Each day people see your face. It’s never hidden like other parts of the body and it’s how we recognize and remember people. The nose is a component of the face that plays a huge role in your overall appearance. If it is uneven with your facial features, too bulbous or large, contorted due to injury or genetics or if you have trouble breathing due to a physical irregularity, rhinoplasty, or surgical nose reshaping, can correct these faults. Dr. Dean G. Davis, a dual-board certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon and otolaryngologist, provides rhinoplasty services that improve facial symmetry for men and women living in and around St. Petersburg, FL.
At our practice conveniently located in Tampa, we understand that the nose is highly important in balancing facial features. We also have a solid understanding of what men and women are looking for when they want to change their noses. Men want a nose that complements their manly facial features, such as their jawline. Women want a nose that is feminine and complements their lips, eyes, and chin. We listen to our patient’s desires for their appearance and this combined with our years of experience allows us to customize each individual’s treatments and produce gratifying results.
If you are interested in rhinoplasty or revision rhinoplasty, contact Davis Facial Plastic Surgery for a consultation. Our office is conveniently located for residents of the St. Petersburg region.
Rhinoplasty – An Overview
Rhinoplasty, more commonly known as a nose job or nose surgery, is a procedure to reshape the nose for both cosmetic and functional purposes. Sometimes rhinoplasty is used to correct a previous nose surgery. This is called revision rhinoplasty. Many people elect to have rhinoplasty to satisfy their aesthetic goals or to aid in breathing. Dr. Davis specializes in nose surgery and has extensive experience with rhinoplasty. His stellar reputation for delivering superb results is so well known that his colleagues in the medical field constantly refer their patients to him.
Rhinoplasty – The Personal Benefits
A successful rhinoplasty surgery can help a patient solve breathing problems, feel self-assured, become more social and look more youthful, balanced and attractive. Don’t underestimate the results that rhinoplasty can have on the quality of your life. Most patients report greater self-confidence, improved self-esteem, and a more balanced appearance after recovering from their surgeries. You’ll make a different first impression on people you meet and you will enjoy positive changes in your professional and personal relationships. If you are ready to make a significant life change, we encourage you to explore the possibilities this surgery offers. Take a look at our website to see how we have changed the lives of others.
Rhinoplasty Surgery – The Different Techniques
No two rhinoplasties are ever the same because each person is built differently and has different nose structures. There are different approaches and techniques to achieve different looks and to accommodate different needs. The procedure that is right for you will depend on many factors. During your consultation at Davis Facial Plastic Surgery, we will evaluate the shape of your nose, talk to you about the appearances you prefer and determine the best treatment plan to help achieve those goals. The techniques we may recommend include:
Open rhinoplasty – The most common form of cosmetic nose surgery is called an open rhinoplasty procedure. In this approach, Dr. Davis makes incisions on the outside and inside of the nose, including on the columella, or connective tissue that separates the left and right nostrils. Through the incisions, the nose skin is raised thus exposing the internal nasal structure, which is mainly cartilage. Then the nose is reshaped. Once the reshaping is complete and excess skin and cartilage tissue have been improved, tissue grafts are put into place to maintain the new nose’s structure. Lastly, the incisions are closed with sutures. This technique gives Dr. Davis complete access to the nose structure, which allows for an efficient and easily predictable treatment. It is his preferred rhinoplasty technique.
Closed rhinoplasty – Closed rhinoplasty is beneficial because all incisions necessary for the procedure are hidden inside of the nasal cavity. With no incisions on the outside of the nose, there are no external scars. However, the closed approach makes it more difficult to specifically outline the intricacies of the treatment plan to the patient because the operation must be conducted through small surgical openings with limited visibility. Dr. Davis is skilled in closed rhinoplasty and produces natural-looking, beautiful results. The recovery period is the same as open rhinoplasty.
Ethnic rhinoplasty – Ethnic rhinoplasty is not designed specifically for different ethnicities. It actually refers to rhinoplasty procedures that are customized to characteristics and unique aesthetic goals of individuals who are not of Caucasian ethnic backgrounds. Physical traits of different ethnicities can differ greatly. A nose surgery technique that is suitable for some individuals will not necessarily be suitable for others. Noses differ in size and shape and the skin may be thicker depending on a person’s ethnic background. Dr. Davis has worked with patients of all races and ethnicities and customizes treatment based on differing traits and the patient’s goals. If you are of Hispanic, African-American or Asian descent and are interested in rhinoplasty surgery, we can help at Davis Facial Plastic Surgery.
Revision rhinoplasty – Revision rhinoplasty is used to correct issues of a previous nose surgery that resulted in complications or undesired results. Revision rhinoplasty is different from primary rhinoplasty because the structure of the nose has been altered significantly. Scar tissue, tissue grafts, and reduced nose structure must be taken into consideration when planning revision rhinoplasty. Dr. Davis has over a decade of experience working exclusively in the field of facial cosmetic surgery. He’s known for his expertise, skill and superb results.
