Nasal reconstruction is a crucial and intricate procedure that can restore both the function and appearance of the nose. In New York City, where medical expertise abounds, several plastic departments stand out for their excellent word - of - mouth. This article will explore the top four plastic departments renowned for nasal reconstruction in the city.
1. City Facial Plastics
Overview
City Facial Plastics, located in midtown Manhattan, is a leading institution for nasal reconstruction. Dr. Gary Linkov, a respected reconstructive and facial plastic surgeon, is at the helm of this department. He has spent years helping patients with facial trauma recover the function and form of their facial features, especially the nose.
Expertise in Nasal Reconstruction
Dr. Linkov adheres to several key principles during nasal reconstruction. One of these is the “replace like with like” principle, which involves using the same type of tissue to replace lost tissue. For example, he may replace the skin on the tip of the nose with adjacent skin to ensure a color and thickness match. The concept of aesthetic units is also vital. The nose is divided into subunits, and if 50% or more of a subunit is affected, the remainder of the subunit is removed and the entire subunit is replaced for an ideal aesthetic outcome.
The reconstructive ladder, a step - by - step process for nasal septal reconstruction, is followed. It starts with simple solutions like letting the area heal on its own (secondary intention) and progresses to more advanced flap procedures. The department uses advanced techniques and cutting - edge medical technology, enabling them to restore the function of the nasal passages and ensure the balance and aesthetics of the nose appearance.
Patient Eligibility
There are various candidates for nasal reconstruction at City Facial Plastics. Cancer patients, after the removal of skin cancers like basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma on the nose, may require nose reconstruction to close the defect. Trauma victims, whether from motor vehicle accidents, sports injuries, or other incidents that cause nasal injuries, can benefit from the procedure. Additionally, patients with congenital defects, such as cleft lip patients with nasal deformities or those with nasal dermoid cysts, are also suitable candidates.
Reconstruction Options
The plastic surgery nose reconstruction options at City Facial Plastics include secondary intention healing, where the wound closes gradually on its own; primary intention, which is suture closure for smaller defects; skin grafts, where skin from another area like the back of the ear is placed over the nose defect; local flaps, which involve rearranging, advancing, or rotating adjacent tissue; regional flaps, recruiting tissue from the cheek or forehead; cartilage or bone grafts to provide support; and the use of alloplastic materials for large nasal defects with significant loss of structural support.
Recovery and Risks
Recovery after nasal reconstruction at City Facial Plastics depends on the type of reconstruction. Swelling, bruising, light bleeding, and pain are common in the first 1 - 2 weeks. Patients are advised to apply antibiotic ointment to the incisions for at least the first week. Larger regional flap reconstructions may require additional staged procedures, and patients may experience breathing difficulties or cosmetic deformities between procedures. The possible risks include unfavorable cosmetic outcome, pain, bleeding, infection, poor scarring, nasal breathing difficulty, nasal valve collapse, asymmetry, and prolonged healing.
Cost and Consultation
Most cases of nasal reconstruction at City Facial Plastics are covered by insurance as they are usually not done for purely cosmetic reasons. However, some patients may not have insurance coverage or the surgeon may not accept in - network insurance. In such cases, the cost, which includes the surgeon’s fee, facility fee, and anesthesia fee, is calculated based on the complexity of the nasal reconstruction and the number of anticipated stages. Patients can schedule a consultation by calling 212.439.5177.
2. Dr. Joseph Rousso's Practice
Overview
Dr. Joseph Rousso is one of the top facial plastic and reconstructive surgeons in New York City. He has world - wide experience in reconstructive facial surgery, with rhinoplasty and facial reconstruction as his primary specialties, both of which are essential for nasal reconstruction.
Reconstructive Rhinoplasty Approach
Unlike cosmetic rhinoplasty, nasal reconstruction often involves more biological and medical issues. It's not just about changing the shape of the nose but also rebuilding damaged or lost tissues, which can include skin, bone, and cartilage grafts depending on the extent of the injury. Dr. Rousso understands the importance of both the functional aspect and the aesthetic impact of the nose on the overall face. His goal is to achieve both biological function and aesthetic form with every reconstructive rhinoplasty procedure, giving patients a beautiful, balanced, and functional nose after severe trauma.
