Rhinoplasty
in Novi, Michigan
At Illuum Cosmetic Surgery, we know that feeling comfortable in your skin is essential for a happy and fulfilling life. With years of experience and an extensive track record of successful rhinoplasty procedures, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Lakin and his team put their expertise to use in order to help you achieve your ideal nasal contour. Rhinoplasty is one of the most finesse and technically demanding procedures in plastic surgery. It requires years of experience, meticulous attention to detail, and an in-depth understanding of surgical anatomy and physiology of the nose. Performing a rhinoplasty also requires the ability to assess the patient, as well as an authoritative understanding of the dynamics of rhinoplasty, in order to consistently achieve long-lasting results. We are dedicated to guiding you every step of the way and providing the highest level of care and support throughout your journey.
What Is Rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty, also known as a nose job, is a surgical procedure aimed at improving the appearance and/or function of the nose. This procedure can be performed as an outpatient procedure in our QUAD A accredited outpatient surgery center. The procedure can address various issues, such as correcting the size, shape, and symmetry of the nose, altering the angle between the nose and upper lip, and improving breathing difficulties.
Rhinoplasty is a highly personalized procedure that takes into account each patient’s unique nasofacial anatomy and desired outcomes. It requires a skilled and experienced plastic surgeon to achieve optimal results while maintaining the form and function of the nose. If you are considering rhinoplasty, it is important to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon, like Dr. Lakin, who can evaluate your individual needs and goals and guide you through the process.
Different Reasons For Getting Rhinoplasty Surgery
Cosmetic Reasons
Rhinoplasty is often performed for cosmetic reasons, to improve the overall appearance of the nose and enhance facial harmony. Cosmetic rhinoplasty can include reducing the size of a large nose, refining the shape of the tip, straightening a crooked nose, or correcting asymmetry. Our goal is to create a nose harmonious with the rest of your face without giving off the appearance that you “had a nosejob”. Your nose should blend into the rest of your face and appear natural while at the same time matching your goals and expectations.
Medical Reasons
Rhinoplasty can also be performed for medical reasons, such as correcting a deviated nasal septum or other structural abnormalities that may cause breathing difficulties.
Types of Rhinoplasty Procedures
Open Rhinoplasty Surgery
What Is Open Rhinoplasty Surgery?
An open rhinoplasty involves making a small incision on the columella, the fleshy tissue that separates the nostrils, and lifting the skin and soft tissue to gain access to the underlying nasal structures. This technique provides better visibility and allows the surgeon to make more precise adjustments to the nose. The small incision along the bottom of the nose is imperceptible when healed.
What Are the Different Steps of the Surgery?
Once the incision is made, the surgeon will reshape the nasal bone and cartilage in the nose to achieve the desired shape and size. This may involve adding or removing tissue, straightening the nasal septum, or reducing the size of the nasal turbinates. The skin and soft tissue are then re-draped over the new nasal framework and well-sutured.
Best Candidate for Open Rhinoplasty Surgery
Patients who require improved visualization during their rhinoplasty are best treated by open rhinoplasty surgery. These include patients who require more significant nasal dorsal hump reduction or nasal tip refinements with suturing and grafts and patients who have a deviated nose or septum.
Closed Rhinoplasty Surgery
What Is Closed Rhinoplasty Surgery?
A closed rhinoplasty procedure involves only making incisions inside the nostrils so there are no visible scars on the surface of the nose. This technique is best suited for patients who require minimal changes to their noses.
What Are the Different Steps of the Surgery?
During a closed rhinoplasty, the surgeon makes incisions inside the nostrils to access the nasal structures. They then reshape the nasal bone and cartilage to achieve the desired shape and size of the nose. Once the surgeon is satisfied with the changes, they will close the incisions with dissolvable stitches.
Best Candidate for Closed Rhinoplasty Surgery?
The best candidate for a closed rhinoplasty requires only a minor nasal dorsal hump reduction and/or minor nasal tip adjustments.
What Is Septoplasty?
Septoplasty is a surgical procedure that aims to correct a deviated nasal septum, which is a common cause of breathing difficulties. The septum is the wall of bone and cartilage that separates the two nostrils.
What Are the Different Steps of the Surgery?
During a septoplasty, the surgeon makes incisions inside the nostrils and lifts the mucous membrane covering the septum. They then remove or straighten the deviated portion of the septum to improve airflow through the nasal passages. Finally, the mucous membrane is repositioned, and the incisions are closed with dissolvable stitches.
