Dr. Apo M.D. 5/31/24 Dr. Apo M.D. 5/31/24

Will I Be Able to Breathe Better After Rhinoplasty?

Facial plastic surgery can be used for more than just cosmetic purposes. Rhinoplasty is a plastic surgery that can both improve the appearance of the nose and correct any functional issues as well. While most people consider rhinoplasty for the aesthetic benefits it can offer, reconstructive facial plastic surgeons are also trained in how to improve the function of the nose.

Lucky for you, rhinoplasty actually can improve your breathing, especially if you are struggling with any of the 3 things below:

Deviated Septum

One of the most common functional reasons for rhinoplasty is to correct a deviated septum, a condition where the nasal septum (the bone and cartilage that divide the nasal cavity) is off-center or crooked, causing breathing difficulties and even the nose to look crooked.

Enlarged Turbinates

The turbinates are structures inside the nose that can become enlarged and obstruct airflow. A turbinate reduction can be performed during rhinoplasty to improve breathing and aid in a better night’s sleep.

Nasal Valve Collapse

The nasal valves are the narrowest part of the nasal airway, and their collapse can cause significant breathing issues. Rhinoplasty can reinforce or reconstruct these valves to enhance airflow. Often, collapse can happen if someone has had too many cosmetic nasal surgeries.

Addressing Your Rhinoplasty Needs

People often decide on rhinoplasty to improve both the appearance of their nose and its functionality. Surgeons can address aesthetic concerns while simultaneously correcting any structural problems that impede breathing.

If you are most concerned with your breathing capabilities, have a conversation with a rhinoplasty specialist right away to address your goals. Reconstructive rhinoplasty will help you to improve your breathing, sleeping, and even smell with very little maintenance or upkeep.

Trust Dr. Apostolakis, Facial Plastic Surgeon, to Restore Your Confidence

Spend this year feeling confident and secure in yourself and your appearance with Dr. Apostolakis Rhinoplasty Specialist. Goof facial plastic surgery allows the overall beauty of the face to shine through, and a Rhinoplasty, also known as a nose job procedure, can help improve the nose’s appearance and overall nasal breathing.

Whether you’ve always wanted to make a change or are considering a nose job or other facial plastic surgery in Austin, our team at Louis William Apostolakis, M.D. is led by our board-certified surgeon who holds years of experience providing Rhinoplasty in Austin, TX, and helping to improve the appearance of faces and overall quality of life.

Dr. Apo M.D. 3/28/24 Dr. Apo M.D. 3/28/24

What is the Process to Perform Rhinoplasty?

Are there aspects of your appearance that you’ve always wished you could change? This is true for many people. Luckily, facial plastic surgery is becoming more widely accepted and accessible for the average individual. This makes achieving your dream look so much more possible than it may have been for previous generations.

If you’ve been curious about making alterations to your appearance with a rhinoplasty, consider a board-certified facial plastic surgeon with ample years of experience and testimonials to ensure your goals will be reached and successful. Keep reading to better understand the rhinoplasty procedure and how it may improve your overall appearance.

The Rhinoplasty Process

Rhinoplasty, also commonly known as a nose job, is a mostly surgical procedure that adjusts the appearance of the nose. There are many benefits to a rhinoplasty, such as improving your breathing and sleep schedule, and can even make you more confident. When deciding on a rhinoplasty procedure, you will usually begin with:

Research to find the rhinoplasty surgeon right for you

Researching the right facial plastic surgeon is crucial in your rhinoplasty process. You want to know if the surgeon is the right fit for you and your needs. Explore their credentials and testimonials to ensure that your goals can come to life in their office.

Discuss your procedure

After you discuss your goals during a consultation and book your surgery, your surgeon will make you aware of your surgery plan. They will discuss the use of anesthesia, what alterations will be made to help you achieve your look, where incisions will occur, and approximately how long the surgery will be, and what you can expect for healing time.

Be mindful of aftercare

Rhinoplasty is a fairly quick procedure and does not require an overnight stay after the operation. This means you will have to plan transportation needs and supervision for the first 24 to 48 hours. There will be some pain after your rhinoplasty, therefore medications will be given to help minimize pain and combat possible infections. Be sure you have a trusted loved one near you to help you in the early days of your healing so that your new nose stays clean and can heal properly!

Trust Dr. Apostolakis, Facial Plastic Surgeon, to Restore Your Confidence

Dr. Apo M.D. 3/25/24 Dr. Apo M.D. 3/25/24

How to Rejuvenate Your Look and Boost Self-Esteem with Facial Enhancements

Did you know that a stressful workplace and lifestyle can impact your appearance in the same way aging can? Added stressors on our bodies definitely can alter the way we look. If you are looking to regain a more youthful appearance, facial plastic surgery options can offer you both surgical and noninvasive procedures to rejuvenate your look and help you feel more confident.