Patient Testimonials
Patients who have undergone nasal reconstruction at Dr. Rousso's practice have been highly satisfied with the results. His extensive education, experience, and talent as a facial plastic surgeon are well - recognized, especially when it comes to achieving balanced and natural - appearing results. Patients appreciate his ability to understand their concerns and provide personalized treatment plans.
Consultation
If you have suffered a trauma to your nose or have other issues affecting the nose's structure, you can contact Dr. Rousso's office in NYC for a nasal reconstruction consultation. His expertise and dedication to patient care make him a top choice for those in need of nasal reconstruction.
3. Mount Sinai's Division of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Overview
Mount Sinai's division of facial plastic and reconstructive surgery is a premier destination for nasal reconstruction. The facial plastic surgeons at Mount Sinai are double - board - certified in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery and otolaryngology (ear, nose, and throat). Their vast expertise in nasal function and nasal and facial aesthetics ensures that patients not only get a better - looking nose but also improved nasal breathing.
Rhinoplasty Techniques
Mount Sinai offers both closed/endonasal (without an external incision) and open/external rhinoplasty. The choice of approach depends on the patient's unique anatomy and functional and aesthetic goals. Closed rhinoplasty has the advantage of no external scar and a relatively shorter operation time, while open rhinoplasty allows for better visualization of the nasal anatomy and more complex alterations and grafting.
Rhinoplasty at Mount Sinai can be used to change the size and shape of the nose, modify the bridge, increase or decrease the size of the nostril openings, balance the facial features, improve nasal breathing for patients with chronic sinus problems or anatomical issues, and reconstruct previously injured or disfigured noses.
Multidisciplinary Approach
For patients with specific concerns related to nasal breathing, nasal allergies, sinus disease, or deformity after cancer treatments, Mount Sinai takes a multidisciplinary approach. They work closely with the widely recognized experts in the division of rhinology and sinus surgery and the head and neck institute. Combined surgeries may be performed when appropriate to provide comprehensive care.
Adolescent Rhinoplasty
While rhinoplasty is common among teenagers and youth, if it's for cosmetic reasons, younger patients should wait until their nasal bone has reached its adult size. Girls typically reach this stage around age 15 after puberty, and boys may need to wait until 17 or 18 years or older. However, if the surgery is to correct a breathing problem or repair the bone after an injury, it can be performed before the patient is fully grown.
Cost and After - care
Insurance may cover surgery performed to improve breathing, such as for a deviated septum, but not for cosmetic reasons. Mount Sinai provides patients with expected costs prior to any intervention. After surgery, patients are given a short course of antibiotics and mild pain medication. The majority of swelling subsides within the first two weeks, and patients can usually return to work or school within one to two weeks, with a recommendation to avoid strenuous activities for two weeks.
4. NYU Langone Health's Division of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Overview
NYU Langone Health's division of facial plastic and reconstructive surgery provides comprehensive training for surgeons in facial cosmetic and reconstructive surgical procedures, including nasal reconstruction. Their faculty members are among New York City's most experienced facial plastic surgeons, and they have authored numerous textbooks and scientific papers.
Clinical Services
The division offers a wide range of patient services related to nasal reconstruction. This includes surgical treatment for nasal obstruction, reconstruction for basal and squamous cell skin cancers, rhinoplasty, and craniofacial surgery including cleft lip, cleft palate, microtia, and other ear malformations. They also provide multidisciplinary treatment for patients with early or chronic facial paralysis, with a specialized facial paralysis and reanimation center.
Training and Experience
Residents and fellows at NYU Langone have the opportunity to train with world - renowned experts in facial reconstruction. They gain hands - on experience working with a diverse patient population in various high - volume settings, including a level 1 trauma center in a public hospital, the veterans affairs healthcare system, and the private practices of the faculty members. This extensive training allows the surgeons to handle complex nasal reconstruction cases with proficiency.
