Rhinoplasty (Nose Job) in Utah

What is Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty (nasal surgery) is performed most often to achieve aesthetic and also functional results. Aesthetically, Dr. Thompson and Dr. Henstrom work to reshape the nose to achieve a more harmonious relationship with the rest of the face. Functionally, cartilage and bone are repositioned or reshaped to improve nasal breathing. The term septorhinoplasty is used when both functional and cosmetic components exist. With dual certification in facial plastic surgery and ear, nose, and throat surgery, both Dr. Thompson and Dr. Henstrom have performed many septorhinoplasty surgeries for patients experiencing breathing difficulties that also desire a more harmonious look.

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Who Should Get Rhinoplasty Surgery?

Because it is the most defining feature of the face, the size and shape of the nose has a significant impact on a person’s appearance. Patients seek rhinoplasty surgery, also known as a nose job, for many different reasons. Some people want a straighter nose while others may want their nostrils narrowed. A large dorsal bump is often of concern as well as the size in proportion to the rest of the face. Furthermore, the nasal tip has a tendency to lose support and droop as a result of the normal aging process. We are proud to offer rhinoplasty to patients in Salt Lake City, Layton, Draper and all across the Wasatch Front.

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What Should I Expect from a Rhinoplasty Consultation at Utah Facial Plastics?

Rhinoplasty is generally considered to be one of the more challenging of facial plastic procedures and is an area in which Dr. Thompson and Dr. Henstrom have particular expertise and training. The goals and approach to each individual are unique and depend on many factors discussed at length in a detailed consultation with either surgeon or their Patient Care Coordinator, who often see patients for the initial appointment at no charge. Imaging sessions our also offered at both offices in Layton and Draper, Utah.

Dr. Thompson or Henstrom will be able to evaluate the nose as it relates to the rest of the face. A patient may request a reduction in the size of the nose when in reality, the chin makes the nose appear artificially large. In such a case, a chin implant may be recommended in addition to the nasal surgery. Some minor concerns can also be corrected with the use of non-surgical fillers to reshape the nose. Your surgeon will analyze the nose and face then make recommendations based on his knowledge and expertise in the aesthetics of the full face.

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Analyzing the Nose

The desired nose should complement the other features of the face. The ideal shape comes from an aesthetic concept, which has its roots in the perception of beauty, for either male or female. On the other hand, plastics surgeons and artists have come up with particular proportions and guidelines based on their study of beauty and faces. These guidelines provide surgeons with a baseline for analyzing the face for the aesthetically ideal nose. These are the angles a surgeon needs to consider when assessing the right projection for the nose.

Nasofacial Angle
If the nasofacial angle is one way to analyze the nose. If the nasofacial angle looks big, this means that the nose is projected far from the face. If the angel is short, the opposite can be true. A skilled facial plastic surgeon can get a good impression on the projection by looking at the nose in profile.

Nasomental Angle
Often times, it’s a small chin that makes the nose appear larger than it actually is. Surgeons consider the nasomental angle along with others to determine what steps need to be taken for achieving facial harmony. The surgeon also determines whether the lips are properly aligned or linked to other facial parts.

Nasolabial Angle
An acute nasolabial angle is characterized by a droopy nose. If the nose is uplifted or too short, the nasolabial angle may be obtuse.

Columellar Show
Ideally, no more than 4 mm of the columella, the area between the nostrils, will be seen at profile view.

Dr. Thompson or Henstrom will also evaluate the nose from a front view, to assess whether the nose is straight or twisted, narrow, normal, or has excessive width. The tip will be evaluated to see if it’s asymmetric, bulbous, or abnormal. The thickness of the skin is also taken into consideration.

From the side view, either surgeon can determine whether the nose is too short or long, has a hump or ski-slope, or if it has a pleasant profile in which case the nose fits the patient’s face. Projections are evaluated as well as how much nostril is shown. Considering all aspects and angles of the nose is crucial to the overall success of the rhinoplasty procedure.

Most important to both surgeons is the patients desires and concerns when looking in the mirror. He can than provide the best course of action based on a thorough evaluation and discussion regarding the patients goals for rhinoplasty surgery.

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Form & Function

As noted above, many procedures are not purely aesthetic but have functional components as well. The patient’s nose should not only look great after the procedure but also has to work well. Your exam will include a thorough look inside to nose for any septal deviation and breathing issues that need to be addressed. Dr. Thompson or Henstrom can then ensure all steps are taken to ensure the nose will work properly and address the patient’s aesthetic concerns. At that time, your surgeons Patient Care Coordinator will provide financial information and take any steps necessary to approve surgery with your insurance carrier if there is a functional component involved.

Top Reasons People Choose Rhinoplasty Surgery with Dr. Douglas Henstrom

Nose Surgery Frequently Asked Questions

Who is an ideal candidate for rhinoplasty surgery?

