Rhinoplasty: Achieving Harmony Between Function and Beauty
Function vs. Beauty
The nose represents a prominent aesthetic highlight in the middle of the face. Ideally, it should blend with the surrounding facial structures in perfect balance. It should not stand out, either because of size, shape, or asymmetry. When people look at you, they should notice and maintain their focus on your eyes and mouth as you are speaking. The nose should not detract from either.
Aside from its aesthetic role, the nose has a very important function. It serves to warm and humidify the air that we breathe. To appreciate this function, think of times when you have been unable to breathe normally, such as during a bad cold. Deviation of the septum is a common problem that can be addressed surgically and does not generally change the outward appearance of the nose. Some patients, however, have deviation of the outside of the nose because of congenital problems or a history of trauma. If this deviation is not repaired at the time of surgery for aesthetics, the breathing that one is able to achieve after surgery will be suboptimal.
Thus the old adage, ” a nose that looks good often breathes well,” certainly applies.
It is Important for Your Nose to “Work” Properly
We can reshape the nose, correcting airway issues and visible asymmetries on the outside at the same time. This provides the patient a nicely shaped, symmetric nose that has excellent function. There may be desire on the patient’s part to have a “smaller nose.” While this is often achievable, there is a limit as to how small it should be for both form and function. If the size of the nose is reduced too much, you begin to lose function permanently, which can only be repaired with secondary reconstructive surgery. Also, a nose that is too small for one’s facial features brings them out of balance just as much as one that is too large. In addition, it will have the look of a “done” nose. Also of critical importance is adequate support; long term, without such support, the nose will begin to twist and collapse, contributing to the “dome” appearance.
Professional Results
Our goal at Center For Aesthetic Surgery is to achieve a result that is symmetric, long lasting, fits the face, and allows you to breathe well. Various techniques may need to be employed. Sometimes, we are able to reach our goals with incisions hidden inside the nose with minimal swelling. At other times, a small incision may be needed across the base of the nose, which is imperceptible. This allows us to work directly on the framework, placing small, precise pieces of carved cartilage into areas of the nose that are indented or lacking in support. We can use cartilage from the crooked portion of the septum (much like recycling), or occasionally from the back of the ear (without changing its shape or affecting hearing), or from the rib (through a small incision hidden below the breast). We prefer to use your own cartilage, rather than cadaver cartilage or synthetic materials because of the lower risks of infection and rejection.
If you are contemplating Rhinoplasty contact us at Center For Aesthetic Surgery in Colleyville, TX today!
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