Rhinoplasty

RHINOPLASTY (Surgery of the nose).

 

Every year, more than half a million people who are interested in improving the appearance of their noses seek consultation with plastic surgeons. Some are unhappy with the noses they were born with, and some with the way aging has changed their nose. For others, an injury may have distorted the nose, or the goal may be improved breathing. But one thing is clear; nothing has a greater impact on how a person looks than the size and shape of the nose. Because the nose is the most defining characteristic of the fase, a slight alteration can greatly improve one´s appearance.

 

If you’re considering rhinoplasty, this information will help provide a basic understanding of what a rhinoplasty can and cannot achieve. There is no ideal shape of nose nor ideal rhinoplasty, the goal is to improve the nose aesthetically, making it harmonize better with other facial features; skin type, ethnic background and basic bone structure. This procedure is performed the same on young teenagers than on patients in their eighties.

 

Because the facial features are different on each individual patient no amount of written information can replace a personal consultation with Dr. Gomez-Mendoza and his team.

 

The following information is strictly the opinion of Dr. Gomez-Mendoza and pertains to rhinoplasty and other cosmetic procedures as performed by him.

 

Skin tipe, ethnic background, and age are important factors to be considered in discussions with your surgeon prior to surgery. Before the nose is altered, a young patient must reach almost full growth, usually around age fiftheen. Exceptions are cases in which breathing is severely impaired.

 

Before deciding on rhinoplasty, ask your surgeon if any additional surgery might be recommended to enhace the appearance of your face. Many patients have chin augmentation in conjunction with rhinoplasty to create a better balance of features. Your surgeon will examine the structure of your nose, both externally and internally, to evaluate what you can expect from rhinoplasty. Your surgeon will also discuss factors that may influence the outcome of the surgery, such as skin type, ethnic background, age, degree of deformity, and degree of function of nasal structures. Also will explain how the nasal structures, including bone and cartilage, can be sculpted to reshape the nose and indicate how reshaping the chin, for example, could enhance the desired results.

 

 

Where are the incisions for a rhinoplasty?

 

All incisions or at least the majority of them are made inside the nose, where they are invisible. In some cases, an incision is made in the area of skin separating the nostrils. Next, certain amounts of underlying bone and cartilage are removed or rearranged to provide a newly shaped structure. For example, when the tip of the nose is too large, the surgeon can sculpt the cartilage in this area to reduce it in size. The angle of the nose in relation to the upper lip can be altered for a more youthful look or to correct a distortion.

 

The skin is then redraped over the new frame and the incisions are closed. A splint of tape is applied to the outside of the nose to keep the swelling to a minimum while the nose heals.

 

 

What type of anesthesia is used?

 

Dr. Gomez-Mendoza performs most rhinoplasty procedures, including functional rhinoplasty, under sedation (some patients refer to this as "twilight" type anesthesia gentle, short-acting medication is administered by a board certified anesthesiologist to insure comfort and security for our patients) and local anesthesia. Patients are under monitored anesthesia care since they arrive to the operating room till they leave the recovery area; ensuring that you receive the safest care possible. The expert care you deserve.

Our patients recover more quickly and with less discomfort than when general anesthesia is used.

 

 

After the surgery...

 

It's important for you to keep in mind that healing — of any form — is a gradual process during the initial phases of recovery, you'll experience minor pain and discomfort along with swelling and bruising around the operative areas in some cases. This is normal. You'll be given medications to handle the pain, and in time, the swelling and bruising will disappear. We advise you to avoid blowing your nose for seven to ten days after surgery. Nasal splints are usually removed seven to fourteen days after surgery.

 

Full recovery usually takes five to seven days, most patients go back to work in a week. Scars are usually not noticeable.

 

 

Where will your rhinoplasty be performed?

 

Although Dr. Gomez-Mendoza has been granted staff privileges at most of the local hospitals and outpatient surgery centers, he performs most rhinoplasty procedures at the modern Puerta de Hierro Medical Center. Whether you choose to have your procedure done in the peaceful seclusion of our state-of-the-art Medical Center or an area hospital; rest assured that you'll receive the finest care available. In Puerto Vallarta you can choose the hospital of your preference.

 

 

How do I prepare for my rhinoplasty?

 

Nose surgery must be individualized for each patient; Dr. Gomez-Mendoza will evaluate your face, including your skin and bone structure and with your assistance; make recommendations as to the specific procedures that will most likely help you achieve your aesthetic goals. A detailed history of medical conditions that could affect your surgery will be obtained including use of medications, vitamins, etc.

 

You will be given detailed written instructions on how to prepare for your surgery including guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and avoidance of certain vitamins and medications. If you smoke it’s especially important to stop (and also to avoid second-hand smoke) for at least two weeks prior to surgery because of the deleterious effect of smoking upon the healing process. Carefully following these instructions will help your surgery go more smoothly. In addition, we'll also be available to answer any questions you might have or any concerns that arise. Please don't hesitate to call us.

 

 

Are there any risks?

 

When rhinoplasty is performed by a qualified plastic surgeon certified by the Board of Plastic Surgery, complications are infrequent and usually minor.

 

While Dr. Gomez-Mendoza and his team make every effort to minimize risk, individuals vary greatly in their anatomy, their healing ability as well as in their reactions to surgery and anesthesia. You can reduce your risks by closely following the advice of your surgeon concerning your pre- and post-operative care.

 

To contact plastic surgeon Dr. Jesús Gómez Mendoza about any cosmetic surgery procedures, please fill out our contact form or call us at +52 (33) 3848-5477.