Facelift vs. Neck Lift
Looking your best usually starts with your face – It is the first thing people notice. A new aesthetic appearance can open doors for you, making you look and feel your very best. Though you may not have found the Fountain of Youth yet, even with the many moisturizers and creams available today, a facelift, neck lift, or combination of the two may be the solution you are looking for to get your youthful facial appearance back.
Philip Miller, M.D. is our double board-certified facial plastic surgeon with 20 years of experience delivering safe and effective facelifts and neck lifts. He creates customized treatment plans for each patient he sees. And his caring and supportive medical team are always available to answer questions and help you decide which procedure is the right one. Contact us in New York or New Orleans to learn more.
What is a Facelift?
Popular in New York and across the globe, a facelift is a plastic surgery procedure that repositions fallen tissue and excises loose, excess skin. Explicitly used for saggy skin, facial hollowing, and deep wrinkles, facelifts today are more natural-looking than the windblown results these surgeries used to offer.
Weakened muscle and tissue, combined with collagen depletion in the dermal structure, can cause the skin to sag over time. The tissue under the muscle, the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS), can be tightened and lifted. Loose skin can be placed back over the face with the excess skin removed, promoting a more aesthetically-pleasing appearance.
In addition, Dr. Miller can reposition and remove any displaced fat that migrated downward to create a more youthful facial contour. Finally, the facelift procedure reduces the sagging or skin folds on the cheeks and jawline and other shape changes in the face that happens with age. A classic facelift focuses on the lower portion of the face, from the cheekbones down, as well as the jowls and jawline.
Dr. Miller offers customized treatment plans in his Manhattan, New York, and New Orleans, Louisiana offices to improve and enhance the appearance of your face. His proprietary NatraLook® process enables you to work through potential obstacles as you explore your Aesthetic Confidence in an unintimidating, supportive environment.
What is Neck Lift?
A neck lift is also known as a cervicoplasty, which targets loose, excess skin. It is often combined with a platysmaplasty that tightens the underlying neck muscle. A neck lift is a surgical procedure that removes extra skin and fat from the neck to reduce the visible signs of aging around the neck and jawline to create a smoother contour and more aesthetically pleasing profile. Dr. Miller may use a cervicoplasty, a platysmaplasty, or a combination, to rejuvenate, restore, and create a more refined appearance to the neck.
A neck lift is perfect for those who see most of their aging concerns settling beneath the jawline, such as horizontal banding, submental fat under the chin, and the dreaded “turkey neck.” Neck lift procedures take about two to three hours and can be done using local anesthesia or IV sedation for some patients. Results of a good neck lift can last many years if you give your skin TLC with daily sun protection and medical-grade skincare products that maintain skin health..
Are a facelift and neck lift the same?
A facelift and neck lift are two different procedures, although it may be necessary to perform a lower facelift to firm up the jawline with a neck lift to tighten the sagging skin under the chin. A facelift primarily focuses on loss of volume in the midface, jowl formation along the jawline, and creases around the nose and mouth. A neck lift targets loose skin below the jawline, submental fat under the chin, the formation of turkey neck, and horizontal banding that often occurs when the platysma muscle becomes overactive.
Dr. Miller will take the time to discover your specific concerns and goals to determine which procedure or combination of treatments might work best for you.
What’s the difference between a neck lift and a lower facelift?
Depending on the type of facelift performed, this procedure can refresh most of the face in a single procedure. A neck lift is focused solely on the neck, from the jawline to the decollete. Incisions for a facelift are usually placed around the ear and inside the hairline toward the temple. Incisions for a neck lift can also be placed around the ear, but extend across the lower scalp. Recovery from these procedures can be similar, taking about 1-2 weeks.
Can a neck lift be done without a facelift?
Occasionally, a patient can get a nice result from a neck lift alone. However, it is much more common to combine a neck lift with a facelift to ensure comprehensive improvement. A facelift is more likely to produce a satisfactory outcome when performed as a stand-alone treatment.
Does a facelift tighten the neck?
Although it primarily focuses on improving the cheeks and jawline, a facelift may tighten the neck by reducing skinfolds and sagging skin. However, for the best improvement in both areas, Dr. Miller will likely recommend performing a facelift and neck lift at the same time.
Skinfolds and sagging skin can make you feel unattractive and old. Getting a facelift, neck lift, or even both may help bring your youthful appearance back, giving you confidence and rejuvenation. Contact our Manhattan, New York, or New Orleans, Louisiana office today to make an appointment or ask questions about getting a facelift, neck lift, or both.
