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What Makes Rhinoplasty So Complex?

The nose is a complex and delicate structure, making rhinoplasty a very challenging procedure and one of the most difficult surgeries to master. A blend of a surgeon’s training, skill, experience, and refined sense of aesthetics all come into play to achieve optimal results and avoid complications. Getting the procedure right the first time by choosing the right plastic surgeon is key to a successful outcome.

Double board-certified in both facial plastic and reconstructive surgery and head and neck surgery, Philip Miller, MD, FACS, is considered one of the country’s foremost experts in rhinoplasty and facial rejuvenation. He has over 20 years of experience within the facial plastic surgery industry and has performed over 5,000 successful surgeries. His approach combines art and science with skill and innovation and provides thousands of patients in Manhattan, New York with natural-looking results that exceed their goals.

revision rhinoplasty results in NYC, NY The Reasons Behind So Many Revision Rhinoplasties 

Approximately 10-15% of patients who undergo nose jobs request a second procedure at some point. Cutting costs by settling for an inexperienced surgeon who uses outdated techniques and lacks clear communication skills could result in complications from the procedure and poor results, creating a need for a revision rhinoplasty. Specifically, functional and aesthetic issues that may warrant revision rhinoplasty may include:

  • Pinched tip (too much cartilage being removed from the tip of the nose results in a “pinched nose” appearance or a short nose)
  • Progressive nasal obstruction
  • Scar tissue formation during the healing process
  • Crooked or twisted nose
  • Deviated septum

Revision rhinoplasty is not a decision that should be taken lightly. The procedure can be much more intricate than the primary rhinoplasty and requires a surgeon with a broad understanding of the nasal structure and the best surgical techniques. In effect, the procedure can take longer to perform and may cost significantly more than the initial surgery. This is why getting rhinoplasty right the first time by choosing the best surgeon is crucial. 

It is important to note that only a facial plastic surgeon should perform revision rhinoplasty. Dr. Philip Miller is known for his ability to produce the most natural and aesthetically appealing rhinoplasty results. With a high success rate, he is an expert at revising original rhinoplasties that did not produce the desired result.

The Complex Nose Structure

Surgeons consider form and function when performing rhinoplasty because, while nose jobs are mostly desired for cosmetic reasons, you must also consider the nose’s proper function. While operating, facial plastic surgeons must make sure the nose’s structure remains intact and the patient can breathe properly once they’ve recovered. More than just a passageway for air, the nose consists of an intricate mix of varying tissues. Fragile bone at the back and bridge and flexible cartilage in the front support the nose. Covering all of that is skin that surgeons must carefully manipulate during surgery so it drapes properly over all of the nose’s components. In some cases, surgeons also correct functional issues while enhancing the nose’s appearance. 

Altering the nose is unlike sculpting a piece of marble that you chisel down to the desired shape and size. Rather, the nose is disassembled, augmented, or trimmed, repositioned, and then rebuilt—all while preserving its important functions such as airflow.

rhinoplasty results on patient with realistic rhinoplasty expectations in NY, NY Are Your Expectations Realistic? 

When considering any type of nose surgery, even if it’s a non-surgical rhinoplasty, your prospective surgeon must be more than willing to sit down for a consultation with you. Making sure you and your plastic surgeon are on the same page during the consultation and on the day of your procedure helps ensure a successful result. Your surgeon must have a clear understanding of your aesthetic goals, ask about your medical history, and discuss your available cosmetic options, potential risks, and pre- and post-operative care. Your surgeon should be able to confidently answer all your questions.

Dr. Miller uses before and after photos as well as image morphing to make sure your expectations are realistic and can be met. Particularly, he uses virtual rhinoplasty as a tool to help you visualize your rhinoplasty results, all from the comfort of his Manhattan office. With the latest in computer imaging and 3D technology, you can “try on” a variety of changes to see your potential results, helping you find the best look for you before surgery.

If the Nose Fits

Part of having realistic expectations for rhinoplasty is understanding what rhinoplasty can achieve for your nose. Everyone has unique nasal features and facial structures that determine how much can be changed. Sure, Blake Lively and Jennifer Lopez may appear to have the “perfect” noses, and you are free to show their photos to your plastic surgeon. However, don’t expect that someone else’s nose will look right on your face. It shouldn’t be your goal to match somebody else’s appearance, but only use them as a source of inspiration. Achieving the right nose for you will depend on your facial structure, symmetry, size, and balance. Surgeons should not use a one-size-fits-all approach, and you cannot expect a perfect replica of another person’s nose after surgery.

To set yourself up for success, begin by choosing the best facial plastic surgeon. The best surgeons know how to customize a nose surgery to the precise needs of each patient to achieve balance and natural beauty. Dr. Miller’s approach to rhinoplasty starts with the NatraLook® process, which optimizes the patient experience by creating a collaborative environment that keeps you as an active participant in your transformation journey. This ensures the most rewarding results because it is the process’s goal to empower you and help you achieve Aesthetic Confidence®.

Schedule A Rhinoplasty Consultation With A NYC Plastic Surgeon Today

Settle for nothing but the best in facial plastic surgery. By choosing a world-class plastic surgeon with the right combination of experience, skill, expertise, and aesthetic eye, you can achieve beautiful and natural-looking results that are life-changing. Contact Dr. Miller in New York City to learn more about rhinoplasty and other facial plastic surgery procedures that can enhance your appearance.

One Anti-Aging Procedure You Wouldn’t Expect, Rhinoplasty

When looking younger is the goal, most people think about smoothing out wrinkles, brightening the eyes, and lifting sagging skin. Have you ever thought to add rhinoplasty to that list? When patients come for a nose procedure, they typically want to correct the tip, adjust the nostrils, or remove a hump. Now we know, thanks to a recent UCLA study, that rhinoplasties can also make people look up to three years younger—or more.

As a facial plastic surgeon who focuses exclusively on cosmetic procedures for the face, Philip J. Miller, MD, FACS, offers patients the latest in facial enhancement and anti-aging procedures, including surgical and non-surgical rhinoplasty at his New York City office. Peers recognized Dr. Miller as an expert in facial plastic surgery, and particularly in rhinoplasty. Most recently, Dr. Miller spoke at the 10th International Symposium of Facial Plastic Surgery and lectured on innovative rhinoplasty techniques.

How Can A Nose Show Age?

Image of a female patient showing before and after results for rhinoplasty. Giving more younger appearance. NYC, NY

As you age, internal changes cause external symptoms, and this is true for the nose as well as other areas of the face. The nose consists of bone, cartilage, and soft tissues, all of which can shift over time. Beneath the surface, bone loss can cause the nose to droop. The nasal tip often stretches with age, widening the nose. Paired with irregular skin texture and thinning outer skin, the nose can show a lot of aging symptoms.

Rhinoplasty for Anti-Aging in New York

The nose is a stand-out facial feature, and it’s largely responsible for creating a balanced or unbalanced appearance. As a main focal point, if it looks irregular or aged, the rest of the face will likely look off as well.

