This patient has suffered trauma to her nose as a teenager. She was bothered by the concavity and asymmetry created by her broken nose. She also had difficulty breathing through the right side of her nose. Insurance covered a portion of her surgery.

SURGERY OF THE NOSE

Surgery of the nose is one of the most common of all plastic surgery procedures. The best candidates are people who are looking to improve upon the appearance of their nose. If you're in good physical health, emotionally stable, and have a realistic expectation of what can be achieved, then you may be an excellent candidate.

YOUR PERSONAL CONSULTATION:

Dr. Hoffman's nurse will take a complete medical history. Have you had any previous nose surgery or an injury to your nose? Even if it was several years ago, it is relevant. Mention whether you have allergies or difficulty breathing through your nose. The more information you provide, the better your care and treatment will be. During your consultation, Dr. Hoffman asks you to point out what bothers you about your nose. He will also take photographs of your nose and face, which allow him to analyze your nose and its proportion to your facial features. These photographs will be reviewed with you, and together you will formulate a plan for your nose surgery.

THE PROCEDURE:

Working from inside of the nose, Dr. Hoffman carefully modifies and reshapes the bones and the cartilage. A bump can be reduced or totally eliminated. The sides of the nose can be brought closer together to make the nose narrower. The tip can be made smaller and also lifted to enhance the angle between the nose and the upper lip. Sometimes, the nostrils also need to be reduced in size. Unbalanced, crooked, or curved noses can be made straighter and more symmetrical.

After surgery, a splint is placed on the nose to maintain the new shape and to protect it. Dr. Hoffman rarely finds it necessary to pack the nose, in the majority of cases this can be accomplished by suturing techniques. You will be up and around within a day after surgery and any discomfort you feel can be controlled by medications. Cold compresses on your eyes can reduce swelling and bruising, and it is important to keep your head elevated while sleeping. The splint is typically removed within a week. Bruising around your eyes start to fade within a couple of days and disappears completely within a week to 10 days. Most people can return to work within a week or so and makeup can be used to cover any bruises. Your final result is a permanent improvement, which will last the rest of your life.