Rhinoplasty San Antonio

Beautiful Results

Nose surgery can also be performed to change the angle between the nose and the upper lip, as well as create a better balance with other facial features. Rhinoplasty can be combined with facelift, cheek implants, or lip enhancement for a more complete cosmetic makeover. 

Determining Patients' Candidacy

Rhinoplasty candidates are patients who are unhappy with the size or shape of their noses, and want a permanent solution. Rhinoplasty can enlarge or reduce the size of your nose, alter the bridge or tip, correct structural deformities that make breathing difficult, and adjust the size and shape of the nostrils. Rhinoplasty is one of few plastic surgery treatments performed on patients younger than 18, as many children experience bullying or extreme self consciousness because of their noses. Girls must be at least 14 years of age, while boys must be at least 15 years of age to receive rhinoplasty.

Evaluating Your Concerns and Goals

During your initial consultation to discuss rhinoplasty surgery at our San Antonio office, Dr. Constance Barone will evaluate the structure of your nose and face and talk with you about the changes you would like to make in the appearance of your nose. Dr. Barone will explain all aspects of the procedure, and she encourages you to be forthright and direct about any concerns you may have, your cosmetic enhancement goals, your medical history, any breathing difficulties or allergies, and any medications, vitamins, or drugs you may be taking. She will, in turn, be equally frank with you about how your expectations can best be met. Dr. Barone will also discuss your potential costs and financing options. 

Preparing for the Procedure

Our rhinoplasty surgeon will give you guidelines on how to prepare for surgery, including diet recommendations and instructions on which medications and vitamin supplements to avoid. Patients should make arrangements for someone to take them home after surgery and help take care of them for a few days, if necessary.

Those who follow pre-operative instructions carefully are far less likely to experience complications during and after the procedure.

Rhinoplasty Surgery

San Antonio patients can have rhinoplasty surgery performed on an outpatient or inpatient basis, depending on their preferences. More complex or extensive procedures may require an overnight hospital stay. Rhinoplasty can be performed using either local anesthesia combined with a sedative or general anesthesia.

The rhinoplasty procedure begins with incisions made either along the inside of the nostrils or on the vertical strip of tissue that separates the nostrils. Either method should yield little to no visible scarring. The nasal skin is separated from the bone and cartilage, which are then reshaped to reflect the desired appearance. The skin is then redraped over the newly sculpted bone and cartilage, and the incisions are closed. A splint will be applied to the area to aid the nose in retaining its new shape. Nasal packs may also be necessary in order to stabilize the septum (the wall dividing air passages within the nose). The entire rhinoplasty procedure typically takes about an hour or two, depending on the extent of the procedure.

Rhinoplasty Recovery

Patients can expect the face to feel puffy and the nose to ache within the first day of surgery. These symptoms may also lead to a dull headache. Pain and discomfort can be alleviated with medication. Patients should plan to stay in bed with their heads elevated for the first day after rhinoplasty. Residual swelling and bruising should fade within the first two weeks. Bleeding is common in the days following nose surgery; however, you should not blow your nose for at least a week after the procedure in order to allow the tissues to heal. Nasal packing will be taken out after a few days, and all dressings, splints, and stitches are typically removed after about a week or two. Patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities for two to three weeks and to take extra care that the nose is kept safe from harm or sun damage for at least eight weeks. Most patients are able to resume normal, daily routines about a week after the rhinoplasty procedure.

If you are self conscious about the shape of your nose, or struggle to breathe comfortably, rhinoplasty surgery can help you. Your nose is one of the most prominent features of your face. If you are unhappy with its size or shape, renowned plastic surgeon Constance Barone can customize rhinoplasty surgery to create the look you desire. 

Rhinoplasty Cost

When performed for cosmetic purposes, rhinoplasty is not covered by insurance; however, when performed for reconstructive purposes, or to correct a breathing problem or deformity, it might be. It would be a good idea to check with your insurer about what your policy will and will not cover before deciding whether to undergo the procedure.

Dr. Barone offers rhinoplasty surgery starting at $4,000. Your final cost depends upon several factors. These include anesthesia and the complexity of your surgery. You will have a better idea of your final cost after your consultation. It is important to remember that rhinoplasty performed by a reputable plastic surgeon can be a highly rewarding investment in your physical appearance, as well as your self-esteem. If your rhinoplasty surgery is also addressing breathing issues, it can benefit your health. We offer several convenient financing options to place the cost of rhinoplasty within your budget.

What Are the Benefits of Rhinoplasty?

Depending upon your aesthetic goals, rhinoplasty can fine tune slight imperfections or correct more obvious aesthetic issues. In addition to improving your appearance and your self-confidence, rhinoplasty can actually improve your health by helping you to breathe easier. Other benefits of rhinoplasty include:

• Correction of a broken or otherwise injured nose
• Increased confidence in your appearance
• Straightening of the nasal bridge for patients with a hooked or curved bridge
• Improved proportion between the nose and other facial features

For some patients, rhinoplasty surgery can be a life-changing experience, helping them to feel more confident and enjoy an improved quality of life. 

What Are the Possible Risks?

When deciding to receive rhinoplasty, you should be sure to select a plastic surgeon who has extensive experience and an excellent reputation. By choosing a skilled surgeon like Dr. Barone, you reduce the risks of surgery. Common risks associated with this treatment include:

• Excessive bleeding
• Changed sensation in the nose or feelings of numbness
• Difficulty breathing through the nose
• Regular nosebleeds following surgery
• Skin discoloration
• Unfavorable scarring
• Infection

While rare, these serious risks should be strongly considered before you or your child undergoes rhinoplasty. Dr. Barone takes many careful measures to minimize the risks associated with surgery. If you are considering this surgery, we encourage you to review Dr. Barone's previous rhinoplasty client results and speak with our team about any concerns.