Researchers from UCLA studied how much the nose can affect peoples’ perceived ages, and they found that the rejuvenating effects of rhinoplasty can make women look up to three years younger or more, in some cases. The researchers used artificial intelligence to analyze before and after photos of 100 women who had undergone rhinoplasties 12 or more weeks ago. The women in the photographs were aged 16 to 72, and an algorithm guessed their ages based on the photographs.

“This technology allows us to accurately estimate age in an objective way and has proven to recognize patterns and features of aging beyond what the human eye can perceive,” says Dr. Robert Dorfman, lead author of the study and a resident physician in the division of plastic and reconstructive surgery at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA.

The most dramatic results were evident in women 40+ as some looked up to seven years younger, according to the AI algorithm. The sample size of this age group was only 25, so researchers will need to conduct further studies to confirm the results.

Rhinoplasty to straighten the nasal bridge of a male patient by Dr. Miller. Surgery removes dorsal hump from bridge to create a more aesthetically pleasing facial contour. Possible Improvements from a Rhinoplasty

People seeking rhinoplasties sometimes come with specific concerns they want to be corrected, and others might just want an overall facial improvement. With a rhinoplasty procedure, you can achieve:

  • Nasal symmetry
  • Balanced nose and face proportions
  • Slimmed, slightly rotated, and aesthetically pleasing nasal tip
  • Narrower nostrils
  • Smoother nasal bridge (remove humps or depressions)

No matter what your nasal or facial concerns, Dr. Miller will help you understand what improvements are possible with a rhinoplasty at your initial consultation. Revision rhinoplasty may be required in some cases. Using his proprietary NatraLook process, Dr. Miller creates an enriching experience for patients to explore possibilities with cosmetic procedures in a safe, unintimidating environment.

Other Reasons to Consider a Rhinoplasty

Nose surgeries are not just for aesthetic concerns because noses do much more than just look pretty. Procedures can also correct improper nose functions, such as:

  • Blocked airflow
  • Sleep apnea
  • Damage due to an injury

Dr. Miller performs septoplasties in Manhattan to correct deviated septums, a condition where partition between the two nasal cavities does not run straight down the center of the nose. The crooked shape can create a blockage that prevents open airflow and hinders normal breathing.

Image showing a female patient of Dr. Miller before and after the rhinoplasty improving nasal contours and physical appearance Entrust Your Nose Procedure with Dr. Miller

Rhinoplasties are known as one of the most difficult plastic surgery procedures to perform, which is why you should only trust the best to enhance this important feature on your face. As a double-board certified facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Miller is focused solely on treatments for the face, continually innovating and improving upon known rhinoplasty techniques. Dr. Miller has published chapters in rhinoplasty textbooks, served as a guest editor of the monographs Facial Plastic Surgery and Clinics of Facial Plastic Surgery, and regularly lectures at facial plastic surgery events in front of his peers. If you want the best possible rhinoplasty results to restore youthfulness to your appearance in a welcoming atmosphere, entrust your procedure to Dr. Miller.

Dr. Miller also uses advanced technology so he can offer virtual rhinoplasties. A virtual rhinoplasty enables a patient to see an approximation of how their surgical rhinoplasty will look—before undergoing surgery. This 3D imaging will allow you the most complete view of how your nose could look after your procedure, and enables you and Dr. Miller to discuss more concretely your goals for your results.

Schedule Your Rhinoplasty Consultation in NYC Today

If you want to restore youthfulness to your face with a rhinoplasty, contact our Manhattan office today to schedule your consultation, or request a virtual appointment.

Dr. Phillip Miller Restores Confidence for Domestic Violence Survivors With Pro Bono Surgeries

As we near October, many are thinking about how they can spread awareness of breast cancer, but at Gotham Plastic Surgery and for others, October is also known as Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Started in 1981 by the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, this month has proven to be critical in gaining momentum to helping victims of domestic violence, and Dr. Phillip Miller has taken a prominent stance in ensuring he is playing a part in providing assistance and solutions. 

Face to Face: The Domestic Violence Project delivers pro bono facial plastic and reconstructive surgery to domestic violence survivors. The aim is to repair injuries to the face, head, and neck that are the result of violence brought forth by a partner.

Though the goal is to be able to physically address and repair the outward damage caused by a partner, there are other motives behind this work. In addressing the damage and providing necessary reconstructive work, another underlying goal is also met: empowering those who have been affected, thus freeing them from harmful situations and helping them live successful lives. Since the program began in 1994, more than 1,000 women in need have been helped.

Dr. Phllip Miller of Gotham Plastic Surgery volunteers his time and talent to this project, offering relief and empowerment to victims of domestic assault. Dr. Miller specializes in facial plastic surgery in New York and is recognized as an expert in rhinoplasty and facial rejuvenation procedures, so he is able to provide an expert level of care to patients within the program. Dr. Miller is even voted among the Best Doctors in America consistently since 2007 and Top Doctor of New York.

facial reconstructive plastic surgery in new york

Dr. Phillip Miller’s Helping Hands: Carla’s Story

In 2010, Carla was met with an attempt to end her life by her partner. Having to wear scarves to hide the scars on her neck brought on by the attack, she lost confidence and happiness. One scar measured to be a 4 inch vertical mark, and there were several other horizontal scars. 

Without Face to Face, a surgery to heal these scars would have cost Carla approximately $8,000. But with the program’s help, Carla received treatment from Philip Miller, MD FACS, and regained some of what she had lost. 

“There’s an increase in confidence, there’s an increase in self-esteem. There is a sense of closure,” Dr. Miller said in an interview with NBC7 about the transformation he’s seen after a survivor receives treatment through this program.

In the interview, we see Dr. Miller address Carla, reminding her that though sharing her story will help encourage others, the pro bono treatment was for her to enjoy most of all.

Carla says that the first thing she would do post-surgery was purchase a necklace, no longer feeling the need to hide behind scarves. The successful results of the surgery allowed for Carla to finally shed her neck scarves and reveal her beautiful, healed neck. To watch her interview on NBC7, click here.

rhinoplasty nose surgery patient in new york

Susan’s Story

When philanthropic acts begin, it is hard to stop them; and for good reason. Dr. Phillip Miller has gone on to help a number of other survivors of domestic abuse, including Susan. Susan had an abusive partner who, during their relationship, broke her nose and tore her ear. 

Though finding the strength, bravery, and opportunity to remove herself from the situation, Susan still lost quite a bit of confidence. Reaching out to Face to Face, Susan met Dr. Miller and received her own transformation.

Dr. Miller performed a rhinoplasty to fix her nose and an ear surgery to restore her torn ear. The combined surgeries would have cost Susan thousands of dollars. But the charitable acts of Dr. Miller and the many surgeons who volunteer within this charity allow for real internal and external transformations for those who turn to this program for help, at no cost to the patients.

