News & Media
A Word or Two About Rhinoplasty: The Importance of Providing a Natural Look
From the countless Rhinoplasty surgeries that I have performed over these past 27 years, there rises one constant and recurrent patient concern.......that of having an obviously "surgerized look" to the finished nose...be it an overly turned up tip, an unnaturally scooped-out or abnormal fullness to the bridge of the nose, or an overall lumpiness or asymmetry....the worry of looking "overdone" is universal. A further, more serious complication, such as a nasal valve collapse, can produce a result not only abnormal in appearance, but functionally inadequate and an impairment to the patients’ breathing ability. The vast majority of these problems and complications are a direct result of what is referred to as "over-resection" or "over-operation of the nasal tissues and the resultant lack of proper support. The framework of the nose is composed of both cartilage and bone. In a Rhinoplasty procedure, the surgeon is either reducing the amount of cartilage and bone that has developed, (naturally or through trauma), or adding to it, (as is the case in certain Asian-type noses where there is a need for more projection and/or more height.) Up until recently, a surgeon, (in attempting to contour the nasal skeletal framework), could unintentionally end up "over-operating" on these tissues, leaving the nose without the proper structural support and paving the way for a myriad of complications, (both functional and aesthetic), postoperatively down the line. Fortunately, todays’ surgeons have a viable solution to this previously insurmountable predicament. Created to specifically address this "structural breakdown " issue, a technique known as "Structural Rhinoplasty",( in which the natural nasal structure is enhanced or reinforced, with the skin then re-draping itself over this structural framework),is the modern-day surgeons’ salvation. Not only are the immediate post-operative results visibly superior, but , the potential for any residual changes secondary to healing stresses or aging stresses is significantly reduced or even eliminated. Hence, the accomplished objective..... a naturally aesthetic long term result.
Another important consideration in performing a Rhinoplasty procedure, is the inherent difference between the male and female nose. In the male nose, the bony bridge is typically slightly fuller, stronger and wider, with the nasal tip fuller, somewhat wider and not as upwardly rotated as that of the female. Conversely, the classic female nose, presents a slight upward tilt to the tip, a small supra-tip depression, with a gently curved nature to the bridge. Additionally apparent, is a more projected tip and a narrower bony bridge. Both the masculine and feminine prototypes are characteristically straight, smooth and aesthetically symmetrical.
In closing, let me say, that the true standard for an excellent rhinoplasty, is a nose that does not draw attention, but rather, beautifully and naturally works with and balances the other facial features. The ultimate compliment that you, as a patient, or, I, as a surgeon can receive, is the bewilderment of a close friend or family member, who just KNOW that something is different, that the "post –rhinoplasty" individual just looks better than the image in the observer’s memory bank and that, try as the they may, he or she simply can’t put their finger on, or pin down, just what "it" is... a new hairstyle??...a major weight loss??? ......tinted contact lenses to replace those heavy frames??? ...cosmetic dentistry???? The list goes on...and, although, they may remain perplexed as to the underlying cause, what comes through loud and clear is, just HOW TERRIFIC YOU LOOK...and that pretty much makes any surgeon’s, (or any patient’s), day.
Thank you so much for taking a few moments of your time and learning a little about a procedure that is truly one of my passions. If you have specific questions or issues with Rhinoplasty or another cosmetic procedure, my staff would be delighted to schedule your personal, complimentary appointment. Just give us a call @ (858) 350-8400.
Have a safe and wonderful summer!
Most sincerely,
Maurice P. Sherman, M.D.