Rhinoplasty Louisville

As a focal point of the face, even the slightest imperfections of the nose can be conspicuous for some. Nose reshaping, technically referred to as rhinoplasty, is a versatile procedure that can address a variety of perceived imperfections on the bridge, tip, or nostrils. Rhinoplasty surgery is available at the Louisville, Kentucky office of plastic surgeon John Derr; we suggest you explore the possibilities of the procedure with him during a personal consultation at our practice. During your consultation, Dr. Derr will discuss all of your available options, and formulate a treatment plan that is tailored to your needs and desires. To learn more about rhinoplasty, please contact our plastic surgery practice today.

Rhinoplasty Candidates

Dr. Derr may deem you a suitable rhinoplasty candidate if you relate to one of the following statements:

• Your nose is disproportionate to the rest of your face.
• There is a bump on the bridge of your nose.
• The tip of your nose is bulbous or droopy.
• Injury or genetics have made your nose asymmetrical.
• Your nostrils are too large or flared.
• Your nose is crooked.
• You have trouble breathing.

The Procedure

Depending on your treatment plan, Dr. Derr will use one of two surgical techniques when performing rhinoplasty at our Louisville practice.

Closed Rhinoplasty

The closed technique is one option offered by Dr. Derr. Once the proper dosage of anesthesia has been administered, Dr. Derr makes several small incisions inside the nostrils. The incisions allow Dr. Derr access to the underlying bone and cartilage. The skin and tissue are separated from the bone and cartilage so that they may be reshaped. Once free of tissue, Dr. Derr reshapes the bone and cartilage into the desired form. After he is satisfied with the results, he closes the incisions with sutures. Some patients may require packing inside the nose or bandaging to aid in the recovery process.

Open Rhinoplasty

The open technique is virtually identical to the closed technique, except for one additional incision. After making the incisions inside the nostrils, Dr. Derr makes a final incision across the underside of the nostril partition, called the columella. The skin is then separated from the underlying bone and cartilage, as with the open technique. The additional incision allows Dr. Derr to gain better access to the tip of the nose. The reshaping process is the same as with the closed technique, though more attention can be focused on the tip since there is better access. Once the reshaping is complete the incisions are closed using sutures and the recovery process can begin.

Even with the open technique, rhinoplasty incisions are inconspicuous and have little chance of scarring. Both techniques yield excellent results after a recovery period of about one to two weeks. During recovery from rhinoplasty, the main concern is nose bleeds. Patients are urged to keep their heads upright and avoid blowing their nose, at least during the initial stages of recovery. Most patients are able to return to their normal routines within a week or two following surgery.

Learn More about Rhinoplasty

If you are considering nose reshaping or still have more questions, contact Dr. John Derr at our Louisville practice to determine if rhinoplasty is right for you. Dr. Derr is known throughout Kentucky for delivering superb rhinoplasty results.

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