Our Rhinoplasty Speciality
We specialize in primary rhinoplasty, which can improve the appearance of your nasal bones, nasal cartilage, nasal tip, and alar rims. Tip refinement includes enhancing boxy tips, optimizing tip projection, elongating a short nose, and correcting an over-projected nose. We can correct alar rim deformities as well as adjust the alar base and nostril size. We have an in-depth understanding of the dynamics of rhinoplasty, including the relationship between the delicate maneuvers and the long-term outcomes. We work with patients with thick nasal skin, correct deviated noses, deviated septums, and enlarged turbinates. We perform ethnic rhinoplasties and secondary rhinoplasties as well. We also are experts in rhinoplasty on patients with previous cleft lip nose deformities.
What Is the Recovery Process?
After a rhinoplasty procedure, it is normal to experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort around the nose and eyes. The extent of these symptoms varies depending on the individual and the extent of the nose surgery performed.
Patient should plan on taking one week off from work after surgery and avoid any strenuous activities or heavy lifting for at least one month. Nasal packing and a nasal drip pad will be required for one day, and a cast with tape on the roof of your nose will be used for one week. For open rhinoplasty, nasal sutures will be removed at one-week post-op. Pain medications, antibiotics, nausea medications, steroids for swelling, Arnica for bruising, and a nasal spray will be prescribed for use after surgery. Initial results will be seen within one to three weeks after surgery. Due to the length of time it takes for the swelling in the nose to resolve, it can take approximately three months until patients start seeing their final results and potentially up to one year to see your final results.
Patients should follow all post-operative instructions provided by their surgeon, which may include:
Taking pain medication as prescribed
Applying ice to the nose and surrounding areas to reduce swelling
Sleeping with the head elevated for the first few days
Avoiding blowing the nose or any activity that puts pressure on the nose
Cleaning the incision site as directed
Avoiding sun exposure to prevent scarring
Cost of Rhinoplasty in Michigan
The cost of rhinoplasty at Illuum Cosmetic Surgery can vary depending on several factors, such as the complexity of the procedure, the surgical technique used, and the individual needs of the patient. We understand that cost is an essential consideration for patients, so we strive to provide transparent and competitive pricing for all our services.
The general range for rhinoplasty surgery in Michigan costs between $6,000 to $15,000. To help patients get an idea of the potential cost of rhinoplasty surgery, we offer an instant price estimator tool on our website. This tool takes into account the surgical technique used, the complexity of the procedure, and other factors to provide an estimate of the surgery cost. While this tool is not a substitute for a consultation with Dr. Lakin, it can be a helpful starting point for patients who are considering rhinoplasty surgery.
Who Is the Ideal Candidate for a Nose Job?
While the decision to undergo rhinoplasty is a personal one, certain characteristics may make someone an ideal candidate for the procedure:
Good Overall Health
First and foremost, a candidate for rhinoplasty should be in good overall health. This means that they are free from any significant medical conditions that could complicate the surgery or recovery process. If you are a smoker, please plan to quit smoking for at least 4 weeks before and after surgery.
Realistic Expectations
In addition, a candidate should have realistic expectations for the outcome of the procedure. Rhinoplasty can certainly improve the appearance of the nose, but it is important to understand that the result may not be exactly as the patient envisioned. A good candidate will be open to the possibilities and limitations of the procedure.
Having Nasal Abnormalities
Another reason to consider rhinoplasty is if the patient has breathing difficulties due to nasal abnormalities, such as a deviated septum. In these cases, a septorhinoplasty can address both the appearance and functionality of the nose.
Desire to Improve the Nose’s Appearance
Ultimately, a desire to improve the appearance of the nose is the most common reason for seeking rhinoplasty. If you are unhappy with the size, shape, or proportion of your nose, you may be a good candidate for this procedure.
Frequently Asked Questions about Rhinoplasty
While rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure and some discomfort can be expected, most patients report mild to moderate pain. At Illuum, we take all necessary measures to minimize discomfort and pain during and after the procedure. Pain medication and other supportive measures will be provided to ensure the comfort of the patient.
The results of rhinoplasty surgery are permanent, and patients can expect to enjoy the results for the rest of their lives. However, it’s important to remember that the nose will continue to age naturally, and the results of the surgery may change slightly over time. Patients can help maintain the results of their rhinoplasty by following a healthy lifestyle and avoiding any activities that may harm their noses.
Most patients can return to work within a week after surgery, depending on the extent of the procedure and the nature of the work. However, it’s important to follow Dr. Lakin’s post-operative instructions to ensure optimal healing and a safe return to work. This may include avoiding strenuous activities or certain types of work that may put pressure on the nose.
Yes, rhinoplasty can correct a deviated septum, which is a common cause of breathing difficulties. Dr. Gregory Lakin can perform a septoplasty, which is a surgical procedure that straightens the septum and improves breathing.
In our practice, rhinoplasty for both cosmetic and reconstructive reasons is not covered by insurance.
Rhinoplasty and septoplasty are two different types of nasal surgery, but they can be performed at the same time to improve both the appearance and function of the nose.
