Rhinoplasty

What Is Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty is a sophisticated surgical procedure that refines the nose. Given the anatomical complexity of the area and each person’s unique features, no two rhinoplasty procedures are the same. Rhinoplasty reshapes and resizes the nose, which is done by removing excess tissue, adding grafts, resculpting existing cartilage and skin, or placing internal sutures. 

In addition to improving the proportionality of the nose to better harmonize with the rest of the face, rhinoplasty can also improve breathing for dramatically improved quality of life. 

Cosmetic and Functional Improvements Through Rhinoplasty

Not every one of our nasal reshaping surgery patients in the Chicago North Shore area comes to us with both aesthetic and functional concerns, but for those who do, a functional rhinoplasty adds the benefit of improving breathing quality. 

Understanding how a functional rhinoplasty differs from cosmetic rhinoplasty and when each is applied is key to formulating a successful approach.

Aesthetic Enhancements

Rhinoplasty can dramatically improve the appearance of your nose by addressing concerns such as:

• A nose disproportionate to your facial features
• A bulbous, drooping, hooked or excessively upturned nasal tip
• Visible bumps or depressions along the nasal bridge
• A crooked or asymmetrical nasal bridge caused by injury or genetics
• An overly wide or flattened nasal profile
• Enlarged, asymmetrical or irregularly shaped nostrils

These changes work together to create better facial balance and symmetry, helping you feel more confident in your appearance.

Functional Improvements

Functional rhinoplasty involves many of the same techniques as a cosmetic rhinoplasty, but with the aim to address medical concerns, including: 

• Deviated nasal septum causing airway obstruction
• Hypertrophied (enlarged) nasal turbinates restricting airflow
• Nasal valve collapse limiting breathing capacity
• Structural damage from previous injury affecting respiratory function

By correcting these internal issues, functional rhinoplasty can significantly improve your breathing ability, making daily activities, exercise and sleep much more tolerable and comfortable. 

Open vs. Closed Rhinoplasty Techniques

Closed Rhinoplasty involves incisions being placed entirely inside the nostrils, leaving no visible external scarring. This technique works well for less complex modifications and offers a shorter recovery period. The internal approach provides access for many nasal reshaping procedures while allowing the incisions to remain completely hidden.

Open Rhinoplasty requires a small incision across the columella (the band of tissue separating your nostrils) in addition to internal incisions. This technique allows Dr. Terrasse to better visualize the structures inside the nose, making it the better option for more complex or extensive cases. The incision heals with a very small scar.

Revision Rhinoplasty

If you’re unhappy with a previous nose surgery, revision rhinoplasty offers an opportunity to improve the outcome. This is an advanced approach that requires exceptional skill and planning, as it requires working with scar tissue and possibly damaged structures. 

Patients seek revision rhinoplasty for the following reasons:

• Asymmetry or irregularities following the first procedure
• Breathing issues that weren’t corrected
• Breathing problems that developed after the surgery
• Results that don’t align with aesthetic goals

Choosing an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon, who specializes in aesthetic surgery, for your rhinoplasty is vital to preventing the need for a revision. In either case, Dr. Terrasse’s extensive training and experience make him well-equipped to deliver long-lasting, natural results. 

Septoplasty for Deviated Septum

Septoplasty specifically targets a deviated nasal septum, the internal wall dividing your nasal passages. When this structure is misaligned, it can severely restrict airflow through one or both nostrils, making breathing difficult.

This procedure involves repositioning or removing portions of the septum to create a straighter internal airway. Unlike cosmetic rhinoplasty, septoplasty typically qualifies for insurance coverage when performed to correct breathing issues.

Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty Options

For patients looking for minor refinements without surgery, non-surgical rhinoplasty offers an alternative approach using injectable dermal fillers. This office-based procedure can smooth bumps, lift a drooping tip, or improve symmetry through strategic filler placement.

While non-surgical rhinoplasty provides immediate results with minimal downtime, it has limitations. The technique works only for augmentation (adding volume), not reduction, and results are temporary, typically lasting 12 to 18 months, but can be repeated if desired. 

Are You a Good Candidate for Rhinoplasty?

Ideal candidates for rhinoplasty should be in good overall health, have realistic expectations about outcomes, and have completed facial growth (typically around age 15 for girls and 17 for boys, though individual development varies). Non-smokers or those willing to quit for several weeks before and after surgery tend to heal more successfully.

During your consultation, Dr. Terrasse will carefully examine your nasal structure, discuss your concerns and goals, and determine whether rhinoplasty can achieve the improvements you’re looking for. He utilizes photo imaging technology to help you visualize anticipated results. 

Rhinoplasty Recovery: What to Expect 

While every experience varies, knowing what to expect and how to address healing at each stage of rhinoplasty recovery is essential for your peace of mind as well as your physical recovery.

Immediately After Surgery

You will most likely have a splint and soft internal packing and a small gauze pad supporting your nose after surgery. While these dressings may feel mildly cumbersome at first, it’s vital you keep them in place to support the delicate structures of the nose as they heal. You’ll be directed to keep your head elevated when resting for several days.

First Two Weeks

Dr. Terrasse will typically remove the external splint and any internal packing towards the end of the first week of recovery. At this point, you should notice a significant improvement in how you look and feel, though swelling and bruising may still be in the process of resolving. Most patients feel comfortable returning to work and light social activities by the second week of recovery, especially with the help of concealing makeup.

First Few Months

Swelling will continue to resolve over the first several weeks of recovery, typically resolving by the third month mark. You may be cleared to gradually return to vigorous activity as you approach the one-month mark, but high-impact exercise may be off-limits for several more weeks. Your results will continue to improve as swelling subsides and subtle changes within the nose occur. 

Long-Term Results and Final Outcome

How long it takes for your full results to settle can vary significantly according to skin thickness, the extent of the procedure, your body’s healing characteristics and other factors. Most patients see significant results by months three or four, but know that the healing process takes upwards of a year to run its course. Patience is essential, and it’s well worth the wait.