What are the best procedures for neck tightening in 2025?
With the abundance of neck tightening procedures available, choosing the most effective option can be a daunting task. From non-invasive techniques to minimally invasive surgeries, these varied procedures offer solutions for different skin types and aging concerns.
In this article, we explore the best neck tightening procedures available in 2025, focusing on their effectiveness, safety, and suitability to help you make a well-informed decision in your pursuit of a youthful and firm neckline.
Best Non-surgical Neck Tightening Procedures to Book in 2025
Non-surgical procedures are great options for patients seeking minimally-invasive treatments with maximum results. A non-surgical neck tightening procedure can be an especially effective option for patients with laxity and crepey skin texture.
Dr. Miller offers NeckTite™, a minimally-invasive procedure that uses patented radiofrequency assisted lipolysis technology to tighten the neck and jowls. NeckTite™ is completed with small cannulas for minimal scarring and downtime. It creates better results than liposuction and is an effective alternative to a surgical neck lift. The NeckTite™ device can contour the neck area for firmer, younger-looking skin and is ideal for patients with:
- Loose or sagging neck skin
- Jowls
- “Turkey neck”
Best Surgical Neck Tightening Procedures to Schedule in 2025
The neck is one of the first areas where signs of aging appear, and over time, wrinkles, lines, and skin texture will become more pronounced. It’s important to remember the neck area when you have facial rejuvenation procedures to make your appearance cohesive. A neck lift can remove excess fat and skin from the neck to create a smoother, more contoured look. It is a surgical procedure known as cervicoplasty (removes excess skin) or platysmaplasty (tightens loose neck muscles).
A cervicoplasty is the general name for a neck lift, while a platysmaplasty is part of the cervicoplasty. The cervicoplasty:
- Removes excess skin
- Makes an incision to reduce loose skin and contour the neck
The platysmaplasty:
- Tightens loose neck muscles
- Contours the neck
- Can be performed without a complete cervicoplasty
Dr. Miller performs neck lift surgeries in his Manhattan outpatient office, where he offers anesthesia or IV sedation to ensure a comfortable experience. The procedure takes 2-3 hours, and after surgery, patients see significant results and younger-looking skin. Patients looking for stunning results to turn back time can expect a neck lift to treat:
- Excess fat, jowls, or double chin
- Loose or sagging skin
- Wrinkles, lines, and creases
- Irregular contours
Adding Jaw Contouring
While healthy lifestyle choices such as diet, exercise, and a skincare regimen can help nurture healthy, toned skin, these habits are not effective in creating a strong facial profile. Dr. Miller’s proprietary procedure, G.I. Jawline, is a cosmetic procedure for men that creates a chiseled jawline. His proprietary procedure helps men get the classic look they desire with a sharp jawline, square chin, and a strong masculine facial contour. Dr. Miller from NYC focuses on enhancing existing features by outlining and highlighting the jawline structure.
The G.I. Jawline can include any one or combination of these treatments:
- Facial injectables: Injectables can target fine lines, wrinkles, and volume to create smooth skin, improve definition and enhance chin projection.
- Kybella®: This FDA-approved injectable treatment targets submental chin fat.
- Liposuction: This body-shaping procedure dissolves undesirable fat from hard to target areas, including submental fat under the chin.
- Neck-Tite™: This minimally-invasive procedure uses radiofrequency energy to melt fat and rejuvenate the neck and jowls.
- Medical grade implants: Implants are a permanent solution and are used to create facial balance and contour.
And The Best Procedure for Neck Tightening in 2025 Is…
…unique to you! Each patient has a unique look, facial structure, and cosmetic preference. Dr. Miller works closely with patients to identify their needs and the most effective solution to meet those needs. He customizes neck tightening treatments based on your goals to make the results stunning and natural.
Want beautiful, flawless results? The key is a personalized treatment plan with a focus on natural beauty. Dr. Miller wants patients to feel empowered to explore their Aesthetic Confidence® with a supportive experience. He uses the NatraLook® process, which evaluates and expands the plastic surgery experience into a safe opportunity to discuss personal obstacles and improve confidence.
Schedule Your Neck Tightening Treatment in New York Today
Dr. Miller works closely with patients to create a unified vision and personalized treatment plan. His extensive experience, innovative approaches, and advanced technology allow him to achieve unparalleled, life-changing results.
Contact us to schedule a consultation and learn more about neck tightening procedures that are right for you.
Can Rhinoplasty Make Your Nose Smaller?