“The fact that I can look in the mirror now and see myself for who I really am, and not what that monster did to me every day, is very empowering,” Susan said when providing her testimony to Dr. Miller. “I feel like I won now, and I took my power back.”

Providing corrective surgery to alleviate the scars, the damage, and the ghastly reminders of traumatic events left on survivors from their partners, is a rewarding feat for everyone involved. While the survivors of domestic abuse have the opportunity to reclaim their power, confidence, and sense of self, Dr. Phillip Miller has the opportunity to pave a new path for each patient.

Dr. Miller is considered one of the country’s leading experts in rhinoplasty and facial rejuvenation. He is double board-certified in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, as well as otolaryngology/head and neck surgery, and he’s even written chapters for rhinoplasty and neck rejuvenation textbooks, which means Carla and Susan received the best care possible.

Face to Face: The Domestic Violence project has been around for nearly 30 years, with a number of plastic surgeons ready to assist these survivors. With one million women requiring medical attention from domestic assault each year, out of the five million women who are affected, they are touched by the helping hands of each surgeon that aims to deliver new freedoms to these survivors. To watch her testimony video, click here.

Contact Our New York Facial Plastic Surgery Office Today

Call our office at (646) 791-3025 or contact us here to find out more about Face to Face or to schedule a consultation for your plastic surgery needs, for expert results by expert surgeons.

Look and Feel Your Best for Your New York Wedding

Without question, your wedding day is going to be one of the most special and memorable events of your life. Not only is it the day when you and your beloved make a heartfelt commitment to each other in front of your family and friends, but it’s also a day that will be undoubtedly immortalized in dozens of beautiful professional photos and a high-end video, too.

Of course, you want to look your best for your partner. But you also want to look your best for posterity. That’s why a wedding gives you the perfect opportunity to indulge in the ultimate head-to-toe makeover.

But just as a perfect wedding takes planning, so does a perfect wedding makeover. You don’t want to be healing from lip injections when the photographer catches a candid shot. Nor should you get fitted for your wedding dress or tux before you’ve sculpted your ideal figure!

If looking your best is part of your wedding plans, Dr. Phillip J. Miller and his team of experts in New York City can help. Below are some of their most popular pre-wedding treatments, along with a timeline that will give you the ideal time-frame as to when you should schedule!  

Re-shape your nose

Rhinoplasty

nose surgery before and after in new york If rhinoplasty is part of your journey toward facial harmony, you need to schedule that as far in advance as you do an ideal venue. To fully heal from a surgical rhinoplasty, you need to allow about one year. 

Schedule: More than a year before your wedding day.

Non-surgical Rhinoplasty

But if you’ve already past the deadline, don’t despair: A non-surgical rhinoplasty might be all you need to create the most flattering profile of your life. Dr. Miller has developed a non-surgical rhinoplasty that utilizes dermal fillers to correct nasal defects in just minutes. A quick and pain-free non-surgical rhinoplasty can create beautiful changes, including:

  • Evening out a nose-bump
  • Correcting small dips
  • Correcting asymmetries

Straightening your nose with injectable dermal fillers may even make it appear shorter. A non-surgical rhinoplasty only takes a few minutes and doesn’t cause any pain or swelling. Results can last for 18-24 months.

Schedule: Several weeks before the wedding.

Eliminate Loose Skin

Facelift

Facelift, neck lift, dermabrasion and earlobe repair to enhance the appearance of a female patient by Dr. Miller.

If you’re in the market for a full-on surgical facelift, make sure you leave at least six months to heal. Like a surgical rhinoplasty, a surgical facelift is a long-term project that has lifetime results. Once you turn back the hands of time, you continue to age from that prior stage, looking 10 years younger than your peers (provided they’re not also patients of Dr. Miller’s, of course!).

Schedule: More than one year before your wedding.

Micro-lift

If you’re still in your 20s or 30s, you could benefit from a Micro Lift, which mimics the result of wearing a tight ponytail. In this skin-only facelift, Dr. Miller makes a small incision in front of your ear and lifts from there. Results are subtle but permanent.

Schedule: At least two months before your wedding

Face-Tite

Dr. Miller and his team also have a bouquet of non-surgical face-lifting methods to lift sagging skin and spirits. You can look younger than you ever dreamed of by rejuvenating your skin with:

Face-Tite™ — A combination of mini liposuction and radiofrequency (RF) energy, Face-Tite sculpts away sagging, aging fat from your eyebags, jowls, chin, and neck while tightening your skin. You can tighten every area of your face from brow to neck.

Schedule: At least six weeks before the wedding. You’ll see amazing results by then, though your skin grows tighter and firmer for up to a year. 

Ultherapy

Ultherapy® — This non-surgical face and neck tightening procedure relies on the power of ultrasound waves to heat your collagen, which both contracts it and stimulates your body to create new collagen. Depending on how severe your skin sagging is, you may need more than one treatment. Ultherapy works with your body’s healing and rebuilding capabilities, so it takes several months before you see the degree of tightening and firming that you desire.

Schedule: At least three months before the wedding for one treatment, or seven months for two treatments.

Miller Lift

Micro Lift to address skin laxity and other early signs of aging in a female patient by Dr. Miller

Miller Lift — This non-surgical liquid facelift uses nothing but injectable dermal fillers and Botox® to re-contour and lift your face to a more youthful position. You can erase frown lines and nasolabial folds, while lifting and building your midface and cheekbones.

Schedule: Two weeks before your wedding.

Touch up trouble spots

New York Botox Wrinkle Treatment Whether you’ve opted for other treatments or not, to create a portrait-perfect face you may want to smooth out your brow and fill in creases and wrinkles. We custom-design a treatment plan with dermal fillers and Botox to give you the smooth, silky skin that you (and your makeup artist) deserve. Botox lasts between 3-4 months. Dermal fillers can last for up to a year.

Schedule: 2 weeks before your wedding for fillers

Get an extra glow

You’ll already be glowing from excitement and fulfillment when the Big Day arrives. But you can boost your luminance with skin treatments that detoxify your skin, slough off old skin cells and resolve acne scars and dark spots. Our aestheticians choose from a variety of med spa treatments that are right for your skin type and problem areas. Many treatments have the added benefit of tightening your skin, too. 

Schedule: A week or two before your wedding.

Sculpt your Body

Don’t rely on Spanx to create your perfect wedding silhouette, or on willpower either, as indicated by this study. Sculpting away excess fat and tightening your muscles ensures you’ll look amazing both in your dress or tux and in your wedding night lingerie (and out of it, too). 

CoolSculpting® — If you’d rather eliminate fat without any kind of incisions or downtime, a series of up to three CoolSculpting treatments freezes off excess bulges, including muffin tops and thunder thighs. Leave about a month between treatments. To learn more about CoolSculpting, visit ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Schedule: At least six months in advance of your wedding.

Schedule Your New York Wedding Treatment Today

You don’t need a wedding planner for your perfect wedding look. Just say “I Do” to a pre-wedding makeover by calling our Manhattan office at 646-791-3025 for a consultation or book online today. 

