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Rhinoplasty Overview

A Gateway to a New Beginning 

Simply put: rhinoplasty is one of the primary centerpieces of Dr. Thompson’s practice. 

He has dedicated himself to acquiring the skill and artistry to create beautiful, custom results for each patient. Although many nose surgery jobs are performed purely for cosmetic reasons, the procedure can also help patients with specific breathing problems to regain nasal function and enjoy an improved quality of life. Rhinoplasty is one of the most complex facial plastic surgeries available, but the results can be incredible when it is executed well and customized to the patient’s needs. The procedure is highly versatile and can address a wide variety of cosmetic and functional concerns. Depending on the needs and goals of the patient, a plastic surgeon might:

  • Raise or refine the tip of the nose
  • Remove dips or bumps on the bridge of the nose
  • Narrow the nasal bridge
  • Modify the size of the nostrils that are excessively wide or upturned
  • Reshape a disfigured nose caused by Rhinophyma

Additionally, a rhinoplasty in Denver can address breathing difficulties present from birth or ones that have occurred after an accident, injury, or previous surgery.

A rhinoplasty or septoplasty can be combined with other nasal surgeries to help treat nasal obstruction caused by a deviated septum, the collapse of the nostrils on inspiration, a floppy or weak nasal tip, and swelling inside the nose. Dr. Thompson takes excellent satisfaction in improving a patient’s quality of life by improving their breathing, even without other cosmetic concerns.

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Is Rhinoplasty in Denver Right for Me?

The nose is one of the most prominent facial features, and it plays a significant role in facial aesthetics and breathing function. People elect to have this procedure for various reasons: dissatisfaction with the nose’s appearance, nose tissue overgrowth, defects from a poorly healed break, a deviated septum, or even poor facial balance. People who would like to improve the appearance of their noses or breathe better may be potential candidates for a Denver rhinoplasty. 

Patients involved in an accident or sustained an injury that has changed their nasal anatomy and function may also be candidates. The procedure is usually reserved for patients with no severe medical conditions or illnesses that can pose a safety risk or compromise the procedure results. Before getting the procedure, patients should quit smoking, as cigarettes inhibit healing and can increase the risk of complications. 

Rhinoplasty Before & After Photos

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What are the Benefits of Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty has a high patient satisfaction rate thanks to its many advantages. Benefits include:

  • Restores balance to the profile
  • Enhances harmony among the features
  • Draws the gaze to the eyes and the smile
  • Corrects imperfections in the nasal tip, bridge, and nostrils
  • Improves breathing and airflow
  • Boosts self-confidence
  • Reinforces gender identity
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Your Initial Rhinoplasty Consultation 

An initial consultation aims to create a customized treatment plan that will result in a beautiful, natural-looking new nose for you. During your consultation at our Denver offices, Dr. Thompson will customize a plan for you to create a well-proportioned nose that enhances the natural beauty of your other facial features. The goal is harmony between the nose, eyes, cheeks, and chin. During the consultation, he will go over the following:

  • Medical history: Medical conditions, previous medical treatments, drug allergies, current medications, herbal supplements, and vitamins will be discussed and reviewed to ensure the patient is healthy enough for elective surgery.
  • Physical exam: The face is examined, measured, and photographed. The overall size and shape of the face, including the lips and chin, are measured and documented so the surgeon can observe the patient’s current facial balance. The internal structures of the nose that impact breathing are examined as well.
  • Goals and expectations: The patient’s aesthetic vision and expected results will be discussed. Computer imaging will be used to help the patient visualize potential modifications.

Patients wishing to have a rhinoplasty in Denver will have their procedure scheduled at a convenient date and time.

The Day of Your Rhinoplasty in Denver

Rhinoplasty is usually performed under general anesthesia. The patient is asleep throughout the procedure and feels no pain or discomfort. Dr. Thompson conducts the procedure using one of two approaches depending on the needs of the patient:

  1. Open rhinoplasty: An open approach uses incisions inside the nostrils and a small incision at the base of the nose between the two nostrils. This approach is used for better visualization and precision for aesthetic work. It is also the preferred approach for correcting significant defects and traumatic nose injuries. The external incision heals very well with minimal visibility of a scar.
  2. Closed rhinoplasty: A closed or endonasal approach places all incisions within the nostrils to avoid visible scarring. This is also a common approach for cosmetic rhinoplasty and can be applied to various patient conditions or complaints.

