Rhinoplasty in Houston, TX
About Rhinoplasty Surgery
Rhinoplasty is a cosmetic surgical procedure that changes the size and shape of the nose. Although rhinoplasty consists of small, subtle changes, this procedure can have a significant impact on your appearance. A rhinoplasty alters the bone, cartilage and skin of the nose.This plastic surgery is ideal for people who aren't satisfied with the overall appearance of their nose. When it comes to nose job procedures, our cosmetic surgery experts in Houston take a conservative approach in order to create natural-looking results.
In some cases, rhinoplasty can also correct impaired breathing caused by structural issues, such as a deviated septum. Many patients who have been in accidents and suffered a nose injury seek out reconstructive surgery.
Dr. Lou is an experienced surgeon at our Houston clinic that will create rhinoplasty results that are tailored to your individual facial structure and goals. The goal is a visually appealing nose that meets your cosmetic desires and functions properly. Before deciding to have rhinoplasty, patients should be aware that it will alter their overall facial appearance. Schedule your rhinoplasty consultation with Dr. Lou to learn more!
Rhinoplasty Surgical Techniques
Rhinoplasty at our Houston clinic is performed with general anesthesia and typically takes one hour to perform.
A rhinoplasty procedure can:
Narrow a wide nose
Widen a narrow nose
Make the nasal bridge higher and more defined
Change the angle between the upper lip and nose
Smooth a bump
Reduce nasal tip projection
Correct misshapen nasal structure
Depending on the patient’s anatomy and unique goals, Dr. Lou performs rhinoplasty at our Houston location using either a closed or open surgical technique. He then removes excess cartilage, tissue, and bone. In other cases, cartilage is added to create a new shape. Once the nasal features are repositioned, the skin is carefully sculpted around the newly revised nasal structure. Our plastic surgeon will then close any wounds with stitches which are sometimes dissolvable.
Open rhinoplasty involves a small incision on the columella (the small divider between the nostrils). This incision is usually hidden within the natural creases of the patient's nose. This open surgical procedure provides plastic surgeons with a clearer view. Open rhinoplasty is best used for patients who would like a significant reduction in their nasal tip projection. This approach is also better suited for revision rhinoplasty.
A closed rhinoplasty involves no incisions on the columella, which helps to reduce swelling and minimize visible scars and incision lines. A closed rhinoplasty technique also shortens your recovery time.
“Dr. Lou was very straightforward and explained everything in detail. I went in for a fractured nose and he had honest answers which I loved.”
Rhinoplasty FAQs
How much does it cost to get rhinoplasty in Houston?
Our nose reshaping and rhinoplasty treatments in Houston vary in price according to complexity and the technique used. Once Dr. Lou has a clear understanding of your goals, he will be able to provide an estimate. However, rhinoplasty cost is not the only factor to consider. Finding a skilled and experienced surgeon who provides natural-looking results is more important than finding the lowest price. Lou Plastic Surgery accepts various payment methods, and we can even help you find low-interest medical financing.
What is the recovery process like?
After your rhinoplasty, you will be carefully monitored and then discharged home for recovery. Patients should avoid washing their hair and applying make-up for two days while they wear a splint during that time. The recovery time for rhinoplasty varies from patient to patient, but rhinoplasty patients can usually return to work within 2 weeks. Bruising and swelling usually resolves itself within one week. Ice packs and pain medication can help alleviate discomfort and swelling. Additionally, many people experience nasal congestion after this surgery because of swelling that occurs naturally in the nose. Decongestants and anti-inflammatory medications can help reduce this effect during recovery.
You will attend a follow-up appointment with Dr. Lou within the week after surgery so that he can assess how well you are recovering. Rhinoplasty recovery time ranges from 2 – 4 weeks. Strenuous activity and exercise should be avoided during this time.
How old does a rhinoplasty patient need to be?
Rhinoplasty surgery is normally performed on adults, but occasionally may be requested by parents of younger patients who were born with a birth defect. Only those whose facial and nasal cartilage growth is complete should undergo rhinoplasty. This will be assessed during the consultation.
Will my insurance cover functional nasal surgery and sinus surgery?
Rhinoplasty performed for cosmetic reasons is not covered by insurance. However, if you have trouble breathing, functional rhinoplasty that is necessary to improve nasal breathing function may be covered. You should inform Dr. Lou during your consultation if you plan to apply for reimbursement from your insurance. Our office can help submit the necessary paperwork to your insurance provider.
Do you offer ethnic rhinoplasty?
With ethnic rhinoplasty, you can improve the appearance of your nose while maintaining your unique cultural presentation. Careful attention is given so that your final result is harmonious with your other facial features. This is something many of our African-American, Asian, and Middle Eastern patients take into careful consideration. Dr. Lou will listen to your priorities. Your personalized treatment will reflect the improvements you are looking for without sacrificing your cultural identity and facial features.
How effective are nonsurgical nose jobs?
Dr. Lou can discuss nonsurgical treatments during your consultation. Fillers may improve minor imperfections temporarily. If you have bumps on your nose, a wrinkle filler such as Juvéderm or Restylane could temporarily suit your needs. These solutions may also help you decide if you want to proceed with nose surgery. Surgical rhinoplasty goes beyond minor imperfections with significant, long-term changes, and can even improve breathing.
What if I want to combine nose surgery with other facial surgeries?
Rhinoplasty alone can often make your face more balanced, so we highly recommend waiting for your results before having another facial plastic surgery. However, those wishing to combine rhinoplasty with another cosmetic surgery such as chin augmentation or eyelid surgery should discuss their goals with Dr. Lou. With your cosmetic concerns in mind, he can better advise you on which treatments to include or postpone.
Houston Rhinoplasty. Better Nose. Better You.
If you are unhappy with the appearance of your nose, rhinoplasty could provide a big boost in your confidence! You will be surprised how even small adjustments can produce dramatic results. A rhinoplasty nose job procedure at our Houston clinic can reduce a wide nose, eliminate bumps on the bridge of your nose, or even correct a birth defect. Rhinoplasty surgery can improve breathing as well as appearance! If you’re interested in any of our rhinoplasty treatments in Houston, we encourage you to call our team and schedule an initial appointment.