What’s Behind the Sudden Rise in Rhinoplasty Popularity?

Social media is a very visual medium –it’s a virtual place to see and be seen. Therefore, it’s no surprise how daily postings can somehow fuel our vanity or our quest for having the perfect selfie. Did you know that selfies can make your nose look about 30% larger? It’s because of how the camera on the phone distorts objects up close. Due to this, some people are convinced that no photo-editing app is good enough to make themselves and their noses look flawless and that undergoing plastic surgery is the only key to achieving social media-approved beauty. This has led to a meteoric rise in the popularity of rhinoplasty, also known as a “nose job.” 

Despite the apparent popularity of rhinoplasties, you should have a keen awareness that not just any surgeon is right for the job. One of the most crucial steps in guaranteeing a satisfactory nose procedure outcome is choosing the right surgeon. Rhinoplasty is one of the most challenging cosmetic procedures to perform, so you should only trust a surgeon with rhinoplasty expertise, experience, and skill. A great surgeon is also a good listener, a compassionate and patient caregiver, and an effective communicator.

For patients in New York City who seek a nose job with reasonable expectations and their desire comes from a “healthy place”—perhaps, to improve self-esteem or to correct a functional issue – facial plastic surgeon Dr. Philip Miller will combine his expertise and skill with his artistic eye to produce impeccable results that are life-changing.

Surgical And Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty Options

before and after of a rhinoplasty in new york

Your nose is one of the most prominent features of the face as it brings balance to your facial profile.  That’s why it’s often the first thing people notice on your face. If you feel that your nose detracts from your whole face, diminishing the beauty of your eyes or other facial features, and more importantly, if you have trouble breathing, you may be a candidate for a rhinoplasty.

Voted among the Best Doctors in America and Top Doctor of New York since 2007, Dr. Miller has lectured on cutting edge rhinoplasty techniques, including his innovative NatraNose procedure,  and even written chapters for rhinoplasty and neck rejuvenation textbooks. He can provide custom cosmetic treatment plans that include a combination of advanced procedures and minimally-invasive techniques to help you achieve your desired results.

Which Nasal Procedure Is Right For You?

Nose shaping was the third most popular cosmetic surgical procedure performed in 2018 according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons report, so it is important to know the facts of what rhinoplasty means and the process behind the types of procedures. Each procedure will have its own set of advantages. While a non-surgical nose job will involve no pain, no recovery time, no scarring, and will cost less than a traditional rhinoplasty, it cannot address all nasal issues. A non-surgical rhinoplasty utilizes injectables, and injectables can only be used for augmentation and not a reduction. For larger cosmetic nose concerns, surgical rhinoplasty is still the best long-term solution. 

As a leading rhinoplasty surgeon who has devoted most of his career to the human nose, Dr. Miller can help recommend the best approach to achieve your aesthetic goals. He can even use virtual rhinoplasty to help you visualize nose job results from the comfort of his office. Virtual Rhinoplasty uses the latest in technology and computer imaging to provide patients with the ability to see what the results will look like even before undergoing any procedure. This gives you the opportunity to explore how different changes to your nose will impact the final results.

One major benefit of this technology is that it provides a visual tool for communication between surgeon and patient. This will help Dr. Miller understand your nose job goals as well as make the necessary recommendations that will ensure that both of you are on the same page before any procedure begins.

Rhinoplasty before and after of a female rhinoplasty in new york

A rhinoplasty can change the shape of your entire nose or just a small portion of it with the goal of making it fit more harmoniously with the rest of the face. These are the specific changes often requested during a nose job:

  • Improve the crooked appearance of the nose to achieve symmetry
  • Remove a bump or hump in the nose
  • Reduce the size of the nose
  • Increase the size of the nose
  • Reshape the nose
  • Narrow or refine the nasal tip
  • Alter the tip projection
  • Reduce Wide Nostrils

The 1 ½ – 2 ½ hour procedure may be done either under general anesthesia or under sedation. Most incisions are made inside the nostrils, or a small one made along the natural creases found on the sides or near the base of the nose.

Skin is then lifted from the underlying cartilage and bone, and the nose is recontoured and reconstructed. The incisions heal quickly and leave scars that are nearly invisible. Dr. Miller also offers variations of his nose surgery procedures depending on your age, gender, ethnicity, and desired goals. Examples are Teen Rhinoplasty, Male Rhinoplasty, MicroRhinoplasty, Ethnic Rhinoplasty, and Revision Rhinoplasty.

Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty

Not everyone will need surgical rhinoplasty. As one of New York City’s top rhinoplasty surgeons, Dr. Miller understands that not every patient who desires to alter their nose will need invasive surgery to achieve dramatic results. For patients like these, or for those not ready for surgery and would like something temporary, Dr. Miller has developed a specialized area of practice that will give you the transformation you want using non-surgical methods.

Also referred to as a liquid rhinoplasty, a non-surgical nose job allows surgeons to alter the nose’s shape, size, the position of the nasal tip, or to hide bumps. It is a quick, pain-free alternative to invasive surgeries for correcting undesirable noise characteristics.

Hyaluronic acid fillers such as Restylane, Perlane, and Juvéderm are the preferred injectables for a liquid rhinoplasty. They are the easiest to mold and shape, and can be removed within 24 hours should you wish to have the results reversed. Radiesse may also be used under certain circumstances. When injected, these fillers will smooth and contour the existing nasal structure, helping you achieve a nose that creates facial balance and harmony. Results can last up to a year before the procedure needs to be repeated to maintain optimal results.

Consult With A Rhinoplasty Expert In New York

Double board-certified in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery as well as Otolaryngology/Head & Neck Surgery, Dr. Philip Miller is one of the country’s leading experts in rhinoplasty and facial rejuvenation. As a renowned facial plastic surgeon who trained as an ear, nose, and throat specialist, Dr. Miller has extensive experience dealing with the nose. For more than two decades in Manhattan, he has dedicated his career to providing patients with customized surgical and non-surgical facial procedures. To learn more, contact Dr. Miller today.

The Truth About Snapchat Dysmorphia

In addition to adorable puppy ears, floral headpieces, and new pairs of sunglasses to try on, Snapchat also offers face-perfecting filters that instantly smooth out your skin and give you bigger eyes, a smaller nose, and a thinner face. While it may seem all fun and games at first, teenagers can become obsessed with their filtered selfies and may go to great, social media-approved lengths to be able to “Facetune” their faces in real life, with the help of a cosmetic surgeon. Those who choose to undergo plastic surgery in New York City to look like their pixel-perfect selfies may be suffering from an underlying mental health condition called Snapchat Dysmorphia.

What Is Snapchat Dysmorphia?

Social media platforms like Snapchat and Instagram and photo-editing apps like Facetune are contributing to a dangerous trend where people are feeling insecure about not looking as beautiful and flawless as their own filtered selves that have garnered ego-boosting hearts and “likes” from their followers.  

