Performing Rhinoplasty on the Bridge of the Nose

Rhinoplasty (nose job) is one of the most popular cosmetic surgery procedures in America. Adjusting the various structures of the nose can have a dramatic impact on facial symmetry and overall appearance.

Many patients who would like to undergo rhinoplasty experience issues with the bridge of their nose. Below is some information on how rhinoplasty can address the needs of these patients.

Cosmetic Issues Caused by the Nasal Bridge

There are many issues that can affect the appearance of the bridge of the nose. They include:

  • A Crooked Nose: Whether due to injury, a deviated septum, or other factors, a crooked bridge of the nose can lead to serious aesthetic issues.
  • A Long Nose: A prominent bridge that protrudes can lead to a nose that appears long, which can detract from a person's other facial features.
  • A Wide Nose: Many people who have wide noses would prefer to have their noses appear thinner and more delicate.
  • An Angular Nose: Sometimes a person's nose can be quite angular, giving the face a more severe appearance.
  • Bumps on the Bridge: There may be bumps or humps on the bridge of the nose that are quite prominent and affect overall facial aesthetics. 

Rhinoplasty can be used to correct all of these issues, helping patients achieve a more ideal appearance in the process.

Ideal Candidates for Rhinoplasty

Good candidates for rhinoplasty are people who have cosmetic issues with their nose that they would like to have resolved. Patients should have a good understanding of the risks and benefits of the procedure, and they should also have realistic expectations about the final outcomes of surgery.

It's important that rhinoplasty candidates be in good health and not suffer from any sort of medical problems that would make facial surgery a risk to general wellness.

The Rhinoplasty Procedure

There are many different options for adjusting the bridge of the nose. A plastic surgeon can tailor the treatment to the patient depending on the aesthetic goals.

In general, altering the bridge of the nose will involve adjustments to the cartilage and bone of the septum. By reworking these structures, bumps can be removed, the bridge can be straightened, and the length of the nose adjusted. Incisions will be made inside of the nostrils or along the columella (the skin between the nostrils) depending on the nature of the surgery. The former is known as a closed rhinoplasty and the latter is referred to as an open rhinoplasty.

During the consultation process, a plastic surgeon can go over the ideal surgical options to meet your needs.

Recovery from Rhinoplasty

After rhinoplasty, patients can expect soreness, bruising, and swelling. Patients will want to take two weeks off from work and get ample rest so that major side effects can be resolved. The nose is quite delicate and malleable after surgery, which is why plastic surgeons ask that patients avoid strenuous physical activity, rubbing or touching the nose, and even blowing the nose until advised otherwise.

Will There Be Visible Scarring after Rhinoplasty?

Since incisions are made inside of the nostrils or along the columella, they are very difficult to notice. After a patient is fully healed, the scarring will be well hidden, even when people are up close.

Schedule a Facial Plastic Surgery Consultation

For more information about improving the appearance of the nose and enhancing your facial features, be sure to contact our cosmetic plastic surgery center today. We look forward to your visit and discussing your treatment options in greater detail.

June 18, 2017 - by: Dr. John Griffin | TOPICS: Face