Rhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty, or nose surgery, is one of the many facial surgery procedures offered by Dr. Charles Slack, a highly sought-after plastic surgeon in Allen, Texas. His years of training and experience combined with a heightened sense of artistry have given him a reputation as a provider of completely natural-looking, aesthetically pleasing rhinoplasties.
Slight or Significant Changes
As a sometimes overlooked yet fundamental part of the human face, the nose and its profile can have a significant impact on an individual's appearance and his or her self-perception. A rhinoplasty by Dr. Slack can be performed to make only a tiny change, or major changes - he knows that everyone's nose and face are a unique combination that merit a unique rhinoplasty procedure.
Reasons for a Rhinoplasty
An additional aspect of rhinoplasty procedures is the cosmetic vs. "corrective" factor: some rhinoplasties are performed for purely aesthetic reasons, whereas others are necessary to correct a breathing problem (for example, a deviated septum) or another medical condition. A third category would be reconstructive rhinoplasties, in which trauma (e.g., a car collision), disease or a congenital problem is the basis for the nose surgery.
Rhinoplasty: Aesthetic Factors
A rhinoplasty can be performed purely for aesthetic reasons - that is, to obtain a more proportional facial profile. For example, Dr. Slack performs rhinoplasties to revise:
- a nose that is too large for the face
- a too-wide bridge or overall shape
- a nose with a less-than-straight silhouette
- a "hooked" nose
- a bulbous or drooping tip of the nose
- too-large nostrils, or asymmetrical nostrils
- a nose that deviates from the aesthetic ideal
In addition, for some patients Dr. Slack can perform rhinoplasty in combination with another facial surgical procedure, such as a facelift, browlift, or blepharoplasty (eyelid lift).
Who Is a Good Candidate for a Rhinoplasty?
Reconstructive or corrective rhinoplasties have their own guidelines, of course; in contrast, a rhinoplasty for purely aesthetic reasons is appropriate for an individual:
- whose nose has reached its adult size and shape
- who is in good health
- who has realistic expectations about what a rhinoplasty will (and will not) do for one's appearance
Your Pre-rhinoplasty Instructions
Once you and Dr. Slack have arrived at a decision and rhinoplasty plan that is right and comfortable for you, a pre-operative visit will be scheduled about a week before your surgery. If you are a regular smoker (cigarettes, cigars, etc.), you need to quit completely at least two weeks before the date of the rhinoplasty. Dr. Slack will also advise you regarding the use of medications; be sure to tell him about all medications, supplements, and homeopathic remedies that you take.
Several "before" pictures of your face and nose will be taken; these are for your own comparison and for Dr. Slack (they would never be shared or used without your consent). Dr. Slack and his staff will give you specific pre-operative instructions - including guidelines about not eating or drinking anything after midnight of the day before the surgery - and you'll be given a prescription for pain medication and an antibiotic from Dr. Slack.
Be sure to arrange to have someone drive you home after your immediate post-surgery recovery period.
The Day of Your Rhinoplasty
Most rhinoplasties take from one to three hours and are performed under general anesthesia. A final step in the rhinoplasty is the application of surgical dressings over your nose and other measures to minimize the swelling and bruising that may occur.
After your recovery from the anesthesia, you'll be able to depart with your "escort," your pain medication, your antibiotic, and your specific post-rhinoplasty instructions.
After Your Rhinoplasty Surgery
It's advisable to rest as much as possible for a week or so after a rhinoplasty, although you could be "up and around" in a day or two after the surgery. If pain from the surgery is present, the prescribed medication can be used, and your surgical dressings on your nose will be removed at Dr. Slack's office at a pre-scheduled post-op appointment.
You may have some bruising and/or swelling of the nose, but these are temporary, lasting at most for a few days to a week or two. Dr. Slack and his staff will monitor your progress closely.
Talk with Dr. Slack about a Rhinoplasty
Whether you know exactly what you need- a rhinoplasty procedure or you simply want to explore your options, please feel free to schedule a private consultation with Dr. Slack at his Allen, Texas offices to discuss your goals and concerns. He looks forward to speaking with you.