Maintaining Ethnicity During Rhinoplasty

Ever considering making changes to your nose? Nose re-shaping procedures have become more common but people still have some concerns going in. How can you be so certain your surgeon can re-shape your nose the way you want without losing what makes it a part of you? Many plastic surgeons have limited practice in dealing with non-Caucasian patients. Not everyone’s facial bone structure is the same. African-Americans and Asian-Americans will traditionally look to have their nose augmented whereas Caucasian patients typically opt to have their nose size reduced.

Rhinoplasty, known better as a nose job, is probably the most popular plastic surgery procedure in the world. It’s also typically considered the most difficult. There is so much to consider. Surgeons must work around the skin, cartilage, and bone on a person’s face in detail.

The surgery is versatile in nature and is used to improve both cosmetic and functional issues. A rhinoplasty can change just about anything related to your nose from the shape of the bridge or tip or even changing the size. This can help improve the flow of air through your nose and correct breathing issues. Cosmetic rhinoplasty focuses on achieving a pleasing aesthetic and improved look.

They aim for the most natural looking results post-surgery. The work of expert surgeons can lead to facial harmony. A rhinoplasty can improve your facial balance, minimize signs of age, and post-trauma reconstruction.

Potential candidates should be in good health and also understand the complexity of the surgery. They need to have realistic expectations for it to be a success.

There are many benefits to the patient. Even subtle changes to the nose can lead to a natural look that improves its aesthetic appearance. Psychologically, patients are typically more confident after their rhinoplasty. They will often be seen in more social settings.

Risks

You have to remember that the changes made are permanent and this surgery can have drastic changes to your appearance. As a patient, it’s better to aim for improvement rather than perfect. Sometimes, a large part of the recovery process is mental. Safety is always paramount and board-certified surgeons must approve you.

Preparation

Before undergoing surgery, you will need to undergo a physical exam and take extensive photos of your nose. Your surgeon will have to go through your medical history to ensure the procedure will be safe for you. Also, you will need to be as detailed as possible when discussing your expectations. Some patients may feel self-conscious at times but it’s crucial that you share as much as possible. Sometimes, other facial changes can change the way your nose appears. For example, a smaller chin can sometimes make your nose appear bigger.

Procedure

This is an outpatient procedure, however, you should not underestimate its complexity. Small incisions are made either inside your columella or nostrils where cartilage grafts are utilized to re-shape your nose to the desired effect. At this point, bones are also adjusted by either filing, breaking, or cutting them. The surgeon must be extra careful to ensure that your nose remains functional, even with a cosmetic rhinoplasty.

Recovery

Following their surgery, patients typically spend 1-2 weeks before turning to normal activities such as work and light exercise. You should definitely avoid any sort of intense physical activity involving bending or lifting for the following several weeks. After 5 days, the dressing on your face gets removed. You will typically be prescribed medication to help with the swelling and bruising post-surgery. Icing the inflamed areas is also advised. The swelling will generally decrease with time. However, the residual swelling typically continues for over half a year.

Ethnic Rhinoplasty

Surgeons that are skilled in this procedure typically work with patients of Asian, Latin, or African descent that are aiming to change their ethnic characteristics. However, it is important to note that a surgeon with experience in shaping the noses of African-American patients may not have the desired skills that are needed for rhinoplasty on an Asian or Latin nose. People are different. This highlights the importance of your consultation visit as you can discuss all your needs and concerns going in.

Ethnic rhinoplasty is cosmetic surgery that improves your facial aesthetic while still holding onto your ethnic traits. Surgeons can reduce the length or width of your nose, improve the facial balance, make the nose more defined or pronounced, and also reduce the width of “flaring” nostrils. It really is up to you! Some surgeons may even advise additional cosmetic facial surgery to maintain your facial balance.

Conclusion

Consider a rhinoplasty consultation before making any serious decisions. Get to know Dr. Louis DeJoseph, a board-certified surgeon operating in Atlanta, GA. You can learn a lot of information from his site on ethnic rhinoplasty and how rhinoplasty can benefit you. Preserving your ethnic traits and achieving your desired aesthetic is a key goal of any rhinoplasty and get the recommendations you need to make the best decision possible. Remember, not all surgeons specialize in this. If you’re someone that doesn’t have Caucasian facial traits, you should find someone with experience with the type of cosmetic surgery you desire. Please visit his site for an ethnic rhinoplasty specialist in the Atlanta area.

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