6 Different Types of Rhinoplasty Surgery

The nose is one of the most noticeable features of the face. If there are aesthetic issues such as bumps or point tips, they may attract unwanted attention and sometimes even bullying. Functional issues such as a deviated septum – while not particularly noticeable – may cause breathing difficulties and other difficulties in daily living. Nose surgery (aesthetic or not) is designed to address these issues to buoy your confidence and improve your quality of life. Below are 6 types of rhinoplasty for patients who are planning to enhance their nose. 

1. Reduction rhinoplasty 

This is a type of nose reshaping surgery that is intended to shrink the size of the nose. Patients may opt to shrink the general size of the nose or focus on specific areas such as the hump or the tip. Plastic surgeons typically conduct this type of procedure by removing bone or cartilage from the nose to accomplish the expected size and shape. The first step toward your reduction rhinoplasty is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Chaowen Wu at Revel You. During this visit, the surgeon should be able to listen to your concerns and examine your nose before determining whether this technique is for you. 

2. Augmentation rhinoplasty

This is a type of rhinoplasty designed to help augment areas of the nose. Plastic surgeons use tissue grafting or cartilage from other areas of the nose to accomplish this. In cases where the patient lacks enough materials to complete the nose, synthetic implants, allogeneic materials, and even autologous implants from the patient’s own body may be used. 

3. Post-traumatic rhinoplasty

The nose is an intricate structure that can be disastrously altered when injured (due to car accidents, fights, and sports injuries). Some issues that can impair the nose’s perfectly balanced structure include damaged cartilage, broken bones, internal deviations, asymmetries, and even trouble breathing. Nasal bleeding is another source of concern that may result in blood clots and blockage. Post-traumatic rhinoplasty is a type of nose reshaping that is designed to address these structural issues to restore normal form and function. 

4. Reconstructive rhinoplasty 

The nose can be severely disfigured due to facial trauma or surgery to remove cancer. There may be a shortage of tissue in the area, leading to serious deformity and disfigurement. Reconstructive rhinoplasty is a type of nose reshaping that focuses on restoring tissue that may have been damaged beyond repair. Plastic surgeons may use flaps and grafts acquired from other parts of the body to rebuild the missing components in the nose. This is a complex procedure that needs to be completed by a highly experienced surgeon. In many cases, multiple back-to-back surgeries are required (spaced out over months) before the necessary rebuilding is achieved. 

5. Ethnic rhinoplasty

This refers to nose reshaping surgery that is performed on individuals of non-Caucasian descent. The goal is usually to enhance the appearance or function of the nose while also preserving hereditary features. Plastic surgeons need to diligently work with each patient to understand their needs and create a treatment plan that will achieve the desired objectives. At Revel You, most patients looking for ethnic rhinoplasty are individuals of Asian, African-American, Middle Eastern, and Hispanic heritage. 

6. Revision rhinoplasty 

This is rhinoplasty that is usually performed in order to correct a prior, dissatisfactory procedure. While the majority of rhinoplasty patients are happy with the outcome of their procedure, some may feel less than pleased. For instance, patients who were looking to decrease the width of the nostrils may feel that it has been overdone. An individual seeking a smaller nose may perceive their new size as still being too large. Similarly, someone looking to alleviate breathing difficulties may feel that they still structure. Revision procedures are highly complex and need to be performed by an experienced surgeon who has a keen eye for detail. You’ll need to carefully work with the surgeon so that your precise requirements are understood and effectively integrated into your treatment. 

Conclusion 

The right type of rhinoplasty for you should be influenced by your specific needs and expectations. Scheduling a consultation with a plastic surgeon is the first step toward reaching your aesthetic or functional goals. Get in touch with Dr. Wu’s office to schedule a free consultation visit today.