Dubbed as “Snapchat Dysmorphia” by a group of dermatologists at Boston University, this new phenomenon has patients seeking out cosmetic surgeries in an attempt to look identical with the filtered versions of themselves –with a thinner nose, bigger eyes, and fuller lips. The paper which was published in the JAMA Facial Plastic Surgery Viewpoint also mentions how Snapchat Dysmorphia is a new twist on the condition known as Body Dysmorphic Disorder in which people have an excessive preoccupation with their perceived flaws. What is happening right now is a significant rise in “selfie” surgery requests and instead of patients bringing in photos of celebrities who possess their ideal nose or face shape, they are now presenting highly-edited selfies fit for an airbrushed cover of a glossy magazine. “This is an alarming trend because those filtered selfies often present an unattainable look and are blurring the line of reality and fantasy for these patients,” the paper read. 

Social media, it seems, is shaping our concept of beauty and is putting the spotlight on our flaws as we attempt to achieve physical perfection offline. No matter how advanced and innovative the techniques in plastic surgery are today, attempting to measure up to your altered images can be unrealistic, unattainable, and unhealthy. This is why it is important that you consult with a double-board certified facial plastic surgeon like Dr. Philip Miller. Dr. Miller and his team can help you achieve healthy aesthetic changes that can highlight your natural, unfiltered beauty. 

No Filter Needed

Dr. Miller and his New York team can help you healthily achieve your aesthetic goals. His expertise ensures you will have a natural and refreshed look, not just what you see in altered and heavily filter pictures. 

 Dr. Miller has a variety of options, from surgical procedures such as rhinoplasty, neck lift, chin implant, jawline augmentation, and otoplasty, to non-surgical options that can be done over a lunch break.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options

Some of the best available treatments today don’t even need a scalpel and can be done in a lunch hour with minimal downtime. And what is brilliant about these non-surgical procedures is that you will still look like yourself –just fresher, younger, and more radiant with glowing skin, a sharper nose, and a taut jawline. These are the non-surgical face and skin-transforming treatments that can be performed by Dr. Miller:

Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty 

Also referred to as a liquid rhinoplasty, a non-surgical nose job allows the surgeon to subtly alter the nose’s size, shape, position of the nasal tip, as well as straighten the nose and hide bumps through the use of injectable fillers. 

A non-surgical nose job is a pain-free alternative to surgical procedures for correcting undesirable nasal characteristics. And since injectable fillers are used, the results are immediate. In addition, if you are unsatisfied with the results, the fillers can be dissolved within 24 hours. Non-surgical rhinoplasty has no long-term effects, making you a potential candidate for a traditional rhinoplasty in the future should you still desire to undergo the procedure. A MicroRhinoplasty™ is a less invasive alternative to a traditional rhinoplasty as well. 

Dr. Miller is considered one of the country’s leading experts in rhinoplasty and facial rejuvenation and has even lectured on innovative rhinoplasty techniques as well as written chapters for rhinoplasty textbooks. 

Botox 

Those who want to look more youthful by smoothing their fine lines and wrinkles are good candidates for Botox injections. FDA-approved to treat crow’s feet and frown lines, Botox works by blocking nerve impulses to the facial muscles, causing dynamic wrinkles to soften and relax. Skin will appear smoother and less wrinkled, giving you a refreshed and rejuvenated appearance.

Dermal Fillers 

With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Miller is recognized as an expert in facial rejuvenation procedures, including filler injections. Dermal fillers are made from hyaluronic acid (HA) which is a natural substance within the skin that’s responsible for keeping the skin supple and hydrated while adding volume. We lose HA as we age, resulting in skin’s lack of moisture, strength, and volume. When injected into the skin (cheeks, around the eyes and mouth area, chin, or lips), fillers will replace lost volume to plump and contour the face. Examples of dermal fillers include Juvéderm and its products (Voluma, Ultra, Ultra Plus, and Volbella), Restylane, and Radiesse (calcium hydroxylapatite).

Dermal fillers combined with Botox can work wonders in rejuvenating the face. They create a powerful anti-aging treatment that gives the face a natural lift as they relax and fill in those lines, wrinkles, and hollow areas while redefining the contours of the face. 

Treatments For Skin Resurfacing and Tightening

Laser, light, and energy devices can help address signs of aging such as fine lines and wrinkles, blemishes, and pigmentation through short and direct pulsating beams of light that create heat points or micro-injuries in various depths of the skin, triggering the skin’s natural healing process. Skin becomes smoother, tighter, and clearer, with improved tone and texture. Examples of treatments include:

  • CO2 Resurfacing Laser Treatment – creates microscopic treatment areas where shafts of intense light penetrate into the deeper layers of the skin. During the healing process, old, damaged skin is replaced with new skin that is smoother, tighter, and more radiant. The laser effectively treats acne scars, blotchy skin, deeper wrinkles, and scars from surgery or trauma. 
  • Ultherapy – Dr. Miller is among the first in New York City to offer the Ultherapy treatment for toning and lifting loose, lax skin without any downtime. It uses safe ultrasound energy to trigger collagen production, resulting in tighter skin and a more youthful, contoured appearance on the brow, chin, and neck. 
  • Fractora & Fractora Firm – Fractora utilizes fractional radiofrequency technology to resurface the skin, effectively correcting common skin concerns such as fine lines and deep wrinkles, redness, brown spots, visible blood vessels, and poor skin texture. On the other hand, Fractora Firm is an advanced skin rejuvenation treatment that uses thermal energy to deeply heat beneath the skin, stimulating collagen formation which results in tighter, more youthful, and glowing skin.

Choosing the Right Surgeon

Focusing exclusively on the face for more than two decades in New York City, double board-certified facial plastic surgeon Dr. Philip Miller seamlessly blends art and science with skill and innovation to provide his thousands of patients with impeccable results. With his compassionate and empathetic approach to treating patients, he will work with you to highlight your best attributes instead of focusing on your flaws. And with the many non-surgical procedures he can perform, transformation need not be drastic. Enhancing your features could mean subtle yet beautiful, natural-looking results that will help you achieve the best version of yourself.

Consult With New York’s Facial Plastic Surgery Specialist

Dr. Philip Miller and his team of top-rated facial plastic surgery experts can provide you with a custom cosmetic treatment plan consisting of a combination of advanced, non-surgical procedures that will help you achieve the Aesthetic Confidence you desire. To learn more, contact Dr. Miller today. 

Why Requesting A Celebrity’s Nose Isn’t Always Best for Rhinoplasty Goals

Rhinoplasty before and after new york A rhinoplasty, more commonly known as a nose job in New York, is treated by most people as a simple act of shopping –that is, purchasing a new nose. I know it sounds easy and straightforward.  It begins by you wanting to correct an issue with your nose. So, you browse through social media and “shop” for the celebrity nose you like, then set an appointment with your surgeon

Simple, right? Not really. Whenever you plan on undergoing invasive cosmetic changes, there is one crucial factor that must be addressed: your EXPECTATIONS for your surgery. In this blog, I share some of my tips for managing your expectations about getting a nose job and one crucial element for getting the nose you will love.