As the center point of your face, your nose plays a significant role in creating your facial symmetry.
If you’re unhappy with your nose’s size, width, profile, or nostril size, nose surgery can help bring it into harmony with your other facial features. Rhinoplasty can change the shape and size of the nose to achieve your aesthetic goals.
For optimal results, it’s essential to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in rhinoplasty procedures. Reduction rhinoplasty, or nose reduction, is one of the most common procedures performed by top New York City facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Philip J. Miller. As a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Miller has the expertise, skill, and technique to create the best possible result for you.
How to Make Your Nose Smaller with a Surgical Nose Job
Augment the Nasal Tip
Sometimes a nasal tip adjustment is all that is needed to make the nose appear more proportionate. For instance, a large nasal tip can cause your nose to look more prominent. Dr. Miller will use specialized methods to alter the cartilage, improving your nasal tip’s projection, shape, or rotation.
Reduce the Bridge of the Nose
In other cases, the nasal bridge is the cause of a disproportionate appearance. If the bridge of your nose is out of proportion to the rest of your facial features, Dr. Miller can reduce the nasal bridge to bring it into balance.
Adjust the Size of Your Nostrils
The ideal nose is triangular, with proportionately-sized, symmetrical nostrils. When the nostrils are too large or wide, they draw attention away from your other facial features. In these cases, your appearance can be dramatically altered simply by manipulating the appearance and shape of the nostrils.
During a nostril reduction, Dr. Miller excises portions of the surrounding tissue via incisions below or inside the nose to reduce nostril size. As a result, scarring is minimal to non-existent.
A Rhinoplasty Procedure at Our Plastic Surgery Clinic
Before any nose surgery, you’ll consult with Dr. Miller at his New York City, NY plastic surgery clinic. He’ll assess the size, structure, and general condition of your nose and discuss your specific concerns and aesthetic goals.
Are you a candidate for a rhinoplasty?
For any elective surgery, good candidates should be healthy and have realistic expectations for improvement.
Nose surgery can be performed when the face and nose have reached full development—around age 16 for females and 17 for males. Rhinoplasty is not recommended for patients younger than this, as the nose can continue to change until this age.
Older people can benefit from rhinoplasty as well. As we age, our nose may begin to look longer, and the tip of the nose may start to droop. A nose job can correct these age-related changes for a more youthful appearance. In fact, it’s common to combine rhinoplasty with a facelift, eyelid surgery, or other anti-aging procedures.
Additional Benefits of Rhinoplasty
In addition to creating dramatic improvements in your appearance and self-confidence, rhinoplasty can correct functional issues of the nose you may not even know you have.
Some people have nasal passages that are too narrow for air to pass through freely. Treating this issue may involve removing tissue to open more space and facilitate easier breathing.
A deviated septum is another common functional problem, which can occur because of injury or accident. It’s also possible that the septum simply grew in a crooked manner. Since a deviated septum usually produces no external visual signs, most people are unaware they have this condition. For others, the deviation causes snoring, sinusitis, breathing difficulties, sleep apnea, and respiratory complaints. Visit mayoclinic.org to learn more about deviated septum symptoms and causes.
When you decide to have rhinoplasty surgery, this is also the time to address any breathing problems you may have noticed. Before performing your nose surgery, Dr. Miller will examine the nose to identify any functional issues. He will then create a surgical plan that addresses both the appearance and function of the nose.
Non-Surgical Alternatives
DIY Home Remedies
A search of the internet reveals a few methods for “DIY” nose jobs.
For instance, certain websites proclaim that nose exercises are an easy way to reshape the nose. Other suggested remedies involve applying toothpaste, apple cider vinegar, ginger, or garlic to reduce a large nose.
The shape of your nose where it attaches to your face is determined mainly by bone shape, and the tip of your nose is shaped primarily by cartilage. There’s no credible evidence to suggest that any DIY home remedy can influence the size or shape of the nose.
Unreliable advice abounds on the internet, and it’s always best to see a board-certified facial plastic surgeon for trustworthy recommendations based on expertise, not internet rumors.
Makeup
Makeup can’t change the size or shape of your nose, but it can help alter its appearance. Contouring is a popular way to create the illusion of a smaller, thinner, or reshaped nose:
- Using a bronzer two shades darker than your skin, outline both sides of your nose.
- Highlight the bridge of your nose with a matte highlighter.
- With a makeup sponge, manipulate the shadows and highlights to achieve the desired effect.
Many online tutorials demonstrate techniques for nose contouring depending on the effect you want to achieve.