Incisions are always strategically placed so they are not readily seen, blend with natural skin lines, and do not form a visible scar after surgery. After incisions, bone, and cartilage are carefully shaved and shaped to achieve the patient’s desired look.

Cartilage may be added as an augmentation option. Autologous cartilage grafts are taken from the nasal septum, ear, or rib cartilage. Fillers or fat grafts may be used to add volume to certain areas. Silicone is not used as it has a high risk of reacting poorly with existing tissue and can cause infection or tissue breakdown.

Once all the patient’s desired changes have been made, incisions are carefully closed with permanent or dissolvable sutures. Dissolvable or absorbable sutures do not require removal. The nose is not typically packed, but a thin splint is sometimes left in each nasal cavity. Depending on the details of the surgery, an external nasal splint may be placed over the nose to protect it and decrease swelling. The total procedure time is usually 60-90 minutes but may be longer depending on the cosmetic goals. The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis, and a family member or friend is required to drive the patient home after they are alert and their pain is under control.

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What is Recovery Like After a Rhinoplasty?

During the first week of healing after your rhinoplasty in Denver, your nasal splint will shield the nose from accidental bumps, and it’s worth noting that sometimes splints are not needed. Surgical splints are left inside the nose to support the new nasal structures when indicated. Most swelling in the nose will resolve within a few months, and a small amount of minor, virtually unnoticeable swelling is seen for up to one year. Strenuous exercise must be avoided for 10 to 14 days following surgery because elevated blood pressure associated with exercise increases the risk of bleeding, swelling, and bruising.

Social activities may be resumed within a similar timeframe if you are concerned about bruising or swelling. Otherwise, routine daily activities may be resumed immediately after surgery. Most patients return to work within 7 to 14 days, and those who desire to return to work earlier can be cleared within 24 hours after surgery if it is non-strenuous.

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Why Choose Us for a Rhinoplasty in Denver?

Dr. Thompson is uniquely qualified for nasal surgery as he is trained in head and neck surgery. He has completed a highly competitive fellowship in plastic surgery solely dedicated to the face and neck. As a facial plastic surgeon specializing in cosmetic and reconstructive procedures of the face, he takes a particular interest in performing surgeries that improve the aesthetic appearance of the nose while simultaneously preserving or improving breathing function to achieve the best possible outcomes for his patients.

Rhinoplasty FAQ

Does rhinoplasty leave scars?

My nasal skin is thin. Will this interfere with my results?

What is the best age for rhinoplasty?

What are the potential risks and complications of a rhinoplasty procedure?

Does rhinoplasty leave scars?

Most rhinoplasty incisions are made inside the nostrils. These incisions form scars, but they are not visible. The open approach creates the possibility of a small scar at the base of the nose. However, the scar typically heals very well and is nearly invisible. Additionally, it is located in an inconspicuous spot where it is difficult for others to see. Patients can view rhinoplasty before-and-after photos to get peace of mind that visible scars do not form after the procedure.

My nasal skin is thin. Will this interfere with my results?

It is more challenging to work with thin skin because it does not hide small imperfections as well as thick skin; however, Dr. Thompson uses meticulous surgical skills and patience to achieve excellent results on patients with thin skin.

What is the best age for rhinoplasty?

Late adolescence and early adulthood are considered the promising age range for optimal rhinoplasty results. Surgery is also possible for younger patients with structural defects and for older patients who are willing to accept a slightly longer recovery time.

What are the potential risks and complications of a rhinoplasty procedure?

Rhinoplasty carries the same risks as all surgeries, including bleeding and infection. While always a potential problem, both complications are minimized through good surgical practices with extensive training as board-certified surgeons. Specific rhinoplasty risks include:

  • Hypersensitivity
  • Numbness
  • Unfavorable scarring
  • Difficulty breathing

Patients can minimize risks by being honest about any potential health concerns and by following their surgeon’s pre and post-operative instructions closely.

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