Rhinoplasty

Using a combination of IV sedation and local anesthetic, we use concealed incisions to reshape the cartilage and bone structure of the nose. By carefully contouring the underlying structure of the nose, a more pleasing and proportioned shape takes form. At times, this is as simple as removing a “hump” on the nose. Other times, it may be more complicated with the delicate reshaping of the cartilages of the tip of the nose.

Oftentimes, internal nasal work such as septoplasty or turbinate reduction may improve nasal airways. In some cases, the patient wears a plastic splint on the outside of the nose for one week, or occasionally, the surgeon utilizes splints inside the nose. Modern rhinoplasty nose surgery procedures rarely require the nasal packing of days past. Bruising varies; if the surgeon addresses bony structures on the nose, it is not unusual to have bruising under the eyes for five to seven days. It often takes many months for the final results of the rhinoplasty to be apparent as the swelling that inevitably follows surgery often conceals subtle changes.

Occasionally, facial disproportion is caused by more than a nose that is out of balance. We commonly combine a chin augmentation with rhinoplasty as a weak chin can make a large nose appear much more prominent.

At Finn Facial Plastics, you have a detailed discussion with Dr. Finn to best determine your goals and realistic outcome of the surgery. With cutting edge three-dimensional computer imaging, we may modify your nose on the computer screen to better understand your needs and desires. More importantly, we may demonstrate the limitations of surgery to ensure realistic expectations. Only with careful, considerate discussion and education about the procedure can a patient be adequately prepared to achieve a satisfactory outcome. Dr. Finn’s special combinations of training both in the aesthetics and in the function of the nose helps insure optimal results. As an Otolaryngologist and a Facial Plastic surgeon, Dr. Finn never sacrifices functionality of the nose for aesthetic purposes.

Just as each nose is different, each rhinoplasty is different as well. There is no “cookie cutter” rhinoplasty. Dr. Finn utilizes various techniques to adapt to each individual patient and to deliver the very best results. His years of experience and specialty training will help you achieve your goals. Rhinoplasty is Dr. Finn’s favorite surgery to perform; he has extensive experience in both primary and revision rhinoplasty.

You will receive a surgical quote and any clearance forms required at your consultation. Should you decide to proceed, we will connect you with our patient care coordinator, Shannon Jones. At this time, you will select a procedure date and pay a $500.00 non-refundable booking fee to reserve this date. Once the surgery date is set, we schedule a pre-operative appointment two weeks prior to surgery.

At your pre-op, you will have ample time to discuss your upcoming procedure in great detail and have all your questions answered. You will bring the required clearance forms to this visit unless we have already received them. We will review all pre- and post-operative care, prescribed medications, and any provisions we may give you for use pre- and post-surgery. You will review and sign the consent for surgery, and the balance will be due at the conclusion of this appointment.

It is vitally important to avoid all blood thinning medications/supplements for two weeks prior to surgery. This includes any aspirin or aspirin-containing products as well as any anti-inflammatories such as ibuprofen or naproxen (including Motrin, Aleve and Advil). Generally, you may take Tylenol (Acetaminophen). Avoid supplements such as Vitamin E, multi vitamins, and omega 3 fatty acids (fish oil and flax seed oil.) You will be given a complete list of medications/supplements to avoid at your pre-op. All these medications can contribute to bleeding problems following surgery and can increase the amount of bruising.

We want you back to your normal routine as quickly as possible, so in addition to avoiding blood thinners, we provide our surgical patients with a supply of Arnica Montana and Vitamin K cream which are both clinically proven to help reduce bruising and swelling. Vitamin K cream applied to your skin two weeks before surgery tends to reduce bruising. Arnica Montana is a homeopathic herb that helps to reduce swelling and bruising. We also have a laser called the V Beam Perfecta that aids in speeding up stubborn bruising! It targets the pigment in the bruise, causing it to break up and dissipate much faster than on its own. We encourage surgery patients to take advantage of this laser treatment at no charge as often as you want while the bruising is still present. We will also go over surgery specific tips at your pre-op that can help speed up the down time!