Injectable Options
If you’re dissatisfied with your nose because of hollows, depressions, or asymmetry that affect its overall appearance, you may want to consider non-surgical rhinoplasty.
A non-surgical nose job makes subtle changes to the shape of the nose using injectable fillers, allowing surgeons to change the nasal tip’s shape, size, and position, straighten the nose, and even hide bumps. Non-surgical nose jobs are safe and effective, offering immediate results with exceptionally short recovery time.
These procedures do have limitations, however. The results aren’t permanent, typically lasting between 8-24 months. Non-surgical nose jobs can’t reduce the size of the nose and are best suited for making subtle changes.
Reduce the Size of Your Nose Permanently with Rhinoplasty in NYC
If you’ve been considering surgery to reduce the size of your nose, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Miller. He’ll help guide you through each step of your procedure from his state-of-the-art Manhattan plastic surgery clinic and surgical suite—one of the premier centers in New York City.
Rhinoplasty to correct bridge and nasal tip, 3 months post-op, by Dr. Miller
Popular Plastic Surgery Procedures: A look at the Real Housewives
Plastic surgery helps individuals achieve the aesthetic beauty and confidence they desire. Bravo’s Real Housewives are open about and supportive of plastic surgery to enhance or change facial and body features. The women had a wide range of treatments in 2021 and spoke candidly on their shows and social media platforms.
Philip J. Miller, MD, FACS, a distinguished double board-certified facial plastic surgeon with more than 20 years of experience, offers these procedures in Manhattan, New York. He is recognized as an expert in rhinoplasty and facial rejuvenation procedures and is known for his innovative techniques and focus on natural-looking results. Dr. Miller and his team of experts can perform the procedures the Real Housewives had done this year; take a look at some highlights:
The Nose Craze
Rhinoplasty was a big hit among the Real Housewives in 2021. Teresa Giudice and Raquel Leviss—to name two—both had rhinoplasty procedures. Many patients feel their nose detracts from other facial features and choose rhinoplasty to adjust the shape or size to fit harmoniously with the rest of their facial features.
Rhinoplasty is a complex procedure that requires a skilled and experienced surgeon, as well as extensive preoperative discussions and planning. Dr. Miller considers facial structure, the prominence of features, and skin quality and thickness when advising patients on how to achieve their cosmetic goals and overall facial balance.
In the case of Real Housewife Raquel Leviss, she felt disappointed with her results and thought her fiancé bumping into her nose may have contributed to unwanted results. While finding an expert surgeon is important, sometimes results can be different from what a patient envisioned. Dr. Miller offers revision rhinoplasty for patients disappointed in results, or that suffered a nose injury or trauma after the initial procedure.
Rhinoplasty can tackle a small problem area or completely reshape or resize your nose. Teresa Giudice felt her nose was too round on the top and turned to rhinoplasty to feel more confident. Whatever the reason, whatever the concern, Dr. Miller can work with you to find a solution and create natural, beautiful results for you.
Combining Procedures
Many plastic surgery combinations are safe and provide maximum results. By combining procedures, patients can reduce recovery time, limit the use of anesthetics, and eliminate multiple surgeries. Some procedures make sense to perform together, such as a facelift and fillers, or chin augmentation and rhinoplasty.
Combination procedures have been popular with many of the Real Housewives, as the convenience of scheduling multiple treatments at one time can save both time and money.
Dr. Miller works closely with patients to identify their cosmetic goals and create a custom plan with combination treatments to meet those goals quickly and efficiently. Like Jennifer’s case, sometimes balance can only be achieved when multiple areas are addressed with different procedures. Seeing satisfying results from combination procedures can boost your confidence and comfort.
Getting a Lift
Facelifts—and other major plastic surgeries—are most common in the fall and winter to avoid heat and sun exposure and see results before summer months or holiday events. A facelift is a popular procedure that tightens sagging skin from aging and weak muscles. Loose skin can be moved or removed to create a natural look and a more youthful appearance.
Dolores Catania and Emily Simpson are two Real Housewives that have undergone a facelift. There are different types of facelifts that produce various levels of results. Emily had a mini lower facelift which is less invasive and targets more minor areas of wrinkles or loose skin. Dr. Miller offers different types of facelifts in his Manhattan office, including:
- Traditional Facelift: Incisions are made at the hairline, continue in front and behind the ears, and extend to the lower scalp. Muscles and skin are lifted and tightened, and closed with sutures.
- Mini Facelift: This procedure uses shorter incisions and targets areas that are just beginning to wrinkle or sag. This minor outpatient treatment can be accomplished in less than 90 minutes.
