Rhinoplasty is the medical term for a procedure to reshape or repair the structure or appearance of the nose. Rhinoplasty includes both surgical and non-surgical techniques. In either case, a rhinoplasty is performed by a plastic surgeon.
It’s very important to find the best rhinoplasty surgeon possible to perform the procedure. The nose is a central feature of human appearance, and a poor rhinoplasty can have long term effects on appearance, and self-esteem.
Finding the best rhinoplasty surgeon starts with finding several local plastic surgeons. It’s a good idea to try and get referrals from other doctors, or from friends or family who have experience with rhinoplasty. It is also possible to find listings of local plastic surgeons and their specialties on the website for the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
When meeting with a rhinoplasty surgeon, be clear on exactly what the goal of the rhinoplasty is, and why it is necessary. A rhinoplasty done for aesthetic reasons (a cosmetic procedure) will use different techniques then one done to treat problems caused by an illness, injury or congenital problem (a reconstructive procedure). It is important to find a surgeon familiar with the specific needs and techniques for the situation.
Make sure to check their credentials as well. All plastic surgeons should be board certified, so a minimal level of education and practice is guaranteed. Make sure the surgeon is certified by either the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery or the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Surgeons certified under other medical boards will not have specific training in rhinoplasty. Beyond that, find out how long they have been practicing, how much experience they have with the needed technique, and any additional certifications or specialized training they may have.
An experienced plastic surgeon should be able to provide before and after photos of earlier patients, and an understandable explanation of the needed procedure. This explanation should include the recovery process, any possible risks, and how likely it is that a second procedure may be needed.
In addition to providing the patient with all the information he or she needs on the procedure, this allows them to be certain that the surgeon understands their needs, and the desired outcome. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or seek clarification.
In addition to a surgeon’s skill and understanding of the necessary procedures, expense has to be a factor. Insurance will rarely cover rhinoplasty, except in some specific cases of reconstructive surgery to address issues like difficulty breathing. It is a very rare insurance policy that will cover cosmetic rhinoplasty.
The surgeon’s fee for rhinoplasty can run from $3000-$8000. Consultation fees may be an additional expense. Other costs include anethisiologists and facilities fees, and medications needed for recovery.
Surgeon’s fees tend to be higher in big cities like New York or Los Angeles. If possible, travelling out of the city to another area may make it possible to find skilled rhinoplasty surgeons with less expensive fees.
Finding the best rhinoplasty surgeon requires seeking a combination of skill, cost and understanding of the patient’s specific needs. There are a large number of skilled surgeons in practice, so with a little research it should be possible to find the perfect surgeon for any individual’s needs.
