Overview
Rhinoplasty is a cosmetic and sometimes functional surgical procedure that alters the shape of the nose to improve its appearance and harmony with the rest of the face.
The most common reasons for seeking medical advice include:
- a bump on the nose
- a nose considered too wide
- a drooping nose tip
- an asymmetry
- a nose that's too long
- associated breathing difficulties
Rhinoplasty aims to correct these issues while maintaining natural proportions and achieving a subtle result.
This procedure requires a detailed analysis of the face in order to preserve the overall balance of the facial features.
Explanation of the technique
Rhinoplasty is a cosmetic surgical procedure performed on the nose to correct nasal imperfections and create facial harmony. This procedure involves reshaping the bone and cartilage structures of the nose to improve the balance of the profile while preserving the patient’s natural features.
As a plastic surgeon specializing in rhinoplasty in Paris, Dr. Alexandre Vairinho works closely with each patient to thoroughly explore their aesthetic goals. Since rhinoplasty is a permanent procedure, it is essential to take the time to discuss expectations, facial structure, and the overall balance of the profile. During the consultation, the surgeon analyzes the shape, size, and proportions of the nose to determine a natural and harmonious outcome.
Open rhinoplasty or closed rhinoplasty
Like any type of nose surgery, rhinoplasty can be performed using two different techniques: closed rhinoplasty or open rhinoplasty.
Whenever possible, Dr. Vairinho prefers closed rhinoplasty, a technique that involves making incisions inside the nostrils. This approach offers several advantages:
- no visible scar
- postoperative swelling, which is often less severe
- generally faster recovery
However, in certain situations—particularly during complex rhinoplasties or revision rhinoplasties—open rhinoplasty may be recommended. This technique provides a clearer view of the nasal structures and allows for very precise work on the cartilage and the nose’s architecture.
The choice of technique therefore depends on a number of factors: the anatomy of the nose, aesthetic goals, the complexity of the correction, and the patient’s surgical history.
The Different Techniques of Rhinoplasty
Several surgical approaches can be used in modern rhinoplasty.
– Structural rhinoplasty
La rhinoplastie structurelle est la technique classique. Elle consiste à remodeler et renforcer l’architecture du nez en agissant sur les os et les cartilages nasaux. Cette méthode permet de corriger différentes imperfections :
- bump on the nose
- nose that is too wide
- pointe tombante ou mal définie
- nasal asymmetry
It allows for the reshaping of the nose to achieve a more harmonious shape that remains stable over time.
– Preservative rhinoplasty
Preservation rhinoplasty is a newer technique designed to preserve as much of the nose’s natural structure as possible. It is part of a modern approach to cosmetic surgery aimed at achieving more natural-looking and less invasive results.
In this technique, the surgeon preserves the essential anatomical structures:
- the ridges of the nose
- the ligaments
- the cartilage at the tip
The procedure is performed beneath the nasal bridge to reshape the overall structure of the nose. Thus, the nasal hump is not removed but repositioned downward using a technique known as the “Push-Down” method.
Preservation rhinoplasty offers several benefits:
- more natural-looking results, while preserving the nose's natural contours
- reduced risk of irregularities on the bridge of the nose (dorsum)
- preservation of respiratory function
- surgery that is generally less invasive
This technique is particularly well-suited for patients who wish to improve the appearance of their nose while preserving their facial features.
Dr. Alexandre Vairinho, a cosmetic and plastic surgeon, is highly skilled in all modern rhinoplasty techniques. During the consultation, he carefully assesses the patient’s facial features, nasal structure, and expectations in order to recommend the most appropriate solution.
Rhinoplasty can only be considered once bone and cartilage growth has been completed, that is, in adulthood.
Overview of the procedure
The rhinoplasty process begins with a specialized consultation to carefully assess the shape of the nose and how it harmonizes with the rest of the face.
During this consultation, a comprehensive clinical examination is conducted to assess the structure of the nose, the condition of the skin, and the overall balance of the face. An analysis of nasal breathing is also performed to identify any potential functional abnormalities. This step allows us to discuss your expectations and establish realistic goals for the procedure.
You will receive detailed medical information and a personalized quote, in accordance with the legal cooling-off period. Medical photographs may be taken to facilitate preoperative analysis and monitoring of results.
Before the procedure, a preoperative evaluation is prescribed, and a consultation with the anesthesiologist is scheduled.
Rhinoplasty is performed in a clinic under general anesthesia. The procedure involves reshaping the bone and cartilage structures of the nose to improve its shape and harmony with the facial features.
The duration of the procedure is generally between 1h30 and 2h30, depending on the complexity of the procedure and the corrections to be made.
At the end of the procedure, a nasal splint is applied to protect the reshaped structures and maintain the new shape of the nose during the initial days of healing.
The procedure is usually performed on an outpatient basis or requires a short hospital stay, depending on the circumstances.
BEFORE / AFTER
Postoperative Care and Expected Results
Recovery from the procedure takes a few days. In the first few days following the procedure, it is common to experience:
- swelling of the nose and eyelids
- bruises around the eyes
- a stuffy nose
- temporary fatiguetemporary fatigue
The nasal splint is usually removed 7 to 10 days later during the follow-up visit.
Activities are gradually resuming :
- light daily activities: after a few days
- sedentary work: generally after 10 to 15 days
- Sports activities: usually after 4 to 6 weeks
Regular post-operative follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor healing and the progress of the results.
Rhinoplasty helps create a more harmonious, better-proportioned nose that complements the facial features. The expected benefits include :
- improvement of the nasal profile
- correction of a bump or asymmetry
- nose tip refinement
- improved facial harmony
- natural result
The results gradually improve over the course of several months, as swelling subsides and the tissues settle. The final results are usually visible 6 to 12 months after the procedure.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty is typically considered once the nose has finished growing, which is usually by the end of adolescence.
In most cases, the scars are located inside the nose. In open rhinoplasty, the external scar is very inconspicuous.
The aftereffects are somewhat uncomfortable for the first few days, but the pain is usually mild.
The results are long-lasting, even as the natural aging of the tissues continues.
Breathing may be temporarily restricted during the first few days, but will gradually improve as the wound heals.
>> This page is intended to provide general information. Only a consultation with Dr. Vairinho will allow for an accurate assessment of your situation and the recommendation of an appropriate treatment plan. A personalized quote is provided only during a consultation.