- Thread Lift: A unique thread with tiny barbs is used to pull the skin up and back. This thread latches onto the skin and remains in place to keep the skin smooth.
- Micro Lift: This minimally invasive procedure creates the look one achieves with pulled-back hair. It is a quick and safe procedure with little downtime.
Fast and Fabulous
Dermal fillers and Botox ® Cosmetic are popular, especially among Real Housewives. Botox treats frown lines and other dynamic wrinkles by blocking nerve impulses to facial muscles, while dermal fillers target static wrinkles and restore youthful volume. Knowing the right product, treatment area, and limit is key to achieving your best possible results.
Real Housewife Shannon Storms Beador admitted to overdoing it on fillers. When too many facial fillers are used, it can dramatically alter an appearance and create disproportionate features and an unnatural look. Dr. Miller uses the unique NatraLook® approach to aesthetic beauty. The NatraLook process empowers individuals to explore aesthetic confidence safely and naturally. Dr. Miller and his team strive for natural-looking results to provide patients with an extraordinary experience.
Dr. Miller can suggest which Botox and filler treatments are right for you to create the customized approach that produces the most natural improvement.
Your Best Choice for Facial Plastic Surgery in New York City
Many plastic surgery procedures help you look and feel your best. Whether you want a single treatment, combination procedure, or a total makeover, Dr. Miller can help you achieve your aesthetic goals. NYC #1 facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Miller, uses minimally-invasive techniques, innovative technology, and advanced surgical methods to help patients boost their confidence and achieve their aesthetic goals.
Contact us today to learn more about our procedures and schedule a consultation.
Your Most Beautiful Nose: Understanding Your Nose Type
Manhattan, New York, is a diverse city representing many ethnicities. While everyone has a unique nose shape, common ethnic features impact rhinoplasty concerns and ideal outcomes. Rhinoplasty, better known as a nose job, is a surgical procedure that improves the appearance of the nose by:
- Reshaping
- Reducing
- Straightening
- Removing a hump
- Refining the tip
Customizable rhinoplasty solutions are essential to achieve the most natural results, especially for ethnic rhinoplasty patients. Ethnic rhinoplasty is a procedure performed on patients of different ethnicities and can improve the nose while preserving ethnic identity.
Philip J. Miller, MD, FACS, is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon surgeon with skill, expertise, and an artistic eye. He achieves impeccable and life-changing results for his patients and is highly qualified to perform even the most complex rhinoplasty procedures. He uses a unique approach with ethnic patients as their goals and concerns typically vary from Caucasian patients.
Dr. Miller’s Manhattan office works with many different nose types, including:
African American Noses
African American rhinoplasty is an ethnic reshaping procedure designed with specific and unique characteristics and concerns of African American patients. African Americans tend to have:
- Wide, low bridge
- Bulbous, under-projected tip
- Wide alar base
- The goal for many African American rhinoplasty procedures is to:
- Low bridge
Dr. Miller recognizes the differences in nasal anatomy and can improve the nose while maintaining harmony with other facial features and ethnic heritage. As a skilled and experienced surgeon, Dr. Miller creates natural outcomes and avoids complications common in African American patients, such as keloid scar formation.
Asian Noses
Each ethnicity has a different look and requires a specialized approach to rhinoplasty, including Asian patients. Many Asian patients experience common nose characteristics, including:
- A flat nasal profile
- A slight nasal bridge
- Flared nostrils
- A wide nasal tip
- Poor nasal tip strength
Asian patients often want to:
- Reduce flaring
- Have tip or bridge implants for a more prominent profile
While Korea is an Asian country, Korean rhinoplasty varies from the approach to Asian rhinoplasty. Korean patients experience a flatter nasal profile, slight nasal bridge, broad nasal tip, and wide nostrils. Without overcorrecting, Dr. Miller can:
- Narrow nostrils
- Fix an overly punched tip
- Correct an over-augmented bridge
Dr. Miller is committed to creating a personalized treatment plan with an approach central to your ethnicity. With more than 20 years of experience, Dr. Miller can produce natural and beautiful results in his Manhattan, New York location.