Goal Setting and Consulting

When considering facial rejuvenation, it’s best to find a board-certified facial plastic surgery that can help you achieve your desired appearance goals. Facial plastic surgeons with experience in facelifts and Botox will have a wide variety of previous work examples for you to look over and consider before choosing a surgery. Facial plastic surgeons want you to feel and look your best. Always be upfront with your provider about your goals and what you hope to get out of your facial plastic surgery.

Non-invasive options

Many people believe the only way to a flawless appearance is through surgery that takes days, or weeks, to heal from. Modern plastic surgery has come a long way. Today experienced surgeons can offer plenty of noninvasive facial plastic surgery techniques to help you achieve your appearance goals. Some noninvasive forms of facial plastic surgery include Botox and filler, which can smooth out wrinkles and add more volume under the skin to reduce sagging.

Customized Facial Plastic Surgery

With the right surgeon, you can achieve your goals easier than you thought possible. A specialized facial plastic surgeon will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your appearance and goals. This plan may include a combination of non-invasive treatments as discussed above, and surgical procedures, like rhinoplasty, facelifts, or eyelid lifts. Customizing facial plastic surgery plans can bring you to your desired results best for your face structure and skin needs.

Trust Dr. Apostolakis, Facial Plastic Surgeon, to Restore Your Confidence

Dr. Apo M.D. 2/21/24 Dr. Apo M.D. 2/21/24

3 Medically Appropriate Reasons to Have Facial Plastic Surgery

Facial plastic surgery is not just used to change our appearance for aesthetic reasons. There are often medical reasons to pursue facial plastic surgery, such as rhinoplasty. Board-certified facial plastic surgeons in Austin agree that facial plastic surgery may be necessary to restore full functionality or appearance of facial features that have experienced physical trauma or impairments. The following are 3 medically appropriate reasons to have facial plastic surgery:

Difficulties Breathing

Did you know that if you have a hard time breathing or struggle with snoring this is a medical condition that can actually be treated with rhinoplasty? That’s right, a deviated septum is a medical condition that causes the nasal airways to be blocked to some extent, making the people affected struggle with breathing difficulties, sense of smell, snoring, and sleeping through the night. Rhinoplasty is a facial plastic surgery procedure that can repair a deviated septum by realigning the cartilage inside the nose, therefore allowing air to pass through more easily.

Facial Fracture Repair with Facial Plastic Surgery:

After accidents, individuals may experience trauma to the face and facial features. The nose, cheekbones, eyes, and jaw can all be impacted by physical trauma due to accidents. Facial plastic surgery can help to repair and minimize damage from accidents, restoring normal alignment and function of facial features. This can also help to improve the cosmetic appearance of the face as the facial features should heal to their original state.

Treating Birth Defects

Due to genetics, our appearance is largely out of our control. This means many individuals may be born with facial defects that can hinder their everyday functioning and confidence. Cleft lips are a birth defect that can be treated with facial plastic surgery. Highly skilled facial plastic surgeons can restore the normal appearance of the lip with little to no scarring.

Trust Dr. Apostolakis, Facial Plastic Surgeon, to Restore Your Confidence

Spend this year feeling confident and secure in yourself and your appearance with Dr. Apostolakis Rhinoplasty Specialist. A good nose allows the overall beauty of the face to shine through, and a Rhinoplasty, also known as a nose job procedure, can help improve the nose’s appearance and overall nasal breathing.

Whether you’ve always wanted to make a change or are considering a nose job in Austin, our team at Louis William Apostolakis, M.D. is led by our board-certified surgeon who holds years of experience providing Rhinoplasty in Austin, TX, and helping to improve the appearance of faces and overall quality of life.

Dr. Apo M.D. 9/1/23 Dr. Apo M.D. 9/1/23

How Long Will I Be in Pain After Rhinoplasty Surgery Is Over?

Rhinoplasty recovery is far less inconvenient than most people think. Believe it or not, rhinoplasty is a hardly painful procedure. Of course, pain may vary from person to person, but Dr. Apostolakis in Austin, Texas makes sure your rhinoplasty is smooth, safe, and comfortable.

Pain at any intensity after rhinoplasty will usually last for only 36 to 72 hours but may last longer if the nose is bumped or injured further. Your nose may remain tender or sensitive to touch, however, for up to three months. This is generally common after rhinoplasty or nose surgery. The level of pain and how long it lasts depends on multiple factors. Individual pain tolerance, the length of the surgery, and the specific rhinoplasty techniques used during the procedure can all impact the healing process of rhinoplasty.

