Preservation rhinoplasty is a surgical technique in which the nasal structures are preserved as much as possible during rhinoplasty while still achieving the desired cosmetic and functional outcomes. In traditional rhinoplasty, the surgeon may remove or modify significant amounts of nasal cartilage, bone, and other tissues to reshape the nose. In preservation rhinoplasty, the surgeon aims to maintain as much of the natural nasal structure as possible.
Preservation Rhinoplasty Techniques
Your surgeon has various options to offer you the results you’re looking for. We go through a few below.
Tip suture technique
This involves using sutures to reshape the nasal tip without removing cartilage. The surgeon can adjust the shape, size, and projection of the nasal tip by strategically placing and adjusting the sutures.
The tip suture technique preserves the natural nasal structure, has minimal downtime, and has a low risk of complications. Drawbacks to this technique include a limited range of applications, suture-related complications (such as breakage), and variable results depending on the patient and the surgeon’s skill.
Cartilage grafting
In this technique, cartilage grafts are used to augment or support the existing nasal structures. The surgeon may use cartilage from the patient’s body, such as from the ear or rib, or synthetic materials to achieve the desired results.
Rhinoplasty surgery that includes cartilage grafting offers many benefits, including more natural-looking results, less risk of complications, and longer-lasting results. Cartilage grafting can improve breathing by maintaining the structural integrity of the nasal passages.
On the downside, cartilage grafting means longer surgery time, a risk of graft rejection, and isn’t a technique all surgeons are trained to perform.
Dorsal preservation rhinoplasty
This technique involves preserving the natural shape of the nasal bridge while still making subtle adjustments to the overall appearance of the nose. The surgeon may use small, targeted incisions to access the nasal structures and carefully sculpt the tissue to create a more aesthetically pleasing shape.
The advantages of dorsal preservation rhinoplasty include maintaining the natural nasal architecture, fewer complications, a shorter recovery time, and improved breathing.
The procedure requires a skilled surgeon; however, this offers limited effectiveness for some patients, means longer surgical time, and carries a risk of graft rejection as with any cartilage grafting procedure.
Preservation rhinoplasty with osteotomies
This technique combines preservation rhinoplasty with controlled bone fractures to achieve more significant changes to the nasal structure. The surgeon can reshape the nasal bones to improve symmetry and reduce the appearance of bumps or depressions on the nose.
The benefits of preservation rhinoplasty with osteotomies include more precise corrections, improved breathing, long-lasting results, and customizable outcomes.
However, patients have to deal with longer recovery times, a higher risk of complications, and graft rejection.
Steps to reduce risks
To reduce risks during surgery, the surgeon should conduct a thorough preoperative evaluation and provide the patient with preoperative instructions. Appropriate anesthesia should be used, and precise and sterile surgical techniques should be employed to minimize complications.
During the procedure, the patient’s vital signs need to be closely monitored, and postoperative instructions are provided to indicate how to manage any pain or discomfort. Follow-up appointments should be scheduled to monitor the patient’s healing progress and address any concerns or complications that may arise.
Timeline
Preservation rhinoplasty recovery timelines vary depending on the patient’s healing process, the complexity of the procedure, and the techniques used. After surgery, patients can expect to spend a few hours in a recovery room before going home with a caregiver. The first week will be uncomfortable, with swelling and bruising around the nose and eyes, so patients should rest and avoid strenuous activity.
The first month involves avoiding any activity that can impact the nose. After three months, most swelling will have subsided, and normal activities can be resumed. Final results become apparent after a year, during which time patients should attend follow-up appointments with their surgeon.
Getting the best results
To ensure a successful outcome for preservation rhinoplasty, choose an experienced, facial plastic surgeon. During the consultation, be upfront about your medical history and follow pre-surgery instructions to minimize the risk of complications. Arrange for postoperative care and follow all instructions carefully to avoid complications. Attend all follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress and address any concerns or questions.
Choose preservation rhinoplasty with Dr. Richard Rival
Choosing preservation rhinoplasty with Dr. Richard Rival offers several advantages. As a facial plastic surgeon with extensive experience in preservation rhinoplasty, Dr. Rival is committed to preserving the natural structures of the nose to ensure functional and aesthetically pleasing results. His technique minimizes the need for revision surgery and provides long-term durability, giving patients the confidence that their results will last for many years.
Additionally, Dr. Rival’s approach to preservation rhinoplasty results in a more natural-looking outcome that enhances facial balance and improves self-confidence. If you’re looking for “rhinoplasty Toronto,” contact Dr. Richard Rival today.