Rhinoplasty is an effective surgical solution for a wide range of cosmetic concerns and medical issues. The profile of your nose can be changed dramatically by making it smaller, larger, narrower or more symmetrical, or by resizing the tip and nostrils. Below, experienced Long Island plastic surgeon Lloyd D. Landsman, MD reviews the key factors to consider in determining if rhinoplasty is right for you.
Proven Benefits
You may be an ideal candidate for rhinoplasty if you are dissatisfied with the appearance of your nose, have realistic expectations of what modern surgical techniques can do and are excited to share your vision in a close collaborative partnership with your doctor.
Often the reason for rhinoplasty is subjective: The size and shape of the nose may seem fine in isolation, but a patient may believe that it clashes with the lines, curves and angles of other facial features. Unwanted characteristics include a bulbous tip, a bump, a nose that is too wide or even one that is too self-effacing. Dr. Landsman is skilled in reducing the size or thinning the nose, adding volume, correcting imperfections and changing the projection and angle of the nose.
He has also performed hundreds of procedures that address medical conditions, such as fixing a broken nose, widening nasal passages, removing obstructions for patients with breathing problems, and repairing a deviated septum, the wall that separates the breathing passages.
Disqualifying Factors
Nearly anyone is a good candidate for rhinoplasty, but there are a few physical considerations. For example, very thin skin is not well suited to hiding the underlying structure of the nose, because grafts and changes to the bone may be visible. Conversely, thick skin may not be sufficiently elastic to conform to the sleeker profile of a smaller nose.
Age is also a factor. Younger patients generally achieve better outcomes. By middle age, with less skin elasticity and a slower healing response, results can become less predictable. If you have had a rhinoplasty before, the earlier reshaping of cartilage and bone, along with the accumulation of scar tissue, will make the surgery more challenging.
For more information on rhinoplasty, call or email to schedule an appointment in the Smithtown, Long Island office of board-certified plastic surgeon Lloyd D. Landsman, MD.