Only Use Celebrity Noses As Inspiration 

During a rhinoplasty consultation, I ask my patients to thoroughly discuss their desired results. This way, we can share a Unified Vision. A Unified Vision incorporates the patient’s aesthetic goals along with what I deem is surgically feasible with their given anatomy. Often times when we find certain individuals attractive, we naturally go about wanting to emulate their facial features. Celebrities under the spotlight often have variants of a slim, dainty nose that is turned-up, a.k.a. the celestial or “button nose.” My patients often bring in photos of celebrities; Jennifer Lopez, Kim Kardashian-West, Scarlett Johansson, Angelina Jolie, and Meghan Markle are amongst the most popular rhinoplasty examples.. Patients like to come prepared and bring in these photos as a point of reference for how they’d like their noses to turn out. I prefer my patients to bring in these photos because I use them as an effective communication tool to determine what the patient desires, as well as to see how realistic their expectations are.

The Goal of Rhinoplasty

I explain to my patients that the goal of a rhinoplasty procedure is to reshape the nose to create an overall improvement to the facial structure and aesthetic. In other words, a nose job can help you improve the balance of your facial features which ultimately will increase your self-confidence. But don’t expect that someone else’s nose will look right for your face. It should not be your goal to match somebody else’s appearance, but only take them as a source of inspiration. Everybody is unique in their facial features and therefore, should also be treated as such. I help my patients create a natural-looking nose that will complement their features and honor their ethnicity, rather than give them a “cookie-cutter nose” from a celebrity. To learn more about rhinoplasty, visit medlineplus.gov

Managing Realistic Expectations

male rhinoplasty patient in new york There is no such thing as a perfect nose because “perfect” has a fluid and subjective definition. It will depend on the patient’s facial structure, size, and balance. Facial plastic surgeons can produce amazing results through modern rhinoplasty techniques, but there are always limitations. Going back to having a celebrity nose –if you specifically want to have a Meghan Markle nose, you’d probably end up having to alter your entire facial structure instead of just your nose. It is very important to have an open mind during your consultation so you can listen to your surgeon’s recommendations on what the “perfect” nose is for YOU. By understanding the procedure and having a more thoughtful and practical approach to your results, you will be giving yourself a better chance of having complete satisfaction with your rhinoplasty outcome. 

Consult With A Recognized Expert In Facial Plastic Surgery

Your realistic expectations for your nose job will serve as the foundation for your cosmetic surgery. And as the surgeon, I will become the foundation of its success. Rhinoplasty is a complex surgical procedure that requires experience, expert knowledge, and top-notch skills. To set yourself up for a successful journey, begin by choosing the best facial plastic surgeon. You can review the criteria here.  

I am double board-certified in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, as well as Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery, and am considered one of the country’s leading experts in facial rejuvenation and rhinoplasty. I have lectured on innovative rhinoplasty techniques at the 10th International Symposium of Facial Plastic Surgery, and consistently since 2007, have been voted among the “Best Doctors in America” and “Top Doctor of New York.” It is my goal to help my patients find a look that makes them feel beautiful and confident. I combine my expertise, experience, skill, and artistic eye to deliver those life-changing results.

Are You Interested in a Rhinoplasty Consultation?

If you are interested in undergoing rhinoplasty, always remember to only trust your face to a world-class board-certified facial plastic surgeon, and be sure to communicate your expectations to achieve the most realistic outcome. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Miller, contact his office located at 60 East 56th Street, Third Floor in New York City, by calling (646) 791-3025

 

Read Next: Why Revision Rhinoplasties are So Common

When a Deal is No Deal: The Cost of a Quality Rhinoplasty

infographic explaining what the insurance covers for a functional rhinoplasty in NY, NY

You’re ready to reshape your nose and light up your entire face with an expertly performed rhinoplasty. You want to make sure you get the most flattering, natural-looking results possible. But you’re also concerned about the cost. Is it time to search through Groupon deals, or book a trip to another country for bargain-basement surgery? While we understand wanting to save money, there is a time and a place for choosing a service based on the lowest price. Surgery for your face isn’t one of them.

If you’re savvy about your finances, you already know that so-called “bargains” can ultimately cost more than quality goods. That’s especially true when it comes to rhinoplasty, which is one of the most complex cosmetic facial plastic surgeries performed today.

Because your nose is the central feature of your face, you can’t hide surgical mistakes or hope that no one notices them. You need to get it right the first time, to save yourself both money and emotional distress. Keep in mind that the nose is also a vital organ and an essential part of your respiratory system. It is imperative that it still functions well after surgery.

Find Out How Much Your Rhinoplasty Would Cost 

Cost of Rhinoplasty by Type In New York

Infographic titled “What is the national average cost?” showing four panels of cosmetic procedure prices: Primary Rhinoplasty, Revision/Multiple Revision, Non Surgical/Liquid, and Functional. Each panel has a horizontal price scale from $0K to about $60K with tick marks indicating typical costs in the United States. The Functional panel includes a note “Covered by Insurance,” and a caption at the bottom reads “Market prices vary in the United States.”
Primary Rhinoplasty$8,000-$27,000
Non-Surgical/Liquid Rhinoplasty$750-$3,500
Revision Rhinoplasty$9,500-$32,000
Functional Rhinoplasty (Septorhinoplasty)Can be submitted to insurance for reimbursement

When estimating the cost of rhinoplasty in New York, begin by determining which type of rhinoplasty procedure will meet your needs best. To help patients interested in rhinoplasty, Dr. Miller offers the following information:

Primary Rhinoplasty

When you have never had a nose job in the past, the procedure is considered primary rhinoplasty. 

rhinoplasty before and after results in NYC

You might also opt for tip plasty, which is less expensive, but only improves the look, angle or shape of the nasal tip.

The nose is a highly complex, finely sculpted structure that consists of a variety of tissue types, including skin, cartilage, and bone. Lack of expertise working with any of these mediums can result in a nose that heals incorrectly and calls unwanted attention to itself. However, a beautifully executed rhinoplasty corrects defects in the size, shape, and angle of your nose.

With an expert facial plastic surgeon such as Dr. Miller, you can expect aesthetic improvements such as:

  • Shorter nose
  • Straighter nose
  • Removal of bumps
  • More symmetrical nostrils
  • Thinner or wider nostrils
  • Thinner nose
  • Larger nose
  • More defined tip
  • Nose proportionate to other facial features

Ideally, your primary rhinoplasty is so successful that you never need revision rhinoplasties, and, after your healing period of up to two years, your new nose is everything you ever dreamed it would be. In reality, if you choose the wrong surgeon, you could need at least one revision and potentially more. In fact, up to 10% of patients who undergo rhinoplasty will seek out a revision procedure. To learn more about rhinoplasty, visit medlineplus.gov.

