Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure to reshape the nose or restore a nose’s appearance after trauma or a medical condition. It may entail placement of implant or graft (either man made or natural).

Are You a Candidate for Rhinoplasty?

Dr. Tran’s patients often express interest in rhinoplasty because they are unhappy with the appearance of their noses. Some are looking to restore the nose’s shape after trauma or a broken nose. Others are seeking correction of a deviated septum and/or deformity that is obstructing the nasal airway.

During your consultation, Dr. Tran will carefully go over your options and help you decide the best procedure for you. Rhinoplasty may be combined with a chin implant for more spectacular results in reshaping the face. Oftentimes, even slight changes to the shape of the nose can produce a dramatic effect on appearance, improve your breathing, and fill you with self-confidence.

Preparing for Rhinoplasty

Dr. Tran and his staff will instruct you to stop smoking and avoid medications that contribute to increased bleeding during a rhinoplasty.

The day before surgery, you should take care not to drink or eat anything after midnight. On the morning of surgery, take a prescribed medication with a small sip of water and avoid wearing makeup or perfume.

Lab testing and/or medical evaluation
Stop smoking (and nicotine) at least 6 weeks before and after surgery
Avoid taking any anti-inflammatory drugs, such as aspirin
Arrange for transportation home after the procedure

How is Rhinoplasty Performed?

Rhinoplasty requires general anesthesia most of the time. Occasionally, it may be performed under local anesthesia if only minor surgery is being performed (i.e. trimming of the nostrils or implant placement).

The procedure may last from two to six hours; the duration depending on the type of surgery, the deformity and extent of nose reshaping.

Dr. Tran will make incisions to access the inner structure of your nose
He may remove or add cartilage to reduce or increase the size of your nose
He may reshape the tip of your nose using sutures or tip grafts made of cartilage
Dr. Tran may also use fat grafts or tissue fillers to add volume to desired areas
In certain cases, an implant (man made or natural) may be placed

Recovery

Rhinoplasty is performed as an outpatient procedure. You will be able to return home on the day of surgery. Dr. Tran and his staff will follow up to ensure that you are going through a smooth recovery.
You should plan on staying in bed with your head elevated during the first day following the procedure.
Some degree of swelling and bruising may appear immediately after the procedure and is considered normal. Mild bloody discharge from the nose may be expected in the first 2 days.
You may expect to resume some of your normal activities in one week (i.e. walking)
You should continue to avoid any contact sports or strenuous activities for at least 4 weeks after surgery.
Most bruising will resolve in approximately six weeks. However, some swelling may persist even after this period and take up to a year to resolve completely
As swelling subsides, your results will continue to improve. Once your new nose settles, you can expect it to bring you confidence and satisfaction for many years to come.

Ethnic Rhinoplasty

While all patients who desire rhinoplasty share a common goal of altering the appearance or function of their nose, their expectations often depend on cultural heritage or ethnic background. As “beauty is in the eye of the beholder,” there is no single standard of beauty in the world. Perception of beauty varies from one culture to another.

Coming from a multi-cultural background, Dr. Tran understands that rhinoplasty not only serves to bring out your beauty but also emphasize your ethnic identity. In helping you achieve the desired results, he will mold your nose according to your uniqueness, giving you a handsomely beautiful nose that looks like you … only better.

With ethnic diversity gaining appreciation, many patients no longer request “westernized” noses but seek results that reflect their ethnic origins. Ethnic rhinoplasty seeks to improve the appearance and function of your nose while taking your cultural background into consideration.

Dr. Tran will make sure that your ideal nose contributes to the balance and harmony of your facial features so that you may look better but not unnatural. An experienced Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Tran understands multiple challenges particular to ethnic rhinoplasty. Dr. Tran strives to preserve these unique characteristics determined by your genetic heritage, while addressing your specific desires to give you the ideal nose you always dreamt of.

Revision Rhinoplasty

Revision rhinoplasty is a nasal surgery that repairs undesired results or complications from a previous nose job. There is a growing demand for this procedure as rhinoplasty is one of the most difficult plastic surgeries to perform.

Rhinoplasty is a complex surgery that requires a great deal of precision. The risks to benefits ratio is higher with this type of surgery.

How is it Different from a Traditional Rhinoplasty?

Revision rhinoplasty typically involves corrections of the septum (the nasal structure that separates the right and left nasal passages) and the turbinates (bony structures on the sides of each nasal passage). Cartilage may be grafted from the nasal septum to repair the defects that pose cosmetic problems or cause breathing difficulties. Following revision rhinoplasty, most patients report not only improved appearance, but also ability to breathe better.

The Cost and Financing Options

The cost for rhinoplasty may vary from patient to patient depending on various factors. Some portion of the surgery may be covered by your insurance carrier; especially relating to trauma or illness. However, most rhinoplasties are considered Cosmetic Surgery and not cover by insurance. Our staff will advise you as to the cost and payment options at your consultation.