Managing Pain after Rhinoplasty

Slight pain or discomfort after a rhinoplasty is common but pain levels depend on your pain tolerance. In order to make your post-rhinoplasty procedure more comfortable, Dr. Apostolakis will have you take pain pills the first night after your surgery. After your rhinoplasty, your nose will be taped and splinted for one week. Bruises usually will occur under the eyes and last 7 to 14 days. We do not pack the nose, you will be able to breathe through your nose after the surgery, and will not have to endure the pain and suffering of packing and its removal.

If severe pain after rhinoplasty persists for longer than 48 hours, contact your surgeon immediately, as something more complicated may be making your healing process more difficult. It is important to only take the pain medication your surgeon prescribes. Avoid anti-inflammatory over-the-counter pain medications as they may interfere with the healing process.

Swelling and Bruising are Common

The first few days after your rhinoplasty is when you are likely to experience the most discomfort, swelling, and bruising. While uncomfortable, this means your nose is healing. If you are eager for faster recovery, applying ice to the bruised and swollen tissue will help to reduce the swelling. It is recommended that your nose should be iced as much as possible in the first 48 hours. To help avoid swelling and bruising, sleeping upright propped by two or three pillows will help the blood not pool within the nose. After surgery, Dr. Apostolakis will provide you with further recovery tips to ease recovery.

Facial Plastic Surgery with Dr. Apo

Have signs of aging or abnormalities in your appearance led to feelings of unhappiness? Facial plastic surgery could help resolve your concerns and create an appearance you feel proud to show off.

Dr. Apo is a leading provider of facial plastic surgery in Austin, TX. His procedures include popular aesthetic treatments like rhinoplasty, otoplasty, face lifts, neck lifts, and more. Contact us online or call our office to get your plastic surgery transformation started!

Dr. Apo M.D. 8/30/23 Dr. Apo M.D. 8/30/23

Are There Any Serious Risks Related to Having Rhinoplasty Surgery?

Rhinoplasty, commonly known as nose surgery, or a “nose job,” is one of the most common cosmetic procedures performed by Dr. Apostolakis. Rhinoplasty can be performed for cosmetic reasons, such as to change the shape of the nose, or for functional reasons, such as to improve breathing. This complex and delicate surgery has become increasingly common over the years; however, like any surgical procedure, rhinoplasty carries both potential benefits and risks. It’s important to be aware of the potential risks of rhinoplasty before deciding on nose surgery.

Bleeding and Infection

Bleeding and infection is a common concern among rhinoplasty patients. While infection and severe bleeding are rare, it is not unheard of for plastic surgery patients to experience them. Being aware of this complication, Dr. Apostolakis knows the steps to take to minimize these risks and ensure your safety. For instance, before your rhinoplasty operation, Dr. Apostolakis will ask you to cease using medications, anti-inflammatories, and some supplements. Discontinuing the use of these will decrease your risk of bleeding after surgery. To prevent infection, you may take an antibiotic before surgery. Antibiotics will also be offered after surgery for you to continue as your rhinoplasty heals.

Breathing Complications

Functional rhinoplasty is a common surgery to help patients breathe better. Cosmetic rhinoplasties usually are used to make the nose smaller, which may come at the expense of nose function. Surgery may weaken the nasal septum and result in poor breathing, snoring, and sleeping issues. As a member of the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, as well as a fellow of The American College of Surgeons, Dr. Apostolakis is trusted to improve the appearance of your nose without sacrificing your nose function. Not only will your breathing be unchanged after rhinoplasty, but in many cases, your breathing may be enhanced after surgery.

Rhinoplasty scars

Some individuals voice fears of slow or poor wound healing after a rhinoplasty, which can result in noticeable scars or delayed recovery. These fears are valid. Poor scarring can lead to complications and aesthetic dislikes. Aggressive scar tissue inside the nose can look bulky, which can result in an irregular nasal contour. Visible and unsightly scars outside of the nose detract from your overall appearance and make it clear that you had a nose job performed. Knowing the concern about rhinoplasty scarring, Dr. Apostolakis’ attention to detail makes sure cuts and incisions are properly healing on time to give you the results you want.

Facial Plastic Surgery with Dr. Apo

Have signs of aging or abnormalities in your appearance led to feelings of unhappiness? Facial plastic surgery could help resolve your concerns and create an appearance you feel proud to show off.
Dr. Apo is a leading provider of facial plastic surgery in Austin, TX. His procedures include popular aesthetic treatments like rhinoplasty, otoplasty, face lifts, neck lifts, and more. Contact us online or call our office to get your plastic surgery transformation started!