Patient - Centered Care
The division is committed to patient - centered care. They ensure that patients are well - informed about the procedures, including potential risks and complications, and help patients set realistic expectations of the results. The surgeons work closely with patients to develop individualized treatment plans that address their specific needs and concerns.
Comparative Analysis of the Four Plastic Departments
| Department | Unique Selling Proposition | Reconstruction Techniques | Patient Eligibility | After - care |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| City Facial Plastics | Dr. Gary Linkov's expertise following strict reconstruction principles like “replace like with like” and using aesthetic units for better outcomes. | Secondary intention healing, primary intention, skin grafts, local and regional flaps, cartilage/bone grafts, alloplastic materials. | Cancer patients, trauma victims, patients with congenital defects. | Antibiotic ointment application, removal of sutures and bolsters at 1 - week follow - up, additional care for larger regional flap reconstructions. |
| Dr. Joseph Rousso's Practice | Dr. Rousso's focus on achieving both functional and aesthetic goals in reconstructive rhinoplasty with world - wide experience. | Reconstructive rhinoplasty with skin, bone, and cartilage grafts as needed. | Patients with nose trauma or structural issues. | Personalized care based on the patient's specific condition and procedure. |
| Mount Sinai's Division | Double - board - certified surgeons, offering both closed and open rhinoplasty techniques, and a multidisciplinary approach for complex cases. | Closed/endonasal and open/external rhinoplasty, combined with septoplasty for breathing improvement. | Patients for cosmetic and functional nose improvement, including adolescents under specific conditions. | Antibiotics, mild pain medication, advice on swelling management, return to normal activities schedule. |
| NYU Langone Health's Division | Extensive training of surgeons, a wide range of clinical services, and a specialized center for facial paralysis treatment. | Multiple nasal reconstruction techniques for various nasal and craniofacial conditions. | Patients with nasal obstruction, skin cancers, cleft lip/palate, ear malformations, and facial paralysis. | Patient - centered approach with detailed information about procedures and individualized after - care plans. |
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Plastic Department for Nasal Reconstruction
Surgeon's Expertise
The experience and expertise of the surgeon are of utmost importance. Look for surgeons who are board - certified in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery and have a proven track record in nasal reconstruction. Check their educational background, years of experience, and any specialized training they have undergone.
Reconstruction Techniques
Different plastic departments may offer various reconstruction techniques. Research and understand which techniques are best suited for your specific condition. Some techniques may result in less scarring, shorter recovery times, or better functional outcomes.
Patient Reviews and Testimonials
Reading patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the quality of care and the results achieved by the plastic department. Look for reviews from patients who have undergone nasal reconstruction to get an idea of their experiences, satisfaction levels, and any potential issues they may have faced.
Cost and Insurance Coverage
Consider the cost of the nasal reconstruction procedure and whether your insurance will cover it. Discuss the financial aspects with the plastic department and understand all the fees involved, including the surgeon’s fee, facility fee, and anesthesia fee. Some departments may also offer payment plans or financing options.
After - care and Support
Adequate after - care is crucial for a successful recovery. Inquire about the after - care services provided by the plastic department, such as follow - up appointments, wound care instructions, and support in case of any complications. A department that offers comprehensive after - care will ensure a smoother recovery process.
Conclusion
In New York City, these four plastic departments - City Facial Plastics, Dr. Joseph Rousso's Practice, Mount Sinai's Division of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, and NYU Langone Health's Division of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery - stand out for their excellent word - of - mouth in nasal reconstruction. Each department has its unique strengths, whether it's the surgeon's expertise, the range of reconstruction techniques, or the patient - centered care. When considering nasal reconstruction, it's essential to carefully evaluate these factors and choose the department that best meets your needs.
If you're in need of nasal reconstruction, don't hesitate to reach out to these departments for a consultation. Take the first step towards restoring the function and appearance of your nose and regaining your confidence. Share this article with others who may be interested in nasal reconstruction in New York City, and explore more about the various aspects of nasal reconstruction and plastic surgery on our website.
