About Rhinoplasty / Nose Surgery
Information from board-certified New York Plastic Surgeon
Dr. Howard Bellin
Rhinoplasty Questions and Answers
Each year more than two hundred thousand Americans decide to change the shape
of their noses, and in the near future this number could double. The
rhinoplasty or "nose job" is the most commonly done cosmetic procedure.
While there is little risk for the patient, it demands a high degree of surgical
skill for two very important reasons.
First, the nose is easily the most prominent feature on the human face. Regardless
of which direction we are viewed from-above, below, head-on, or profile--it's
always the center of attention. So any change will affect the appearance of
the entire face.
Second, the operative technique is extremely demanding, and it's difficult
to do well. Inside, the nose is supported by a delicate framework of small bones
and resilient cartilage. Even a tiny miscalculation on the part of the surgeon
can lead to unsatisfactory results.
In fact, some doctors never learn to do it properly, as evidenced by the unhappy
patients whose noses have obviously been "done". Some people think that they
can recognize every nose job, but in reality, they can only tell the ones that
are bad. With surgery it is certainly possible to create a beautiful and normal
nose.
A top plastic surgeon must be able to do more than
one kind of nose. He has to be proficient at changing a nose to fit
the individual face. If you can look at someone and know which doctor
did his nose, be wary of letting this doctor operate on you. A particular
type of nose might be attractive on one face, but not necessarily
on yours.
It takes a great deal of experience to effect good nose changes. Even a surgeon
with extraordinary skill has to know what you want before he can comply, so
be sure to discuss your expectations in the consultation.
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