Revision Rhinoplasty

A surgeon who is not board-certified as a facial plastic surgeon, or even a plastic surgeon who doesn’t specialize in rhinoplasty, can leave you with a nose that looks worse than your original nose. Revision surgery may cost between $9,500 to $32,000 to improve your initial results.

Keep in mind that it can take up to a full year to heal after rhinoplasty and determine whether a revision is necessary. Common reasons for needing a revision rhinoplasty include:

  • Too much cartilage removed (collapsed nose)
  • Over-rotated tip (pig-like nose)
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Drooping tip
  • Crooked nose
  • Asymmetric nostrils
  • Nose doesn’t harmonize with facial features
  • Nose is inappropriate for ethnicity or gender

If your surgeon botched your primary rhinoplasty, you could require multiple revision rhinoplasties to achieve the result you want. When the mistake is minor and you are comfortable returning to your original surgeon for revision, you may not be charged, or you could pay a reduced price.

If you’ve changed your mind about what you want, or if the mistake is so grave that you no longer trust your surgeon, you may have to pay substantially more for a new surgeon and surgery. That’s why seeking out a bargain for your first rhinoplasty isn’t a cost-effective choice.

As complex as a primary rhinoplasty is, revision rhinoplasty is even more challenging. Even a well-executed primary rhinoplasty creates scar tissue in your nose. A nose job that is poorly done could leave a significant amount of scar tissue, while creating structural problems that may be difficult to rectify.

If you need a revision rhinoplasty, it is imperative that you find a surgeon who specializes in this procedure. The quality of your cartilage, bone, and skin have already been compromised by your first surgeon. You now require expertise to compensate for that structural damage. Dr. Miller is an expert at correcting mistakes made by other surgeons and giving you the nose you want and deserve.

Non Surgical Rhinoplasty

Non surgical rhinoplasty costs about 10 times less than a surgical nose job. Charges range from $750 to about $3,500, depending on your location, the expertise of your surgeon, and the amount of filler that’s required to improve your nose. The best candidate for nonsurgical rhinoplasty is a man or woman who is happy with the length and shape of the nose but would like to address bumps or asymmetries. This procedure is accomplished with the aid of hyaluronic acid-based dermal fillers.

Dr. Miller also uses liquid rhinoplasty to reshape and reposition your nasal tip and recontour your nose. Other than some possible soreness and swelling directly after the injections, you will not have any required downtime, and side effects are unlikely. You may also see immediate results, and if you don’t like them, the filler can be dissolved.

Even though non surgical rhinoplasty is much less complex than rhinoplasty surgery, it still requires knowledge about facial anatomy, aesthetics, and harmony. Don’t trust your liquid rhinoplasty to an inexperienced provider. Select a board-certified doctor who is qualified to produce the best possible results for you.

If you’re nervous about rhinoplasty or you want to make some improvements to your nose while saving up for primary rhinoplasty surgery, nonsurgical rhinoplasty with dermal fillers is a great way to ease into a nose job. Many women and men opt for a nonsurgical nose job first, as a way of “auditioning” a potential new nose shape. Others are so happy with their results that they continue touching-up their nose with fillers, without ever having to undergo surgery. However, you’ll need to have follow-up treatments to maintain your results, whereas a surgical procedure provides permanent results.

Septoplasty (functional nose job)

If you have a deviated septum, your septum (the nasal bone and cartilage that divide your nose in half) takes up extra space in one of your nostrils, making it hard to breathe. Many women and men require a septoplasty in addition to their desire for cosmetic rhinoplasty. A septoplasty alone will not improve the aesthetics of the nose, but since a deviated septum is a medical condition that impairs your ability to take in full breaths through your nose, your septoplasty may be covered by your medical insurance.

When you combine rhinoplasty with septoplasty, only the portion of the operation that’s medically necessary is eligible for insurance coverage. Aesthetic improvements are not eligible for coverage or reimbursement. Never trust an unethical surgeon who tells you your cosmetic procedure will be covered or try to manipulate the system to pay for your cosmetic surgery.

Choosing Your Rhinoplasty Surgeon infographic about why Doctor Phillip Miller is a top rhinoplasty surgeon in NYC, NY

Philip J. Miller, MD, FACS is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon in New York City who specializes in rhinoplasty. He has lectured on innovative rhinoplasty techniques at the International Symposium of Facial Plastic Surgery, written chapters on rhinoplasty for medical textbooks, and specializes in his patented NatraNose® approach to rhinoplasty procedures.

Dr. Miller’s Nasal Surgery Research and Scientific Papers

Structural Approach to Endonasal Rhinoplasty (view here)
Anil R. Shah, MD and Philip J. Miller, MD, FACS

New Developments in Nasal Valve Analysis and Functional Nasal Surgery (view here)
Philip J. Miller, MD, FACS and Dr. Minas Constantinides, MD, FACS

A Simple and Reliable Method of Patient Evaluation in the Surgical Treatment of Nasal Obstruction (view here)
Philip J. Miller, MD, FACS, Dr. Minas Constantinides, MD, and Dr. Susanne K. Doud Galli, MD, PhD

Schedule A Consultation With Dr. Miller 

What you’re paying for

In addition to paying for the expertise and skill of your surgeon, rhinoplasty has several other expenses to consider when making a final decision based on price:

Your procedure may vary depending on how complex and difficult it is. Dr. Miller’s quotes are always all-inclusive, and include the following:

  • Surgeon’s fee
  • Anesthesiologist’s fee
  • Anesthesia
  • Surgical center
  • Postsurgical care (follow up visits and tests)
  • Medication-related to surgery
  • Bandages and wraps

Dr. Miller has the advantage of his own surgical suite, which helps you avoid an expensive hospital stay. When consulting with other facial plastic surgeons who specialize in rhinoplasty, always ask for a complete breakdown of their price, so you won’t be surprised by add-ons in the end.

When considering the total cost of your rhinoplasty, remember to factor in the cost of recovery.  You’ll need to take time off from work, and arrange for help with your house and kids. For additional information, please visit our rhinoplasty and nose job booklet.

When a Bargain isn’t a Bargain

If you’re savvy about your finances, you already know that so-called “bargains” can ultimately cost more than quality goods. That’s especially true when it comes to rhinoplasty, which is one of the most complex cosmetic facial plastic surgeries performed today.

Because your nose is the central feature of your face, you can’t hide surgical mistakes or hope that no one notices them. You need to get it right the first time, to save yourself money and emotional distress. Keep in mind that the nose is also a vital organ and an essential part of your respiratory system. It is imperative that it still functions well after surgery. Only an expert can ensure the best result.

Schedule a Rhinoplasty Consultation Today

To set up a consultation with an expert in rhinoplasty so you can have an aesthetically pleasing, well-formed nose and the Aesthetic Confidence® it inspires, contact Dr. Miller today.

