Dr. Butler has performed many rhinoplasty operations over the years, with excellent results. Dr. Butler takes pride in making sure the size and shape of your new nose enhance the way you look. Dr. Butler uses Vectra 3D Imaging technology, which allows you to view your face with your “new” nose so that you have a very good idea of what you will look like BEFORE you have surgery.
Typical Timing/Age
After the completion of facial growth which is around 15 years old.
Problem
There are many different nasal deformities. The most important step in treating nasal deformities is a thorough facial analysis and correct diagnosis of the problem.
Procedure
Depending on the deformity, rhinoplasty can be performed open or closed (endonasal). The main difference between an open and closed rhinoplasty is a ~6mm incision across the columella of the nose which allows the nasal skin to lifted up like the hood of a car. Both approaches require internal (endonasal) incisions to access the nasal cartilages and bones. An open approach allows unparalleled visualization of the nasal architecture and more precise control of planned changes. Whether open or closed, most rhinoplasties are done by altering the internal bone and cartilage structure of the nose to achieve the desired nasal-facial balance. This requires both an “artistic” and “structural engineering” mindset because each adjustment of the nasal architecture affects something else. Moreover, the “new” structure must be made strong enough to withstand the forces generated by the healing process and the normal forces exerted on our noses in life. The total operating room time for rhinoplasty depends on the deformity and planned maneuvers to fix it; however, the average time is approximately 2-3 hours.
Rhinoplasty by Dr. Butler
Before
After
View Rhinoplasty Gallery by Dr. Butler
Goal
To improve the appearance and function (airway) of the nose.
Facility
Surgery Center or Hospital
Preparation
Patients should have allergic rhinitis and/or hypertension under optimal control with medications.
Anesthesia
General anesthesia
Recovery
Hospital stay
Most patients go home after surgery and do not require a night in the hospital.
Positioning
After a rhinoplasty, you will want to sleep with your head elevated above your heart for a few days to help reduce the swelling of your nose.
Assistance
You will be able to walk around, feed and bathe yourself. Depending on your pain medication requirements, you may not be able to drive or care for others.
Walking After Surgery
You are encouraged to walk around as much as possible to help reduce the risk of DVT and thromboembolism.
Showering
You may shower immediately following surgery, being careful to keep your nasal dressing dry.
Exercise
1 week for light exercise. 3 weeks for regular exercise. You must avoid any nasal trauma for 8 weeks.
Sex
Wait 1 week because you don’t want to increase your blood pressure during the early healing period.
Work
You may be bruised for 1-2 weeks and you will have an external dressing (splint) on your nose for the first week. If you have a desk job you can return to work as soon as you are comfortable doing so. Most people take 1-2 weeks off work.
Swelling
Usually greatest around 3 days after surgery from which time it starts to subside. Some patients remain a little swollen for 3-6 months.
Bruising
Usually subsides by 2 weeks
Risks & Complications
Bleeding, infection, prolonged swelling, need for revision, nasal airway obstruction, contour irregularities, asymmetry, numbness, complications related to anesthesia.
Performed by: Dr. Butler