Hispanic/Latino Noses
There are more than 52 million Hispanic and Latino individuals in the United States, making Hispanic rhinoplasty an increasingly popular procedure in Manhattan. There is so much diversity within the Hispanic and Latino communities, it requires special consideration for small ethnic groups regarding rhinoplasty procedures. Hispanic patients share common nasal features such as thick skin and a bulbous nasal tip that is difficult to refine with traditional methods. Other categories include:
- Spanish heritage: a large bridge
- Caribbean heritage: wide, flat nostrils
- Central and South American heritage: flatter nasal tips and bridges
These differences call for three distinct rhinoplasty procedures:
- High bridge with a hump: The cartilage is shaved down, and the bone is rasped to remove the hump
- Under-projected, dependent tip: The tip of the nose is raised and projected with supplemental cartilage
- Shorter, flatter nose with a broad nasal base, thick skin, and a wide tip: The shape of the nose is refined by narrowing the base and raising the bridge
Dr. Miller works extensively with patients on how to approach the procedure and how to maintain a natural and ethnic-looking appearance.
Middle Eastern Noses
Mediterranean and middle eastern rhinoplasty patients experience common nasal characteristics such as:
- Thicker facial skin with fattier tissue
- Longer noses and a higher bridge
- Droopy tips
- Nasal humps
- Asymmetrical nostrils
- Wide bones
The goal of middle eastern rhinoplasty is to create:
- More symmetry
- Facial balance
Less experienced surgeons may create undesirable results, but Dr. Miller is a skilled surgeon that is knowledgeable about ethnic nose reshaping techniques. He can help create the best nose with ethnic rhinoplasty or revision rhinoplasty.
Indian Noses
With special techniques and years of experience, Dr. Miller can improve the shape of Indian noses without impacting ethnic identity with Indian rhinoplasty. Common nose characteristics for this ethnicity include:
- Rounder nasal tip
- Wider nasal structure
- Thicker skin on the nose
- A nasal shape that slopes downward
- Hump or bump on the nasal bridge
You can schedule a consultation in Dr. Miller’s Manhattan office to discuss all your concerns and identify if Indian rhinoplasty is right for you.
Other Types of Noses
There are many other ethnic nose shapes such as Greek, Persian and Jewish noses. Greek noses typically have a straight bridge without bumps or curves. It is a common reference as many rhinoplasty patients want a straight bridge for a sleek-looking profile.
A Persian nose has:
- Large nasal profile
- Downward sloping of the nasal bridge
- Bulbous nasal tip
A Jewish nose has:
- Amorphous nasal tip
- Over projected nasal tip
- Large dorsal hump
Getting Positive Results with Ethnic Rhinoplasty
Dr. Miller utilizes the NatraLook® Process to ensure the most natural and pleasing results for any procedure, especially complex treatments like rhinoplasty. The NatraLook Process is critical to achieving a unified vision and executing intended results specific to ethnicity. Evaluating the entire face is vital to achieving balance, beauty, and natural-looking features.
#1 NYC facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Miller, has years of experience with ethnic patients and has the skills to create natural and ethnically centered rhinoplasty procedures. Contact Dr. Miller’s Manhattan, New York, office to schedule a consultation and learn more about ethnic rhinoplasty.
Rhinoplasty, chin implant, and lip reduction to improve the facial contour by Dr. Miller
What is Dorsal Reduction?
Dorsal reduction rhinoplasty surgery is a procedure that removes excess cartilage and bone from the nose, refining its appearance and improving its proportion to the rest of the face.
Philip J. Miller, MD, FACS, a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon in Manhattan, New York, and one of the country’s foremost experts in rhinoplasty, can assist female and male patients alike in achieving a nose they’ll love. You may elect traditional dorsal reduction rhinoplasty to reshape or reduce the nose. Other patients may benefit from non-surgical rhinoplasty for subtle corrections that achieve their desired aesthetic goals.
What is dorsal reduction?
Dorsal reduction rhinoplasty is a surgery that removes excess cartilage, bone, and skin from the nose, giving it a straighter, more streamlined look. This can help enhance the appearance, create facial symmetry, and improve breathing through the nose by reducing nasal obstruction or deviation.
The procedure can make the bridge of the nose narrower and straighter, and is often performed on patients whose noses are too large for their facial features or who have noses with an unusual shape. Dorsal reduction is often performed on people with prominent noses, such as those of Italian or Greek heritage.
What causes a dorsal hump?
A dorsal hump appears on the slope of the nose from the bridge to the tip and can affect your facial profile. A dorsal hump is most noticeable when viewed from the side of the face.
The majority of dorsal humps are inherited genetically. As a result, if your parents or siblings have a prominent dorsal hump, you may as well. Dorsal humps may occur due to a traumatic physical injury—such as a sports injury or car accident—if the bone or cartilage heals unevenly. Whatever the cause of a dorsal hump, Philip Miller, MD, FACS in Manhattan can correct it and give you an aesthetically pleasing, balanced profile.
