The primary goal in any facial cosmetic surgical procedure is to restore symmetry to the face. In other words, making the facial features appear balanced and pleasing to the eye. A significant component in this for the cosmetic surgeon is approaching the face as a whole, rather than as individual parts. The goal is to make the entire face look more symmetrical. In other words, if one considers an imaginary line dividing the face in half, both horizontally and vertically, each quadrant should appear to be well balanced and even.
However, in certain instances, the surgeon must consider how to rebuild only part of a particular feature, such as a rhinoplasty (nose job) for only one side of the nose. The challenge is approaching the nose as a whole and striving for that symmetrical, balanced look.
The Reason for Rhinoplasty on One Side of the Nose
There are several reasons why a patient might need reconstructive surgery to only one side of the nose, including genetics or an injury to the nose (such as a blunt force trauma). However, the most common reason for reconstructing rhinoplasty to one side of the nose is a failed previous rhinoplasty. One side of the nose is weakened and collapses inward.
Reconstruction Techniques
The task is to strengthen the weakened cartilage that has caused the nose to collapse inward. To do this, grafts are taken from elsewhere to provide additional support to the existing nasal structure. In many cases, such a reconstructive procedure should take two to four hours.
Rhinoplasty Recovery
Recovery should be relatively quick. Most patients can return to work and other daily activities within a week from surgery. More strenuous activities, such as exercise, can be resumed in four to six weeks following surgery.
Side Effects and Risks
There may be some bruising and swelling after surgery, but both should begin to subside within the first week or two after the surgery. The nose may feel numb or have a reduced sensation. This is common and should subside within the first month or two following surgery. The principal risks of this type of reconstructive surgery are bleeding or infection. However, the chances for either is very small.
There is no reason why patients cannot have corrective surgery to repair previous cosmetic surgery that did not work. The whole idea behind facial plastic surgery is to make a face look more symmetrical. If an earlier cosmetic surgery does not achieve that, patients certainly should look into corrective cosmetic surgery as an option to give them the appearance they desire.
To schedule a primary nose surgery or revision rhinoplasty with Dr. Vincent Marin, contact Marin Aesthetics today. Our staff will schedule a consultation so patients can find out if they are good candidates for a rhinoplasty procedure. Dr. Marin will develop a treatment plan and advise patients of possible solutions.
