Introduction
Plastic surgery has become an increasingly popular option for those looking to enhance their appearance or correct various deformities. One particular area of interest is nasal augmentation, and the use of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) for augmenting the nasal base has gained attention in New York City. In this article, we will explore the list of plastic surgery hospitals in New York City that offer this procedure, along with relevant information about nasal surgery and the use of ePTFE.
Understanding Nasal Augmentation and ePTFE
Nasal Augmentation
Nasal augmentation, often part of rhinoplasty procedures, aims to change the shape, size, or balance of the nose. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, more than 213,000 people receive a nose job each year in the United States. Rhinoplasty can modify the bone and cartilage of the nasal framework. The bone of the upper portion of the nose is sculpted, the cartilage in the lower portion is reshaped, and the nasal septum may be straightened to improve breathing. It can also be used to address a variety of concerns, such as changing the size and shape of the nose, modifying the bridge, increasing or decreasing the size of the nostril openings, and balancing the facial features.
Expanded Polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE)
ePTFE is a synthetic material that has been used in nasal surgery. A study titled “Safety and Efficacy of Expanded Polytetrafluoroethylene Implants in the Surgical Management of Traumatic Nasal Deformity” (PubMed, PMID: 26110468) evaluated the use of ePTFE implants in functional nasal surgery for traumatic nasal deformities. The research conducted a 13 - year retrospective medical chart review of patients treated at a tertiary academic facial plastic and reconstructive surgery practice. The study found that in the setting of traumatic nasal deformities requiring functional nasal surgery, ePTFE implants can be used at the level of the nasal dorsum, where soft - tissue coverage is often adequate, with a low risk of complications. However, it also noted that out of 35 patients with ePTFE - repaired traumatic deformities, one experienced postoperative infection, which ultimately led to implant exposure, and another required revision due to contour irregularity and aesthetic concerns.
Plastic Surgery Hospitals in New York City Offering ePTFE Nasal Base Augmentation
Mount Sinai - New York
Overview
Mount Sinai offers a comprehensive approach to rhinoplasty and plastic surgery. Their division of facial plastic and reconstructive surgery has the goal of creating natural, long - lasting results that improve the shape, size, and distinction of the nose. The facial plastic surgeons at Mount Sinai are double board - certified in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery and otolaryngology (ear, nose, and throat). This expertise means they understand both nasal function and aesthetics, ensuring that patients not only look better but also breathe better after the surgery.
Rhinoplasty Procedures
They perform both closed/endonasal (without an external incision) and open/external rhinoplasty. Closed rhinoplasty has the advantage of no external scar and a relatively shorter operation time. Open rhinoplasty, on the other hand, allows for better visualization of the nasal anatomy and more complex alterations and grafting to be performed. Mount Sinai also takes a multidisciplinary approach. For patients with specific concerns related to nasal breathing, allergies, sinus disease, or deformity after cancer treatments, they work closely with experts in the division of rhinology and sinus surgery and the head and neck institute. In addition, they may combine procedures, such as chin implants, with rhinoplasty to improve facial balance.
Before and After Care
Patients start with an extensive consultation to identify their concerns and goals. Surgeons then develop an individualized treatment plan. Rhinoplasty surgery is usually performed on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia or a combination of local anesthesia and sedation. Before surgery, patients are given instructions on medications and recovery preparation. After surgery, a short course of antibiotics and mild pain medication may be prescribed. Most of the swelling subsides within the first two weeks, although it may take up to a year for all the swelling to fully fade. Patients are usually able to return to work or school within one to two weeks after surgery, and they are asked to avoid strenuous activities for two weeks.
Weill Cornell Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Service Offerings
Weill Cornell provides high - quality care in the full spectrum of plastic, reconstructive, and aesthetic surgery. Their clinical expertise includes cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the face, neck, eyes, nose, ears, cheekbones, and chin in both adult and pediatric populations. In terms of nasal surgery, they offer rhinoplasty and nasal reconstruction, which may involve the use of ePTFE for nasal base augmentation.
Commitment to Patients
As part of their commitment to patient - focused care, they encourage patients to actively participate in their treatment plan. Before elective surgeries, they provide extensive information about the procedure, including potential risks and complications, as well as realistic expectations of results. Most procedures are performed on an ambulatory basis, and their surgeons use the latest regional anesthetics and medications to allow for quicker recovery and faster healing.
Columbia University Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
Expertise and Programs
Columbia University is one of New York’s best hospitals and a world - class medical center. Their plastic surgeons are proficient in multiple areas of specialization, ranging from routine non - surgical cosmetic procedures to complex reconstructive operations and body contouring surgery after significant weight loss. Their cosmetic care program offers surgical and non - surgical options to improve cosmetic health, and their reconstructive care is world - leading, including nasal reconstruction which could involve ePTFE for nasal base augmentation. The division is also at the forefront of clinical and laboratory research in plastic surgery.
Plastic Surgery Team
Their plastic surgery team consists of highly skilled board - certified surgeons. For example, Christine Rohde, MD, is a chief of the division, trained in the full range of plastic reconstructive and aesthetic surgery, specializing in microsurgery, abdominal wall reconstruction, body contouring, and more. Jeffrey A. Ascherman, MD, has extensive experience, with over 75 scientific publications and participation in humanitarian surgical missions. Other surgeons on the team have their own areas of specialization and contribute to providing comprehensive plastic surgery services.
NewYork - Presbyterian
Comprehensive Surgical Options
The expert team of plastic surgeons at NewYork - Presbyterian Hospital is dedicated to improving patients’ quality of life through various cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries. They have specialists with a wide range of expertise in aesthetic procedures, including rhinoplasty, and reconstructive surgery specializations such as breast reconstruction, cleft lip and palate repair, and skin cancer treatment. The surgical departments at both NewYork - Presbyterian Hospital/Columbia University Medical Center and NewYork - Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center offer extensive reconstructive and aesthetic surgery, and the plastic surgery divisions in the departments of otolaryngology offer expert surgical care specifically for the head and neck.