An ideal candidate for rhinoplasty or septorhinoplasty surgery is typically 16 years of age or older with good to excellent health and realistic expectations. Most candidates include those whom have a significant nasal deformity and/or cosmetic concerns that make them feel self-conscious or unhappy.

Ideal candidates are well-adjusted and do not expect rhinoplasty surgery to transform them into someone else, but to correct concerns and restore facial balance.

How is rhinoplasty surgery performed?

Rhinoplasty is performed in the operating room under deep sedation. Depending on the goals of surgery and the anatomic considerations of the individual patient, either an “open” or “closed” approach is taken. With the open approach, a small incision is made on the skin separating the nostrils. This incision heals very well and generally becomes imperceptible with time. With the closed approach, all incisions are made inside the nose. Whichever approach is used, cartilage, bone, and soft tissue are shifted and reshaped to achieve the desired result. Benefits of Rhinoplasty include:

Improves harmonization of nose and facial features
Improves nasal breathing
Can restore nasal appearance and function following nasal trauma
Results are usually permanent
Safe and effective

An in-office non-surgical rhinoplasty option is available for the right candidate. This can be done with the use of a dermal filler to even out the dorsum or add volume or shape to a certain area of the nose. These are typically performed by our Nurse Injectors (Alfie Symes & Beth Sheiner) in both Layton and Draper. If the goal is to decrease the size of any aspect of the nose, surgery would be required.

What should I expect with recovery from rhinoplasty surgery?

Following rhinoplasty surgery head elevation and an ice pack to the forehead are recommended. If nasal packing has been placed, it will be removed the following day. A nasal cast will be in place and removed one week following surgery as well as any stitches and splints. Significant pain is uncommon, but prescription pain medication is provided for any discomfort that does arise. Patients typically report a general feeling of discomfort and pressure in the face.

Most patients are ready to return to school or work after one week, but bruising often remains for about two weeks. Significant swelling is still present at one week when the cast is removed and resolves slowly over several weeks. Beyond this, subtle contour changes will continue to occur for up to one year as swelling continues to resolve.

More pre-operative information is given, along with prescriptions, at a pre-operative appointment at least 2 weeks prior to surgery.

What are typical rhinoplasty results?

Expect to be extremely happy with your rhinoplasty results and the harmonious balance restored to your face. Patients report getting a lot of positive feedback from others who tell them they look great but often are not sure what is different.

If a septorhinoplasty was performed, expect to breathe normally again with a significant decrease in previous nasal concerns. It does take time for internal swelling to go down as well, but you will experience significant improvement once all packing and splints have been removed.

How much does a rhinoplasty cost?

The surgical total greatly varies with each patient but is typically between $2,500 and $7,200. If insurance is involved, the cosmetic portion will likely be lower as it is more cost effective when performing cosmetic and functional nasal procedures at the same time. Jessica sends medical records and documents to your insurance provider after your initial consultation to gain authorization prior to surgery and will contact you regarding your final balance.

When is the best age for a rhinoplasty?

The facial skeleton has generally completed normal growth by age 15-17 (usually earlier for girls and later for boys). Anytime after this time is a good age for a rhinoplasty. Exceptions are sometimes made for unusual circumstances or severe nasal deformities, but these determinations are best made through individual consultation.

How long is recovery from rhinoplasty?

Generally speaking patients need approximately 1 week of down time following rhinoplasty surgery. At this point the cast and splints (as applicable) are removed. Heavy exercise should be limited for 3 weeks.

Who is a good candidate for a rhinoplasty?

Good candidates for rhinoplasty include patients with breathing problems with contributing structural issues (deviated nasal septum and/or external nasal deformity) as well as patients who are concerned with external nasal features that are personally bothersome or that contribute to an overall aesthetic imbalance.

How long does a rhinoplasty take to perform?

Rhinoplasty generally takes between 1 and 4 hours depending on how much work is necessary.

What is done to correct breathing problems?

Breathing problems are generally corrected with a combination of deviated septum repair, turbinate reduction, nasal bone repositioning, and spreader grafts (correction of narrow nasal valves).

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Rhinoplasty Before & After

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Rhinoplasty Testimonials

“I am VERY pleased with my nasal surgery as well as my facial rejuvenation. Dr. Thompson is very attentive to my questions and concerns. I have recommended him to friends and family and will continue to do so” ~ AB

“I had an amazing experience. Dr. Henstrom was great. He was professional and answered all of my questions and concerns going into my nose surgery. He made me feel comfortable and confident in my decision. The outcome was better than I could have ever expected. The bump on my nose is completely gone. I would highly recommend him.” ~ LK

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Interested in getting rhinoplasty in Salt Lake City, Draper, Layton, Utah and the surrounding areas? Contact Utah Facial Plastics for more information or to schedule an appointment call (801) 776-2220 or fill out our contact form here.