Dr. Apo M.D. 6/28/23 Dr. Apo M.D. 6/28/23

What Is Rhinoplasty, and Who Can Benefit from the Process?

If you’ve ever felt self-conscious about how your nose looks, you may have considered rhinoplasty surgery.

More commonly referred to as a “nose job,” rhinoplasty is the only way to permanently alter the appearance of your nose and resolve issues like asymmetry or a downturned nasal tip. Rhinoplasty can also be used to correct a deviated septum and resolve disordered breathing during sleep.

A nose job can offer many benefits, from improved aesthetics to better breathing. If you’re curious whether it’s the right option for you, it will be helpful to learn what factors make someone a good candidate.

What Is a Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty is a plastic surgical procedure that can improve the appearance of the nose or resolve certain breathing difficulties. Rhinoplasties are performed by removing or repositioning the cartilage, bones, and other tissues within the nose to alter both the internal and external structure.

A rhinoplasty can be either “closed” or “open” in nature. Closed rhinoplasties are performed entirely within the nasal passages and show no external evidence of the procedure. By contrast, open rhinoplasties are performed on the outside of the nose and involve small incisions in discreet areas around the nasal structure.

Factors that Make an Ideal Candidate for Rhinoplasty

Would you benefit from a rhinoplasty procedure? If you have any of the following imperfections or abnormalities, a rhinoplasty could help you enhance your appearance and experience better breathing.

Downturned Nasal Tip

A downturned nasal tip leads many people to seek rhinoplasty procedures. As part of the procedure, a surgeon can shave down the cartilage within your nasal tip to make it smaller. They can then manipulate the remaining tissue into more of an upwards position to create an attractive, slightly elevated nasal tip.

Large Nasal Hump

A large hump on the nasal bridge is one of the most common reasons people get rhinoplasties. This elevation is usually due to excess bone in the area. With a rhinoplasty, this bone can be shaved down to make the bridge more straight or sloped, depending on your desired outcome.

Asymmetry

Almost everyone has some level of asymmetry to their nasal structure — it’s just a matter of how pronounced it is. If you have a very noticeable asymmetry, you may benefit from a nose job. A rhinoplasty can manipulate the bones and cartilage to give your nose a more even look.

Deviated Septum

Another way to benefit from rhinoplasty is by having a deviated septum corrected. People with deviated septums often struggle with labored breathing or sleep disorders because their septum strays off to one side. Rhinoplasty procedures can correct this and improve respiration both while awake and asleep.

Should You Get a Rhinoplasty?

You may benefit from a rhinoplasty procedure if you have a deviated septum, large nasal hump, or downturned tip. However, the only way to find out whether such a procedure is right for you is by consulting with a plastic surgeon, who can assess your nasal structure and develop a unique treatment plan that addresses any imperfections.

Dr. Apo M.D. 5/24/23 Dr. Apo M.D. 5/24/23

Is Rhinoplasty Permanent or Do I Have to Repeat the Process Annually?

Rhinoplasty is a type of surgery that changes the shape and structure of your nose. If you dislike the appearance of your nose or you have medical problems with your natural anatomy, rhinoplasty could be a solution.

Many rhinoplasty candidates wonder whether their results will be permanent. Here’s what you should know about getting a nose job.

How Rhinoplasty Works

During rhinoplasty surgery, your surgeon alters the position, size, and shape of various pieces of tissue and cartilage in your nose. There are also different types of rhinoplasty.

For instance, open rhinoplasty involves opening up your nose from the outside to reposition internal structures. Closed rhinoplasty, by contrast, is nearly invisible after surgery; the surgeons operate internally without opening up the outside of your nose.

The type and method of your procedure will depend on your desired aesthetic, current nose structure, and breathing problems. Your surgeon will determine the best approach for you with these factors in mind.

Why Patients Get Rhinoplasty

There are numerous reasons patients may decide to get nose jobs. Some reasons are personal and cosmetic, while others are related to breathing and the function of the nose.

Patients with very large, bulbous, or bumpy noses may not like the way their noses affect the appearance of their faces. The current beauty standard involves slender, even, and proportionally small noses.

Other patients may have deviated septums, which cause trouble breathing. In these cases, the center cartilage in their noses may be off-center and interfere with airflow. Breathing problems can be frustrating and, in some instances, unhealthy over long periods of time.

Are Results Permanent?

No matter what your reasons for getting rhinoplasty are, you probably want to know: are results long-lasting? The short answer is yes. Unless you are unhappy with your rhinoplasty results after your nose fully heals, your results will be permanent. Repeat surgeries are not required to maintain your new nose.