Rhinoplasty is a nasal surgery that is performed to reshape the nose and improve its appearance. It can involve changing the size, shape, or proportion of the nose, as well as correcting asymmetry or other aesthetic concerns.
Septoplasty, on the other hand, is a functional procedure that is performed to correct a deviated septum or other structural abnormalities that can cause breathing difficulties. It involves straightening the septum and removing any excess nasal bones or cartilage that may be blocking the nasal passages.
While rhinoplasty and septoplasty are different procedures, they can be performed together to achieve optimal results. Dr. Lakin will evaluate your unique case and recommend the appropriate procedure or combination of procedures to meet your specific needs.
You should see your initial results within the first one to three weeks. It takes up to three months to start seeing your final results and potentially up to one year to see your final results.
This is the result of performing a dorsal hump reduction without infracturing your nasal bones to close the gap left behind. If you have an open roof deformity, you would notice the formation of a rough surface where the hump was reduced because the nasal bones were not infractured to close off that space. We avoid this by breaking the nasal bones and infracturing them at the completion of your dorsal hump reduction procedure to make the roof of the nose smaller and feature an appropriately smooth contour on top.
This is corrected by infracturing the nasal bones to narrow the bony portion of the nose, reducing the width of the nostrils with a Weir alar nostril rim excision, and sometimes adding a diced cartilage graft to the dorsum of the nose to augment.
While there may be some scarring after rhinoplasty surgery, Dr. Gregory Lakin uses advanced surgical techniques that aim to minimize scarring. Incisions are typically made inside the nose, which means that any scarring is usually not visible. Any external incisions are carefully placed and closed with precision to minimize visible scarring. Patients are also provided with aftercare instructions to ensure optimal healing and minimal scarring.
Before the surgery, Dr. Lakin and our team at Illuum will provide detailed pre-operative instructions to ensure that the patient is fully prepared for the procedure. This may include avoiding certain medications and supplements, stopping smoking for at least 4 weeks before and after surgery, and arranging for transportation and aftercare support. The patient will also have a consultation with Dr. Lakin to discuss their goals, expectations, and any concerns they may have.
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks and potential complications associated with rhinoplasty. However, our team takes all necessary precautions to minimize the risk of complications and ensure a safe and successful surgery. Some potential risks include infection, bleeding, scarring, and asymmetry, but these are rare and can often be corrected with additional treatment.
During rhinoplasty surgery, Dr. Lakin will carefully realign broken bones and reset them in their proper position. This may involve using special instruments to manipulate the bones or making small incisions to access the nasal bones. Once the nasal bones are properly repositioned, Dr. Lakin may use splints or packing materials to support them and help them heal properly.
Rhinoplasty can be performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation. General anesthesia involves the patient being completely unconscious during the surgery, while local anesthesia with sedation involves numbing only the nose area and using medication to keep the patient relaxed and comfortable.
The choice of anesthesia will depend on several factors, including the extent of the rhinoplasty procedure, the patient’s medical history, and their personal preference. For more minor changes, such as a simple tip refinement or nostril size reduction, local anesthesia with sedation may be sufficient. However, for more complex rhinoplasty procedures, such as those involving significant structural changes or septoplasty, general anesthesia may be recommended for optimal comfort and safety.
Yes, rhinoplasty is considered a type of plastic surgery. Plastic surgery involves the use of surgical techniques to improve the appearance of the body while also addressing any functional problems that may be present. Rhinoplasty is a type of plastic surgery that is focused specifically on the nose and can be performed for both cosmetic and/or functional reasons. Dr. Lakin is a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience performing rhinoplasty and other plastic surgery procedures. He is committed to helping patients achieve their aesthetic goals while also addressing any functional concerns they may have.
This technique is often used for patients who need a reduction of their nasal dorsal hump greater than one millimeter. Under direct visualization through an open rhinoplasty technique, we can separate out the components of the nasal septum (upper lateral cartilage, dorsal septum, lining). Then we reduce each component separately to achieve a new dorsal height. This is followed by carefully placing all the pieces back together without violating the lining. Often times we add spreader grafts taken from septal cartilage to maintain an adequate internal nasal valve. If no spreader grafts are added, there is a risk of internal nasal valve collapse and nasal airway obstruction.
Chin implant and neck liposuction procedures are commonly combined with rhinoplasty. Sometimes the patient has a smaller chin or fuller neck, which is not noticed as much due to the patient focusing on the appearance of their nose. After the nose is corrected, the patient may begin to focus on other areas of their face which were not as noticeable before. If combined at the same time as the rhinoplasty, a chin implant or neck liposuction procedure may improve the overall appearance of the face.
Schedule a Consultation
Whether you’re looking for Dr. Lakin’s expert insight or know exactly what you’re looking for, scheduling a consultation is the obvious and easy next step. Sit down with one of Michigan’s premier plastic surgeons and start your journey into illuminating the best version of yourself.