Most procedures are completed using the open approach, especially revision rhinoplasty procedures. However, the best technique for you and surgery details will be discussed during your consultation at our Tampa clinic. Rhinoplasty is not a “one size fits all” approach. We tailor your treatment to your needs. Dr. Davis provides professional guidance and helps you look clearly at the pros and cons of each rhinoplasty technique before you make a decision.
Computer Imaging
At Davis Facial Plastic Surgery, patients considering rhinoplasty can get an idea of what their nose will look like after surgery by using a computer imaging simulator. This technology is available for plastic surgeons performing rhinoplasties and to prospective patients so they can envision their future look. The computer simulation allows Dr. Davis to demonstrate what proposed changes to the nose will look like on a patient. While the image does not reflect the actual results of the rhinoplasty, the image provides a plan. Please understand that each patient has unique nasal abnormalities and heals differently. This may alter the final look.
Most patients already have an idea of how they want their new nose to look when they schedule a consultation with Dr. Davis. Some bring pictures. After an examination, Dr. Davis may have suggestions to ensure a natural looking result and offer different additional suggestions. The nose job simulator is helpful for illustrating Dr. Davis’s suggestions so that both the patient and doctor agree on the desired outcome. By using a photograph of the patient’s nose before surgery, the rhinoplasty simulator digitally alters that photograph and displays the changes discussed during the consultation.
It is important for patients to remember that a rhinoplasty simulator is a helpful tool for predicting the look of the nose after surgery, but a computer can’t predict a patient’s structural abnormalities within their nose or their unique healing processes. Dr. Davis may need to reposition or trim a patient’s deviated septum to align it with the center of the nose. If this correction is necessary, it impacts the changes Dr. Davis must make to the dorsum. To maintain the function and structural integrity of the nose when performing a rhinoplasty, Dr. Davis must consider every part of the nose and make decisions accordingly. Only Dr. Davis, not the computer, understands the delicate work required by a surgeon once the surgery has begun.
Tip Plasty – Improving the Nasal Tip
Many people have a distorted nose tip that they would like to correct. For these individuals, tip plasty can be a better option than undergoing a complete rhinoplasty. A tip plasty involves several procedures including grafting, excision and special methods of suturing to reshape and enhance the tip of the nose. Dr. Davis uses these techniques to narrow and refine the cartilage in the nose tip, improve definition and correct excessive roundness.
The tip plasty procedure can be performed using the closed technique, which involves incisions only made in the interior part of the nose. This is performed by making a small incision in the wedge of skin between the nostrils called the columella. This procedure is considerably less invasive than a complete rhinoplasty surgery and may only take an hour to complete under IV sedation or local anesthesia. The recovery is also shorter and less severe. Tip plasty usually has only a small degree of bruising and swelling. Due to the location of the incisions, scarring will be unnoticeable. Most patients can return to work and resume some normal activities within a week after surgery.
Recovery and Aftercare – Post-surgery Process
At Davis Facial Plastic Surgery, we are proactive during the recovery process. We take steps to ensure that the treated area heals properly and with few to no complications. Patients who undergo rhinoplasty are provided with vitamin supplements pre and post-surgery to minimize bruising and swelling. After surgery, tape dressings and splints are used to protect your nose from damage, to help control bleeding, to minimize swelling and to guide the healing process. Your dressings should be worn for approximately two weeks and will be replaced after the first week. The second dressing and splints are taken care of after 12 to 14 days. Remaining bruising can be covered with makeup.
Restrictions
During the recovery phase, you will have to restrict your activities to ensure proper healing. In the first six weeks after surgery, you should avoid all strenuous activity. You will not be able to use eyeglasses or sunglasses. Additionally, you will be asked to refrain from blowing your nose because this could jeopardize the healing process and cause complications. You may use the nasal saline spray if you like. Once the restrictive phase is over, we will teach you how you can wear eyeglasses and sunglasses so that they don’t place unnecessary strain on your nose.
After six weeks, you can resume normal activities, take part in sports and other strenuous activities and enjoy your new nose. Though the healing process will not impact your daily routine at this point, the healing is not complete for approximately one year after surgery. The long-term fibrosis changes to the tissue and cartilage take extra time to completely heal and set.
How Much Does Rhinoplasty Cost?
Rhinoplasty or revision rhinoplasty for cosmetic purposes is considered an elective procedure by your medical insurance carrier and is not covered. If the cosmetic surgery is performed in conjunction with septal surgery for functional reasons, some insurance coverage may apply. For assistance in determining insurance coverage or utilizing CareCredit® financing, please contact us. Dr. Davis accepts payment via cash and credit card.
Why Should You Choose Davis Facial Plastic Surgery?
Davis Facial Plastic Surgery is a name trusted by both former patients and colleagues in the medical field. Dr. Davis is a dual-board certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon and otolaryngologist, which means his medical background focuses exclusively on neck and facial surgery. Dr. Davis has unparalleled experience in nose surgery and he has an intimate understanding of aesthetics and function. His commitment to quality care and the superior, natural-looking results that he delivers to his clients are what he takes most pride in.
If you live in or near St. Petersburg, FL, please don’t hesitate to contact our practice with questions you have regarding rhinoplasty. We are here to assist you in any way we can and we are ready to help you make a life change.
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