Surgery of the Nose

The nose, because of its position and prominence, is one of the most decisive features in the overall aesthetic of a face. Rhinoplasty, the surgical reshaping of the nose, is one of the most common of all plastic surgery procedures. Dr. Loving’s extensive experience allows him to offer many options to the patient who wishes to alter the form of his or her nose. Rhinoplasty can address the entire structure of the nose, or it can reshape only one of its parts, such as the tip or bridge. The nose can be made larger, smaller, narrower or simply straighter. The span of the nostrils can also be altered, as can the angle between the nose and upper lip.

Such changes in the shape of the nose can have minor or dramatic effects on a patient’s looks, depending on his or her features and objectives. Alteration of one or a few aspects of the nose can bring a new and subtle sense of balance and harmony to the face. Alternatively, the nose can be almost entirely reshaped, thereby substantially changing a patient’s looks. Rhinoplasty can also be performed in conjunction with other rejuvenating surgeries, such as blepharoplasty or a facelift. In these cases, the goal of the surgery is to correct the changes in the shape of the nose that have occurred with age, such as drooping of the nasal tip, an overall widening of the nose or a “fleshy” appearance. Choosing from among these options involves careful thought and patience from both the patient and the surgeon.

Most people recognize in their noses certain family traits. It is often said that a person’s nose “has personality”, a descriptive phrasing that reveals the psychological implications of the nose and of any contemplated changes to it. Dr. Loving understands that for this and other reasons, reshaping the nose often involves emotional, as well as aesthetic, considerations for a patient. As with every other procedure, rhinoplasty requires a careful and thorough consultation between Dr. Loving and the patient so as to determine both what is desired and what is possible insofar as the natural shape of the nose and the rest of the face are concerned. Good communication between patient and doctor is necessary to ensure that the doctor understands the patient’s wishes and that the patient has realistic expectations.

Special Cases

Asian patients may desire improvements in nasal height and bridge elevation. They may also want changes in nostril width and thinning of the nasal tip.

Surgery

Patients seeking rhinoplasty must have completed their growth spurt, after which the adult form and placement of their features are evident. For girls, this means waiting until they are about 14 or 15, while for boys the age is usually 17 or 18. Patients should be healthy and psychologically stable. They must tell Dr. Loving about all medications and vitamins they take and about any specific medical conditions.

Rhinoplasty is usually done in the operating room within Dr. Loving’s office, though a patient may choose to have it done in a hospital. Anesthesia can be local or general, according to a patient’s wishes. The operation usually takes
an hour or two, and after it, a companion must take the patient home. Most rhinoplasty incisions are hidden inside the nostrils. Occasionally, small incisions are made at the base of the nostrils. When the surgery is completed, a splint may be applied to the nose and, if needed, nasal packs or soft plastic splints will be placed in the nostrils to protect the nose’s new shape. These will be removed after a few days. Pain following the operation is usually mild to moderate and easily controlled by pain medication prescribed by Dr. Loving. In the majority of cases, patients feel normal and can return to their public lives in a week. Visible swelling and bruises are usually gone after seven to ten, when the new shape of the nose begins to emerge. It is important for patients to understand, however, that the final, desired result of the surgery will only be completely evident after a month or two, when the skin has had
time to conform to the new structure and shape of the nose.

Examples of rhinoplasties performed by Dr. Loving can be seen in the photo albums of his work which are kept in his office library. To request more information or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Loving, please call 212-472-0900.