Some patients choose to undergo rhinoplasty revision, where a new surgeon will correct the work of a previous surgeon. This is only done in extreme cases, though, including trauma to the nose.

The recovery process does require the use of stents and other fixtures, but these are temporary. Once your nose has healed, your results are there to stay.

Will I Like My Results?

According to research, chances are that you will indeed like your results. Between 80 and 90 percent of rhinoplasty patients are satisfied with the appearance of their noses after surgery.

Cosmetic surgeons undergo a lot of training to practice their craft. When you go in for nose surgery, you can trust that your surgeon knows what they are doing. They have likely delivered satisfactory results to hundreds, if not thousands, of patients before you.

Prepare for Rhinoplasty: Realistic Expectations

Remember that nose jobs can be great confidence boosters, and they look different on everyone. So make sure to come in with realistic expectations to ensure the best experience. If you’re looking to change the appearance or function of your nose, rhinoplasty could be an option for you.

Dr. Apo M.D. 4/28/23 Dr. Apo M.D. 4/28/23

5 Examples of the Positive Effects of Rhinoplasty

One of the most popular cosmetic surgical procedures is rhinoplasty. Rhinoplasty surgery aims to improve the appearance of the nose by removing or repositioning the bones and cartilage.

While many people look at rhinoplasty as a strictly aesthetic procedure, it can actually offer a wide variety of benefits. The following are just five examples of the positive effects you can experience after rhinoplasty surgery:

1. Enhanced Appearance

The most common reason that people seek rhinoplasty is to enhance their appearance. Many people are unhappy with the way that their nose looks due to any of the following factors:

Asymmetry
Prominent nasal bump
Abnormal nostril size
Crooked nasal bridge
Unbalanced nasal width

The biggest benefit of rhinoplasty is that it can resolve these concerns and more. During your rhinoplasty, the cartilage and bones within your nose will be altered to enhance the nasal structure. This creates a more appealing nose shape that flatters your overall facial structure.

2. Easier Breathing

Rhinoplasty is generally thought of as a cosmetic procedure, but for some patients, it can provide health benefits like better breathing. This is often the case for people who have a deviated septum.

A deviated septum is a common malformation of the nasal structure that causes the thin wall between your nostrils to deviate to one side or the other. This can impact your breathing and cause chronic congestion. Rhinoplasty surgery can straighten the septum and help you breathe easier.

3. Better Sleep

Another positive effect of rhinoplasty is improved sleep. This is especially true for people who have a deviated septum or small nostrils. A rhinoplasty can straighten your septum or enlarge the opening of your nostrils to allow for easier breathing when you sleep. This could resolve certain cases of sleep apnea or disordered sleep breathing.

4. More Confidence

A major positive outcome of rhinoplasty is the boost in confidence that patients feel afterward. When you have aesthetic concerns like asymmetry, enlarged nostrils, or a pronounced nasal bump, you may suffer from low self-esteem or feel self-conscious.

Rhinoplasty can successfully correct these issues and provide a boost in self-esteem and give you more confidence in your appearance. In fact, many people report that they feel more comfortable having their photograph taken after their rhinoplasty procedure because they are proud of how good they look.

5. A Younger Look

One of the more overlooked benefits of rhinoplasty is that it can produce a more youthful appearance. Some nasal concerns or abnormalities can give your face an aged appearance. These include a large nasal hump on the bridge or an elongated nasal tip.

Rhinoplasty can address these issues and create a younger-looking nasal structure that enhances your overall appearance. Elevating the nasal tip and reducing the bridge may be necessary to achieve this goal.

Experience Rhinoplasty for Yourself

When you struggle with common concerns like an enlarged bridge or pronounced bump, you may benefit from a rhinoplasty procedure. From increased confidence to smoother breathing, rhinoplasty can provide a wide array of positive effects that improve your quality of life.

Dr. Apo M.D. 3/22/23 Dr. Apo M.D. 3/22/23

How Will Rhinoplasty Help Me Be Less Self-Conscious?

Feeling self-conscious about the size or shape of your nose can inhibit you from enjoying life to the fullest. A rhinoplasty, also called a “nose job,” can help restore your confidence. The surgery may not make all of your self-doubts disappear, but it is a highly effective procedure that can help you meet your aesthetic goals.

What Can Rhinoplasty Do?

Rhinoplasty is one of the most commonly performed cosmetic surgeries. Some people get rhinoplasty to correct breathing issues, and others opt to have surgery to change their looks.