Benefits of Dorsal Reduction
The benefits of dorsal reduction rhinoplasty include improved self-confidence and a positive self-image. However, since dorsal humps are often the result of genetic heritage, the procedure may cause identity issues for some ethnic patients. This is why it is so important to rely on an expert surgeon’s skills to achieve the goals of an ethnic nose job without affecting other ethnicity-related facial features.
How is dorsal reduction performed?
Open Rhinoplasty. During an open rhinoplasty, the surgeon makes a small Z-shaped incision between the nostrils on the underside of the nose. The open approach enables the surgeon to make more precise and accurate adjustments to your nose’s shape. Although open rhinoplasty leaves a small scar, it fades quickly with proper care.
Closed Rhinoplasty. Closed rhinoplasty is a procedure in which the surgeon makes incisions inside the nose without affecting the skin. The primary disadvantage of this approach is that the bone, cartilage, and tissue are not visible to the surgeon. However, this procedure results in less swelling than open rhinoplasty and can correct minor flaws.
MicroRhinoplasty. During a MicroRhinoplasty procedure, Dr.Miller accesses the treatment area via a small incision in the nostril. Then, using a specialized microrasp, he meticulously removes the protruding bony layers until the desired contour is achieved. Patients experience minimal discomfort, swelling, and bruising and typically resume normal activities within a few days.
Liquid Rhinoplasty. A liquid—or nonsurgical—rhinoplasty uses dermal fillers to reshape the nose without stitches or incisions. While liquid filler can’t make a nose appear smaller, it can correct minor indentations or asymmetries without requiring surgical intervention.
Recovery After Dorsal Reduction
Most patients are pleasantly surprised by how little pain they experience following dorsal reduction rhinoplasty surgery. The most unpleasant aspect of postoperative recovery is difficulty breathing through the nose for several days because of swelling. This difficulty usually resolves within a week or two. Expect some swelling around your eyes for several weeks. Once the swelling diminishes, you’ll start to see improvement.
You’ll need to follow certain precautions during your recovery period. Because bending or lifting can exacerbate swelling, it’s not recommended for the first three weeks following surgery. No strenuous activity such as running, weight lifting, cycling, or cardio training should be resumed for three weeks. Contact sports should be avoided for six weeks to allow the bones to heal completely. You may drive once the swelling has subsided sufficiently to allow for clear vision. Air travel is permitted 2-3 weeks after your surgery.
Scarring After Dorsal Reduction
The size and location of scars will depend on how extensive your treatment is because dorsal reduction involves removing sections of bone, cartilage, and skin tissue.
Scars from this procedure are typically hidden within the nasal skin creases and won’t be visible when you look straight ahead. Many patients choose topical treatments to minimize scarring.
Is Dorsal Reduction Right for You? Ask the Expert
Why should you consult with Dr. Miller about your dorsal reduction procedure?
- Dr. Miller has over two decades of experience in facial plastic surgery.
- He has performed over 5,000 successful procedures.
- He is a facial plastic surgeon of international renown.
- He blends art and science to provide his patients with beautiful, natural-looking results.
In addition to these qualifications, Dr. Miller offers his patients the exclusive NatraLook process, which combines minimally invasive techniques and advanced procedures to help each patient achieve the Aesthetic Confidence® they desire.
Schedule a Dorsal Reduction Consultation in New York
To learn more about dorsal reduction rhinoplasty in Manhattan, contact our office to set up a consultation with Dr. Miller, #1 NYC facial plastic surgeon. You can fill out our convenient contact form or call us. One of our patient advisers will be happy to help you start the journey to a new, improved you.
What is External Rhinoplasty?
One of the most important steps during your rhinoplasty consultation is determining whether you are a better candidate for external (open) or endonasal (closed) rhinoplasty. While both procedures can achieve exceptional results, the exact technique that your facial plastic surgeon uses will be determined by your unique concerns and nasal structure. This blog puts the spotlight on what external rhinoplasty is and its advantages.
Whether you are a better candidate for external rhinoplasty or a different technique, double board-certified facial plastic surgeon, Philip J. Miller, MD, FACS, has the artistic skill and experience to reshape or reconstruct your nose for enhanced facial symmetry. He is your Manhattan, New York, and New Orleans, Louisiana, expert on all types of rhinoplasty techniques, and it is his goal to bring balance to your features and achieve beautiful, natural-looking results.