NYU Langone Health
Plastic Surgery Services
NYU Langone has board - certified plastic surgeons from the Hansjörg Wyss Department of Plastic Surgery who specialize in cosmetic and reconstructive procedures for both adults and children. Their plastic surgery services cover a wide range, including cancer surgery reconstruction, cleft and congenital craniofacial surgery, hand surgery, and cosmetic surgery. For nasal procedures, they offer rhinoplasty as part of their cosmetic procedures of the face. They also have a state - of - the - art center at NYU Langone Ambulatory Care Center with full - service outpatient operating rooms, exam rooms, and a digital x - ray suite.
Special Features
NYU Langone is the only approved team in New York State with the ability to perform a face transplant for people who have experienced a traumatic injury or have a congenital facial malformation. Their plastic surgery resident clinic provides cosmetic procedures at a reduced cost, which can be an option for patients with budget considerations.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Plastic Surgery Hospital
Surgeon Qualifications
It is crucial to choose a hospital with well - qualified surgeons. Look for board - certified plastic surgeons, such as those certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Additionally, consider surgeons who have specialized training in nasal surgery and experience with using ePTFE implants. Surgeons at Mount Sinai, for example, are double board - certified in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery and otolaryngology, ensuring a high level of expertise in both nasal function and aesthetics.
Hospital Reputation
Research the reputation of the hospital. Consider factors such as patient reviews, success rates of surgeries, and the hospital’s history in plastic surgery. Hospitals like Columbia University and NewYork - Presbyterian are well - known for their high - quality medical care and research contributions in the field of plastic surgery.
Range of Services
Choose a hospital that offers a comprehensive range of services. This includes not only the nasal base augmentation procedure using ePTFE but also pre - and post - operative care, follow - up services, and the ability to handle any potential complications. Some hospitals may also offer additional services, such as combining procedures to improve facial balance, which can be beneficial for overall aesthetic results.
Cost and Insurance
Understand the cost of the procedure and check if your insurance covers any part of it. Insurance may cover surgery performed to improve breathing (e.g., deviated septum), but it usually does not cover cosmetic procedures. Make sure to get a clear estimate of the costs from the hospital and discuss payment options.
Pre - surgery Preparation
Consultation
Schedule a consultation with the surgeon at the chosen hospital. During this consultation, discuss your goals, concerns, and medical history. The surgeon will evaluate your nasal anatomy and determine if ePTFE nasal base augmentation is the right procedure for you. They will also explain the procedure in detail, including the expected results, potential risks, and recovery process.
Medical Tests
You may be required to undergo a series of medical tests, such as blood tests, imaging studies, and a physical examination. These tests help the surgeon assess your overall health and identify any potential risks or underlying conditions that may affect the surgery.
Lifestyle Changes
Before the surgery, you may need to make some lifestyle changes. This may include quitting smoking, as smoking can affect the healing process and increase the risk of complications. You may also need to avoid certain medications, such as aspirin, which can increase bleeding.
Post - surgery Recovery
Immediate Post - operative Period
After the surgery, you will be monitored in a recovery area. You may experience some pain, swelling, and bruising, which is normal. The surgeon will prescribe pain medication and antibiotics to prevent infection. You will need to keep your head elevated to reduce swelling and follow any specific instructions regarding wound care.
Short - term Recovery
Most of the swelling will subside within the first two weeks, but it may take up to a year for all the swelling to fully fade. You should expect to return to work or school within one to two weeks after surgery, depending on your individual recovery. However, you will need to avoid strenuous activities for at least two weeks to allow the nose to heal properly.
Long - term Recovery
During the long - term recovery period, you will need to attend follow - up appointments with the surgeon. The surgeon will monitor your healing progress and make sure that the ePTFE implant is functioning well. You may also need to protect your nose from trauma during this time to avoid any damage to the implant or the surgical site.
Potential Risks and Complications
Infection
As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection. In the study on ePTFE implants for nasal surgery, one patient out of 35 with ePTFE - repaired traumatic deformities experienced postoperative infection. Infections can be treated with antibiotics, but in some cases, they may lead to more serious complications, such as implant exposure.
Implant - related Complications
There may be contour irregularities or aesthetic concerns with the ePTFE implant. In the same study, one patient required revision of the implant due to these issues. Additionally, in rare cases, the implant may migrate or cause a foreign body reaction.
Bleeding and Swelling
Bleeding and swelling are common after nasal surgery. Excessive bleeding may require additional treatment, and prolonged or severe swelling may indicate a complication. However, most cases of bleeding and swelling resolve on their own with proper post - operative care.
Conclusion
In conclusion, New York City offers several excellent plastic surgery hospitals that are equipped to perform nasal base augmentation using expanded polytetrafluoroethylene. Hospitals like Mount Sinai, Weill Cornell, Columbia University, NewYork - Presbyterian, and NYU Langone Health have experienced surgeons, comprehensive services, and a commitment to patient care. When considering this procedure, it is important to carefully evaluate the hospital and surgeon based on factors such as qualifications, reputation, services, and cost. Proper pre - surgery preparation and post - surgery recovery are also essential for a successful outcome. By making an informed decision and following the surgeon's instructions, patients can achieve their desired aesthetic and functional results.
Call - to - Action
If you are interested in nasal base augmentation using ePTFE or want to learn more about plastic surgery in New York City, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of the hospitals mentioned in this article. You can also further explore the topic by researching patient testimonials and additional medical literature. Share this article with others who may be interested in this procedure to help them make informed decisions about their plastic surgery journey.
