  1. It is true that best results do not completely lie in the hands of your doctor. It is undeniable though that he is one of the most important factors that contribute to patient safety. One way to find out if you will be under capable hands during aesthetic plastic surgery is to ask the surgeon himself.

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