There are limits to how much rhinoplasty can change your nose, and a skilled surgeon understands those limits. The final result of rhinoplasty surgery depends on several factors, including the condition of your skin, the size of your nose, and your age.

In many cases, rhinoplasty can:

Straighten the septum (the interior part of the nose that separates the nostrils)
Alter the shape of the tip of the nose
Alter the shape of the nostrils
Increase or reduce overall nose size
Change the bridge of the nose

Whether you are unhappy with the look of your nose because of an injury or because you find its natural appearance unappealing in some way, rhinoplasty may offer the solutions you are looking for.

Can Rhinoplasty Improve Confidence?

Unfortunately, the pressure to look a certain way has never been more intense. Learning that self-confidence is not based on physical looks is an important lesson everyone could benefit from. However, it is completely possible to feel confident on the inside and still be unhappy with the way your nose looks.

If a person is aware of the limits of rhinoplasty and is realistic about possible changes, rhinoplasty can help them feel less self-conscious. A study by the American Psychological Association found that cosmetic surgery patients with reasonable expectations for their rhinoplasties felt less anxious, were healthier, and had more self-esteem post-surgery.

Getting elective cosmetic surgery of any kind is a personal decision. Some patients have a history of being bullied for their looks, while others simply don’t feel the size or shape of their nose fits their face well.

A positive outcome begins with an in-depth consultation with an experienced cosmetic surgeon. Any surgeon who promises miracles, drastic changes, or “bargain” surgeries should probably be avoided.

Is Rhinoplasty Right for You?

Rhinoplasty can level the playing field for some people, especially those on career paths where “good looks” are considered to be a priority. The surgery won’t address underlying emotional difficulties, but if your self-consciousness stems from your nose’s appearance alone, a rhinoplasty could help you feel more confident.

The best rhinoplasty results are those that look natural and barely noticeable. You will notice that the unwanted hump on your nose is smaller or a long nose tip is now shorter, but most people will only notice that your nose looks natural and in proportion to your face. Not being noticed for your nose may be the biggest confidence booster of all.

Dr. Apo M.D. 2/27/23 Dr. Apo M.D. 2/27/23

Top 5 Milestones of Healing that Typically Occur After Rhinoplasty

If you have ever wanted to change the way your nose looks, you’re not alone. Many people want to alter the shape, size, or structure of their nose to enhance their appearance. The nose tends to be the focal point of the face, and if there are certain imperfections in the nasal structure, they can distract from your other facial features.

While contouring with cosmetics can give the illusion of a different nose shape, rhinoplasty is the only way to change the way your nose looks permanently. For this reason, rhinoplasty is one of the most popular plastic surgical procedures in the world.

The procedure works by removing or repositioning the bones and cartilage in your nose to change the way it looks.

When seeking a rhinoplasty procedure, most patients are concerned about the recovery process. Find out what it’s like to heal from rhinoplasty by reading about the 5 milestones that occur during the recovery process.

1. Returning Home After Surgery

The first milestone in your rhinoplasty aftercare journey is returning home after surgery. Most rhinoplasty procedures are performed on an outpatient basis, which means that you can return home the same day as your procedure.

You will be monitored for several hours in an aftercare area before being discharged to return home. This is to ensure that you wake up fully from anesthesia and feel well after surgery.
In some cases, you may need to stay overnight for monitoring after your rhinoplasty. This is rare and typically applies to patients who are getting extensive procedures or have extenuating circumstances.

2. Removal of Sutures and Dressing

Once you’ve returned home after your rhinoplasty, the next milestone in your recovery will be having your dressings removed.

You will have sutures, bandaging, and potentially a small splint in place when you go home from your surgery. These provide added support to the vulnerable skin, cartilage, and bones of your nose during the first few days of recovery.

About one week after your treatment, your sutures and bandaging can come off. If you have a splint in place, it may need to remain for another week for additional support.

3. Reduced Swelling and Bruising

After a rhinoplasty procedure, it is normal to have some swelling and bruising around your nose. The swelling and bruising are due to the manipulation of your nasal tissues during the surgical process.

These typically last for one to two weeks after your procedure. When the swelling and bruising begin to subside, you will know that you’re reaching the next milestone in your healing process.

4. Returning to Exercise and Other Activities

The cartilage, bones, and other tissues in your nose are delicate. When your rhinoplasty is complete, these tissues will be especially vulnerable for several weeks. For about four to six weeks after your rhinoplasty, you will need to avoid strenuous activities that could cause stress or trauma to the nasal tissues.

Strenuous activities include exercise, contact sports, heavy lifting, and other similar tasks. About one month after your procedure, your surgeon will evaluate your healing process to determine whether you can resume your normal activities again. If you are cleared for exercise, you have reached another milestone in your healing journey.

