Challenges Involved in Rhinoplasty

Historically, many plastic surgeons have discounted the complexities and challenges involved in rhinoplasty and, in particular, revision rhinoplasty. The reality is, rhinoplasty and revision rhinoplasty are among the most difficult procedures to perform while achieving stable, long-term cosmetic and functional results. For instance, many patients interested in nose surgery to remove what is perceived as ‘only a bump’ along the bridge are often mistakenly told the operation involves a ‘simple procedure’ to shave down the hump. In actuality, rhinoplasty that involves removal of a hump (see section on Dorsal Hump Deformity) demands careful planning and delicate surgical technique to achieve optimal results. This is due to the fact that rhinoplasty involving the middle one-third (see section on Nasal Analysis) of the nose (where most bumps exist) can significantly alter the appearance and function of the nose. If careful attention is not given to potential collapse of this area after removal of the bump, patients can develop unwanted pinching of the nose and difficulty breathing.

These undesirable changes are often not seen within the first few months following rhinoplasty when swelling in this area helps camouflage the underlying deformity. After 6-9 months, however, pinching and collapse can begin to appear and often lead to a revision rhinoplasty procedure. Because of false perceptions such as this and others, we have developed the Rhinoplasty Tutorial in an attempt to educate our patients on common topics in rhinoplasty and revision rhinoplasty.

We hope you take the time to review the available topics that are pertinent to your nose and personal decision to undergo cosmetic and/or functional nose reshaping.