Rhinoplasty Procedures

Nose Reshaping (Rhinoplasty)

Rhinoplasty can produce a very dramatic change in the overall appearance of the face by creating a better balance of facial features. It can correct results of aging such as a drooping nose tip, or deformities such as a large hump or bulbous tip. It can change the size of the nasal bridge, reduce nose size and width, change nostril shape or the angle between nose and upper lip, and reshape the tip. Read a testimonial about nose reshaping

Because changes to the nose can so significantly alter a person's appearance, a great deal of care must taken to evaluate, plan and execute the rhinoplasty. Overly operated noses can appear unattractive and unnatural. Prior to your surgery, Dr. Levens will thoroughly discuss the specific changes you wish to make and how those changes will impact your other facial features. His goal will be to correct negative elements while preserving your individuality so that your reshaped nose will blend more aesthetically with your face and not appear overly corrected.

GOOD CANDIDATES FOR NOSE RESHAPING:

Healthy men and women who are dissatisfied with the appearance of their noses are good candidates for this procedure. While nose reshaping is often associated with teenagers, national statistics show that 89% of all rhinoplasties are performed on men and women over 18.

THE PROCEDURE:

In some case, no external incisions to the skin are necessary to perform rhinoplasty. In other cases, internal and carefully concealed external incisions may be necessary to achieve most desirable results. Dr. Levens will discuss incision placement with you during your complimentary consultation.

During rhinoplasty, the structures which make up the framework of the nose, including cartilage and bone, are carefully altered or re-shaped. The skin is then re-draped over the new framework to achieve the desired appearance. Internally, deviated areas of the nasal septum are straightened to maximally open the airways while preserving the support function of the septum.

Tape and a nasal splint and packing will be applied at the end of the procedure to secure and cushion the changes made to the framework of the nose.

CONSIDERATIONS :

To some extent, the particular characteristics of the patient's skin and cartilage will determine the degree of correction possible. For example, thick or oily skin may somewhat limit the amount of definition that can be produced in such areas as the nasal tip. Since many nasal structures are vital to overall support and function of the nose, changes must be made carefully, and in some cases may have to be limited in order to preserve support and nasal function. Dr. Levens will discuss any specific limitations with you during your consultation.

Occasionally, scar tissue formation during the healing phase after surgery can alter the final appearance of the nose. If undesirable characteristics persist or arise after rhinoplasty, a revision procedure may be necessary in a small number of patients.

How much the nasal airways can be opened depends on many factors. Internal structures such as the septum are vital to the support of the nose, and changes must be limited when its support function is threatened. Although the nasal septum can be straightened at the time of surgery the inherent "memory" of cartilage or the effect of scar tissue forces can produce a re-deviation in some patients.

Risks common to all surgical procedures such as bleeding, infection and scar tissue formation occur in a very small percentage of cases. We will give you more detailed information about these and other rare risks in our written information, and encourage you to discuss any that concern you during your consultation.

RECOVERY :

Patients report very little discomfort following nose reshaping surgery. Most describe a sensation of fullness or very mild discomfort, which lasts a day or two. Dr. Levens will prescribe medication for this if necessary for 2-3 days.

Typically, packing is removed 1-2 days after surgery, and the splint is removed within a week of the surgery. You'll be able to see the refinements in your nose immediately after the splint is removed. Some swelling and bruising will develop in the first 24 hours after surgery, but will begin to decrease rapidly by the third day. Any traces of bruising that remain when we remove the tape can easily be covered by makeup.

Rhinoplasty is an out-patient procedure. The typical schedule of recovery is: Bruising and swelling, 5-10 days; return to work & social activity, 7-14 days; aerobic or strenuous activity, 14-21 days. Any aerobic activity that increases your pulse over 100 also increases your blood pressure, and could make you bleed if this activity is resumed too soon after surgery. Though the tip area of your nose will look better immediately after surgery, it will continue to improve in definition for several weeks to months.

FIND OUT MORE:

Dr. Levens will review every aspect of nose reshaping surgery with you during your complimentary consultation. Patient Coordinator Diana Doria will discuss fees, financing plans and scheduling, and answer any additional questions. There is absolutely no obligation to schedule a procedure. To arrange your consultation, please call 954-752-1020.

Read a testimonial about nose reshaping

Dr. Levens has been providing nose reshaping (rhinoplasty) procedures for patients in Boca Raton, Boynton Beach, Coconut Creek, Coral Springs, Davie, Delray Beach, Ft. Lauderdale, Hollywood, Lauderhill, Margate, Miami, North Lauderdale, Parkland, Plantation, Sunrise, Tamarac, West Palm Beach, Wellington, Weston and throughout South Florida since 1989.