What is External Rhinoplasty?
External rhinoplasty is a rhinoplasty technique in which Dr. Miller makes a small incision in the columella (the piece of tissue that separates the nostrils) in a Z-shaped pattern. This common technique opens the tip of the nose to reveal its internal structures, improving surgical access and allowing Dr. Miller to fold the nasal skin upwards.
Because of enhanced visibility while maneuvering through the bone, cartilage, and tissue that make up the nose, Dr. Miller can reshape the nose and repair damage without jeopardizing its structural support.
External vs. Endonasal Rhinoplasty
An endonasal rhinoplasty is a procedure in which all incisions are confined to the inside of the nostrils. During the procedure, Dr. Miller carefully lifts the underlying bone, cartilage, and tissue through the nostrils, and while visible scarring is prevented, considerable challenges and technical limitations are associated with the lack of surgical access.
A closed rhinoplasty is especially appealing for those who want to make minor modifications to their nose. It’s also ideal if you have breathing problems, such as chronic sinusitis. And with no external incisions, the skin between the tip and nasal bridge remains intact. This means a shorter recovery time for patients. But this more conservative rhinoplasty isn’t right for everyone.
Dr. Miller typically recommends external rhinoplasties for patients with more complex structural concerns, such as:
- A severely crooked nose
- Nasal trauma or deformities
- An asymmetrical tip
- A large nasal tip
- A large dorsal hump (bump on the nasal bridge)
External rhinoplasty is also best for revision rhinoplasty in most cases. If you’ve had rhinoplasty in the past and are unhappy with the results, Dr. Miller will typically recommend external rhinoplasty to address your concerns.
Benefits of External Rhinoplasty
There are two main advantages to an external rhinoplasty procedure:
Improved precision: The greatest benefit of performing external rhinoplasty is better access. Opening the columella allows Dr. Miller to see the internal structures of your nose. As a result, he can correct complex nasal deformities with precision and accuracy. Clear visibility also allows him to preserve as much of your tissue, cartilage, and bone as possible because he can reshape rather than simply remove them. Many patients may have underlying asymmetry issues with their cartilages, and these can only be visualized and treated through an open approach.
Preservation of structural support: Because of better visualization of almost the entire nasal framework, individual components can be accessed in their natural, undisturbed alignment. And by expanding his entry to the nasal components, Dr. Miller can maintain the nose’s structural stability. He’s able to create dramatic results without disrupting much of the surrounding bone, cartilage, and tissue.
How is External Rhinoplasty Performed?
Dr. Miller begins an external rhinoplasty by making a small incision in the columella. He will lift away nasal skin, pulling it up so he can work on bone and cartilage in their natural alignment. After he makes the necessary alterations to reshape the nose or repair any damage, he will re-drape the skin and suture it in place. A small splint is typically taped over the nasal bridge and will be removed one week after surgery.
Recovery After External Rhinoplasty
You will experience nasal stuffiness after your procedure which will subside after the first several weeks. The splint, which helps protect and support your nose, will be removed about one week after your surgery. When the splint comes off, you may see some bruising and swelling under the eyes which are temporary and can easily be covered by make-up. Most patients are usually back to performing most activities after 2-4 weeks.
Dr. Miller will provide you with an extensive list of rhinoplasty post-op instructions. This is by far the most effective way to help ensure a smooth post-op recovery process and reduce the chance for risks and complications.
Scarring After External Rhinoplasty
Since an open rhinoplasty requires an external incision, you may have minor scarring after the procedure. Fortunately, the Z-shaped incision is very small, so the scarring should fade with time.
Dr. Miller also takes your skin and facial structure into consideration before making the incision. This step ensures that the scar is barely visible as it is between the nostrils at the base of the nose. In most cases, you will be the only one that knows it’s there.
Is External Rhinoplasty Right For You? Ask the Expert
Determining the best type of rhinoplasty for you depends entirely on the concerns you want to address. Neither technique is necessarily better than the other.
To ensure you achieve the best results possible, Dr. Miller offers a proprietary consultation process called NatraLook. During your NatraLook consultation, he evaluates your nose and facial features while listening to your concerns and goals. This process expands the typical plastic surgery experience into a safe, collaborative environment where you can explore your aesthetic confidence and create a unified vision for your outcome.
Contact an Expert Facial Plastic Surgeon to Learn More About Rhinoplasty in New York City
To learn more about the different types of rhinoplasty procedures Dr. Miller performs and to find out which technique is best for you, contact our New York City plastic surgery clinic today.