About Rhinoplasty
At our practice in Pittsburgh, PA, our double board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Robert Chiu, realizes the effect a small change in the nose can have on an individual's appearance and on their self-perception and personality. The perception of beauty in the face depends on underlying principles of symmetry and proportions. The nose, as the most protruding feature of the face, can undermine an otherwise attractive face if the nose is too large, crooked, or disproportionate. The goal of rhinoplasty surgery at Today's Cosmetic Surgery is to change the shape or size of the nose so as to create a more harmonious balance and symmetry between the nose and face. Nose reshaping is one of the highest art forms in facial plastic surgery and all of cosmetic surgery, and recognized by most plastic surgeons also as the most technically challenging. Dr. Chiu is renowned for his meticulous work, aesthetic vision, and creativity in rhinoplasty surgery, and is one of the very few plastic surgeons in the Pittsburgh and Cleveland area who routinely performs revision rhinoplasty of other surgeons' work. He utilizes his extensive experience and impeccable training to address the most difficult cases, while minimizing the chance of needing future operations. Each patient will consult with Dr. Chiu about their goals and needs in order to determine the appropriate treatment and surgical plan.
Nonsurgical Rhinoplasty
The nonsurgical rhinoplasty is a noninvasive procedure done in our Pittsburgh, PA office that can treat skin depressions and some irregularities in the nose. This treatment with injectables typically uses temporary filler materials under the skin. This is not a replacement for surgical rhinoplasty or nose reshaping. However, it can address many cosmetic issues, those that do not involve reduction approach. During each consultation, he will discuss your aesthetic goals to make a recommendation for surgical or nonsurgical rhinoplasty.
Rhinoplasty Reviews
Ideal Candidates
A rhinoplasty procedure can be an effective way to reshape the nose for many patients. Some of the best candidates are adults and teenagers with mature facial features, with any of the following:
- Nasal bump/hump
- A large and/or bulbous nasal tip
- A nose with disproportionate features
- A nose that attracts attention
- Tip asymmetry
- Tip that hangs down
- Lack of definition to the nose
- Excessively flared nostrils
- Crooked nose or off-center nasal bridge
- Deviated septum
What to Expect
Dr. Chiu uses computer imaging to show patients their proposed rhinoplasty result for a chosen procedure. Typically, cosmetic (and functional nose surgery at the same time if deemed beneficial) will be performed as patients sleep, under general anesthesia, so they will not feel any pain or discomfort. Occasionally, IV sedation and local anesthesia can be utilized. Dr. Chiu is meticulous when it comes to planning and executing incision placement, and he takes extra care with the location of the incisions so they heal quickly and less scarring. A very small incision is typically made on the nasal columella (bottom of the nose) and extended into the inside of the nostrils, or occasionally they may be made in the natural creases along the sides or near the base of the nose. As a result of Dr. Chiu's extensive experience performing primary and revision nose surgeries, both for cosmetic and functional reasons, his incisions leave unnoticeable, if not invisible, scars. After the incisions are made, the bone, cartilage, and tissue around the nose can be reshaped and constructed to fit the patient's cosmetic goals.
Anticipated Results
Typically, after Dr. Chiu's rhinoplasty, his patients experience very little or no pain, and there is minimal or no bruising. In some cases, Dr. Chiu will leave drip pads to absorb nasal drainage the night of the surgery, and this temporary inability to breathe is quickly resolved the next day when the drip pads are removed and breathing returns to normal almost immediately. Swelling is mild and any significant swelling subsides in the first few days. If sutures were placed, they are removed in several days. The external nasal splint/cast is usually removed in about 5-6 days. A few special precautions are required during the recovery. Bending over, straining, and/or lifting can prolong swelling, and these activities are not recommended for 2 weeks after nose surgery. Excercise, like running, should also be avoided for two weeks. Contact sports should be avoided for 6 weeks. Patients may drive when the swelling subsides enough to not interfere with vision, and they may fly about 2 weeks after nose surgery. Overall, patients should expect improved facial appearance and breathe well within a few weeks of the surgery, and their results can last for years or a lifetime depending on their individual case.
Improved Facial Symmetry
If you have cosmetic defects or genetic issues in the shape of your nose, then our practice can offer restoration and improvement to your facial symmetry and breathing condition. Dr. Chiu is extremely knowledgeable and experienced in rhinoplasty procedures and can help achieve your goals through nose surgery. We invite you to schedule a consultation today.