5. Seeing Your Final Results

The last milestone of your rhinoplasty journey will be seeing your final results. It takes several weeks for swelling and bruising to completely subside and for your nasal tissues to settle into their new placement.

For most patients, final results are visible in six to eight weeks. Once you have reached this point, you have completed all of the milestones in your rhinoplasty recovery.

Dr. Apo M.D. 1/30/23 Dr. Apo M.D. 1/30/23

Will Rhinoplasty Help Me Get More Rest at Night?

Struggles with nasal breathing are a clear contributor to insomnia and sleep disturbances. Those with a deviated septum, nasal obstruction, or other structural abnormalities in the nose may not be able to breathe easily, which could affect their ability to eat, sleep, and exercise normally.

Rhinoplasty offers the opportunity to resolve nasal obstructions and other concerns that may affect your quality of life.

What Is Rhinoplasty?

Often referred to as a nose job, rhinoplasty changes the shape and structure of the patient’s nose.

While cosmetic rhinoplasty is an aesthetic operation that aims to restore balance to the face and improve the overall shape of the nose, functional rhinoplasty focuses on shaping the interior nasal passages and improving breathing.

What Medical Concerns Does Functional Rhinoplasty Fix?

Those seeking functional rhinoplasty often have nasal passages that may be too narrow, crooked, or misaligned. While some patients suffer from these concerns from birth onward, others develop misalignment or narrowing of their septum due to trauma.

When patients undergo a functional rhinoplasty solely to straighten the septum, the procedure is also called septoplasty.

Another form of functional rhinoplasty is a turbinate reduction. Those with chronic allergies and sinus infections may experience swelling and enlargement of their turbinates. Enlarged turbinates can restrict airflow in the nasal passages, making it difficult to breathe through the nose.

Functional Rhinoplasty and Sleep Apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea occurs as a result of restricted airways during sleep and causes snoring, fatigue, and breathing pauses. Those with chronic nasal congestion are much more likely to develop obstructive sleep apnea due to narrow nasal passages.

While the most common treatment for sleep apnea is using a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine while sleeping, sleep apnea rhinoplasty is an effective solution for patients with nasal structural abnormalities. For the right candidate, sleep apnea rhinoplasty is more effective than a CPAP for reducing sleep apnea.

Can Rhinoplasty Improve My Sleep if I Don’t Have Sleep Apnea?

If you commonly experience nighttime nasal congestion, sinus infections, sinus pressure headaches, and snoring, clearing your nasal passages through rhinoplasty can alleviate your symptoms and prevent them from progressing into sleep apnea.

Snoring is a common symptom of poor breathing while you sleep, so those who snore regularly and loudly should seek the advice of a healthcare professional to determine whether they have a nasal obstruction.

While there are numerous causes of nighttime breathing issues, a functional rhinoplasty offers an effective solution for people who experience poor sleep because of nasal obstruction.

Can Functional Rhinoplasty Change the Shape of My Nose?

Every rhinoplasty is customized to the individual needs of the patient. A surgeon can tailor functional rhinoplasty to address your specific obstruction type and ultimate aesthetic goals.

Many patients choose to enhance their nose’s function and form in one procedure. A qualified, board-certified plastic surgeon can improve your facial balance and enhance your appearance by combining cosmetic and functional rhinoplasty into one surgery.

The benefits of rhinoplasty extend beyond aesthetics. For those suffering from decreased nasal airflow, functional rhinoplasty can improve their quality of life.

Dr. Apo M.D. 12/16/22 Dr. Apo M.D. 12/16/22

How Can I Decide Whether Rhinoplasty Is the Right Choice for Me?

Rhinoplasty, often called a nose job, is among the most popular plastic surgery procedures. Patients undergo rhinoplasty for reasons that range from difficulty breathing to purely aesthetic reshaping.

While it’s not uncommon to find fault in the function or appearance of your nose, rhinoplasty isn’t for everyone. Choosing to undergo any surgery is a personal decision, and understanding the procedure can help you decide whether rhinoplasty is right for you.

What Is Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty reshapes the nose surgically by altering its cartilage and bones. The surgery can offer the following benefits:

Adjust nose size to restore facial balance
Reshape nose profile to eliminate visible humps or depressions
Narrow nose width
Reshape and reposition nostrils
Correct nasal asymmetry
Reshape a nasal tip that’s overly bulbous, large, drooping, or hooked

In addition, patients with difficulty breathing through their noses may undergo rhinoplasty to correct a deviated septum or other structural defects.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Rhinoplasty?