5 Tips for Your Rhinoplasty Recovery

Image of a male model standing in New York City

Planning your rhinoplasty procedure? Starting to feel nervous? Don’t worry! It’s normal to feel a mixture of excitement and anxiety before your procedure, and you’re probably speculating on how you’ll look and feel after your undergo the surgery.

While most people find that the recovery process isn’t as bad as they expected, it still pays to be prepared and set yourself up for a comfortable recovery and a beautiful result. Here are 5 tips for ensuring that your rhinoplasty recovery goes as smoothly as possible.

Tip #1: Give Yourself Enough Recovery Time

When you’re planning your recovery period, you may think that you don’t need the full 1-2 weeks of recovery time recommended by most surgeons. However, even if you feel fairly normal after the first few days, it’s important to give your body the rest it needs to recover and heal. Block off at least 10 days for the process. When you’re ready, start resuming normal activities slowly—it doesn’t pay to overdo things. Additionally, you may have some bruising during the first few weeks, which may not have you feeling very social!

Tip #2: Set up a Dedicated Recovery Area

You won’t be able to go about your normal routines during your recovery, so it’s a good idea to anticipate what you’ll need before you need it. The day before your surgery, set up a dedicated recovery area to maximize your comfort and rest.

You’ll need to sleep with your head elevated above your heart initially (to reduce swelling and to keep the nose from shifting), so it’s best to outfit an easy chair with pillows and blankets. If you don’t have a suitable chair, your bed will work as long as you add extra pillows and something to stabilize you as you sleep (such as pillows on either side of you). Make sure you have ice packs ready, along with books, magazines, or other entertainment close at hand. Finally, make sure you have your painkillers close at hand to help control any discomfort.

Tip #3: Plan Ahead for Meals

It’s easy to default to takeout when you’re not feeling well enough to cook, but salty or sugary junk food and takeout won’t cut it when you’re recovering from surgery. You need nutritious food for cellular renewal, and it’s best to prep your food ahead to make sure you’re fueling your recovery properly.

Try make-ahead recipes that can be frozen or refrigerated. That way, when it’s dinnertime, all you’ll have to do is pop a meal into the microwave with no additional hassle. Frozen meals can also often be heated in a slow cooker all day so dinner is ready by evening.

Tip #4: Take Your Meds

While it may be tempting to skip your meds and just suffer through any discomfort, this approach really doesn’t do you any favors. Take your meds according to your doctor’s guidelines, and just make sure you’re not taking more of them than you’re supposed to.

Tip #5: Treat Your Nose with Respect

Your surgeon and his team will work their magic in the operating room, but they can’t be there every step of your recovery to make sure you’re giving your nose every chance to heal properly. A surgery performed by the best surgeon can still end in a poor outcome if the nose is bumped or jostled too much during surgery, or isn’t given the opportunity to heal.

Smoking, drinking, the wrong supplements, overdoing it, or jostling the nose can all have a major negative impact on the healing process. Poor healing can lead to scarring, infection, and a poor aesthetic outcome—not something you want from a surgery that is supposed to help you look and feel better about yourself!

Will Scar Tissue Be an Issue After Rhinoplasty?

rhinoplasty before and after results on a female patient

Rhinoplasty surgery in New York can change the shape, size, and structure of the nose, delivering incredible results for the right patient. But just like any other surgery, there is one major drawback if not handled well: the potential for developing noticeable scar tissue after your healing is complete. Even rhinoplasty surgery with its well-hidden incisions can create visible scar tissue. To keep your results looking more natural without such scarring, you’ll need to take some necessary precautions.

Why Does Scar Tissue Form?

There is no such thing as a surgery without some scar tissue.  When an incision is made in the skin, the body naturally creates scar tissue to heal the wounds. Scars are formed by dense, fibrous connective tissue that can seal the wound closed. Think of it as your body naturally forming a band-aid to heal a wound. It is nothing to be alarmed about, really. Once it is formed, scar tissue can sometimes be remodeled or reshaped with the help of a facial plastic surgeon or another highly trained specialist. For a rare few, the body may also produce too much scar tissue and cause problems with healing.

Where Will Scar Tissue Form After Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty surgery can be performed in two different ways:

  • Open Approach – It involves one small, well-concealed incision between the nostrils on the underside of the nose. This technique allows the greatest access to the nasal tip as well as the lower and middle third of the nose.
  • Closed Approach – Also called endonasal rhinoplasty, this technique uses incisions that are exclusively made within the inside of your nostrils. This method will not leave behind any visible skin incisions

When scar tissue forms, it will start at the location of these incisions but can become noticeable if care isn’t taken to prevent it. Patients who do experience the formation of excess scar tissue after rhinoplasty will likely develop it around the nasal tip region. Because this area may appear swollen for a time after surgery, you should raise any concerns you have about potential scarring with your facial plastic surgeon.

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How Can Scar Tissue Be Prevented?

While scar tissue may be common after any surgery, there are things patients can do to reduce its occurrence:

  • Avoid smoking and drinking – Nicotine constricts the blood vessels and contributes to poor healing and scarring. Alcohol, on the other hand, not only causes skin dehydration but can also promote swelling and bleeding.
  • Don’t strain yourself – Any activity that causes your blood pressure to rise may increase your risk of scar tissue formation.
  • Follow all recovery instructions – Guidelines are provided to help you heal faster. By taking these instructions seriously, you get to avoid complications and quickly achieve your desired results.
  • Choose the right plastic surgeon – One of the best ways to prevent complications like scarring is to choose a NYC surgeon who is board-certified, highly qualified, and experienced in the rhinoplasty procedure.

How Can Scar Tissue Be Treated?

If you experience problems with the formation of excess scar tissue following your rhinoplasty surgery, there are things you can do to reduce it, as well as medical procedures that will help you achieve more natural-looking results. Options include:

  • Steroids – A series of carefully targeted cortisone steroid injections can help minimize the appearance and extensiveness of the scar tissue.
  • Revision rhinoplasty – Corrective surgery can be performed to remove the scar tissue without impacting any other structures of the nose.

Adjustments can be made in both surgical and nonsurgical techniques, so start the conversation with your facial plastic surgeon today and take it from there.

Choose An Expert New York Plastic Surgeon For Your Rhinoplasty

To learn more about rhinoplasty surgery and what you can do to minimize your scar tissue, book a consultation with a facial plastic surgeon who has years of experience in predicting procedure outcomes and giving patients the results they seek. Philip J. Miller, MD, FACS who is double-certified in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, offers over 20 years of experience and knowledge to his patients. A recognized expert in rhinoplasty, Dr. Miller has been frequently invited to share his specific techniques with his peers at various national facial plastic surgery meetings. He has been voted among the Best Doctors in America each year since 2007, and has also been named a Top Doctor of New York. Contact Dr. Miller’s plastic surgery clinic located at 60 East 56th Street, Third Floor in New York City, by calling (646) 791-3025.