Qualities of a good candidate for a nose job include patients:

Whose facial growth is complete
Who are in good physical health
Who are in good mental health
Who do not smoke

Additionally, patients need to understand the rhinoplasty procedure, be prepared for the recovery process, and have realistic expectations for their outcome.

Why Rhinoplasty?

The first step in determining whether rhinoplasty is the right choice for your needs is clearly understanding what you want to change about your nose. Nose shapes vary widely, and choosing a shape and size that will best suit your other facial features is a complex process.

There are four different areas of the nose to evaluate when choosing rhinoplasty.

The Upper Nose

The bony area close to the eyes is often reshaped to remove a bump or narrow a broad nasal bridge. In addition, many patients undergo rhinoplasty to create symmetry between the height of the nasal bones and the angle between the forehead and the top of the nose, making a straight nose.

The Middle Nose

The middle part of the nose is where patients with a deviated septum will need reshaping. Many patients want the central nose to appear straight and even from the front and equal to the nasal bones in height from the side.

The Tip of the Nose

Of the four areas of the nose, the tip receives the most reshaping in a rhinoplasty.

Ideally, the tip of the nose creates an aesthetically pleasing line when viewed in profile. In some cases, it can project slightly beyond that line. For example, when the nose tip droops, it can appear curved or hooked. Similarly, the tip can point too far upward if it lacks cartilage.

The Nasal Airway

The nasal airway is the most critical element of a rhinoplasty, though it has little effect on the nose’s appearance. Often patients can have their nose’s aesthetics altered while treating nasal blockages due to structural defects in the airway.

Therefore, it’s essential to choose a surgeon skilled in maintaining the integrity of your airway while aesthetically reshaping your nose.

The best way to decide whether rhinoplasty is right for you is by working with an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon who will accurately assess your goals and explain what to expect after a rhinoplasty.

Dr. Apo M.D. 11/30/22 Dr. Apo M.D. 11/30/22

Rhinoplasty Can Improve Your Nasal Breathing

Rhinoplasties are often done to reach a patient’s aesthetic goals. However, rhinoplasty surgery can also achieve much more, as it can permanently help rid patients of breathing troubles.

What Is a Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty is a procedure that changes the appearance and function of the nose. A rhinoplasty surgery can accomplish any of the following:

Reshaping the nose overall
Reducing or widening the nostrils
Removing humps or bumps on the bridge of the nose
Improving the tip of the nose
Making the nose more symmetrical

Along with aesthetic improvements, rhinoplasty surgery is also an excellent option for patients suffering from breathing issues.

A Rhinoplasty Can Improve More than Just the Look of Your Nose

Rhinoplasty surgery is often the best option for patients looking to better the function of their nose and breath easier. Millions of individuals suffer from breathing problems caused by complications with the nose that could be addressed with a rhinoplasty procedure.

The most common cause of breathing issues is a structural abnormality in the nose. Among these abnormalities, a deviated septum is on top of the list.

The septum is a piece of cartilage in the nose that separates the nose into two chambers. When the septum is centered, air flows easily on both sides. When the septum is uncentered or deviated, it can cause substantial breathing problems.

A slight deviation in the septum is normal and usually causes no trouble. However, when the deviation in the septum is more significant, it can result in breathing difficulties which could, in turn, lead to other subsequent health issues.

Symptoms Caused by Nasal Breathing Problems

If you have an issue with breathing through your nose, you may experience the following symptoms:

Trouble breathing through one or both nostrils
Persistent nasal congestion
Nasal pressure
Facial pressure or pain
Headaches
Sinus infections
Nose bleeds
Trouble sleeping

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it may be an indication that something may be amiss structurally with your nose. A consultation with an experienced plastic surgeon can provide answers, including whether rhinoplasty could help correct your nasal breathing difficulties.

How Can a Rhinoplasty Fix Issues with Nasal Breathing?

During your rhinoplasty surgery, your plastic surgeon will target the cause of your breathing issues. Because many nasal issues can cause trouble with breathing, the details of your surgery depend on your surgical plan.

For example, if your issue is a deviated septum, your surgeon will go in and correct the deviation. On the other hand, if your breathing problems stem from a narrow nasal bridge, your surgeon will go in and widen the bridge to promote better breathing.

After your rhinoplasty surgery and initial recovery, you should be able to feel better and breathe much easier than you did before.

Consider Rhinoplasty Surgery to Improve Your Nasal Breathing

If you’ve been experiencing trouble breathing, you may have surgical options. Seek the medical advice of an experienced plastic surgeon to determine whether a rhinoplasty may be right for you.