Introduction
New York City is renowned for its top - notch medical facilities and advanced plastic surgery procedures. Among them, septal cartilage rhinoplasty has gained significant popularity. The plastic surgery departments in many New York City hospitals, especially the so - called People's Hospital's plastic surgery department, are at the forefront of providing high - quality septal cartilage rhinoplasty. In this article, we will explore in detail about septal cartilage rhinoplasty, including its procedures, benefits, risks, and the prominent plastic surgery departments in New York City that excel in this field.
Understanding Rhinoplasty and Septal Cartilage Rhinoplasty
What is Rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty, commonly known as a “nose job,” is one of the most common cosmetic surgeries performed in the U.S. According to the latest statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, more than 213,000 people receive a nose job each year. The nose is a central and defining feature of the face. Rhinoplasty aims to improve the shape, size, and distinction of the nose, while also enhancing its function in some cases. A rhinoplasty changes the shape of the nose by modifying the bone and cartilage of the nasal framework. The nasal septum is often involved in the process to improve breathing as well as aesthetics.
Role of Septal Cartilage in Rhinoplasty
Septal cartilage is an excellent source of cartilage for rhinoplasty. It can be molded for almost any use and is often the first choice of graft material because the septum is very commonly exposed during rhinoplasty, and often treated for deviations during the procedure. As a result, there are no additional external incisions required to harvest the graft. Surgeons use septal cartilage to support and contour the nose, correcting various nasal issues such as a deviated septum, dorsal humps, and tip irregularities.
Types of Rhinoplasty Procedures
Primary Rhinoplasty
This surgery is performed for the first time to address cosmetic concerns and/or nasal breathing. It focuses on creating a natural - looking nose that suits the patient's facial features. For example, if a patient has a prominent dorsal hump or a bulbous tip, primary rhinoplasty can correct these issues. In many cases, primary rhinoplasty may involve using septal cartilage to reshape the nose and improve its functionality.
Revision Rhinoplasty
This procedure is performed to address concerns or deformities resulting from prior nose surgeries. It can be more complex than primary rhinoplasty as the nasal anatomy has already been altered. Surgeons may need to use septal cartilage or other grafting materials to correct previous mistakes and achieve the desired results. Revision rhinoplasty requires a high level of skill and experience, which are often found in the leading plastic surgery departments in New York City.
Open and Closed Rhinoplasty Techniques
| Technique | Description | Advantages |
|---|---|---|
| Closed (Endonasal) Rhinoplasty | During this closed surgical approach, all of the incisions are made inside the nose. The surgeon works through these internal incisions to access and modify the nasal framework. | The main advantage is the lack of an external scar. It also has a relatively shorter duration of the operation. This approach is suitable for less complex cases where minimal access is required. |
| Open (External) Rhinoplasty | In this open approach, a small incision is added at the base of the nose to increase the surgical field of vision. The surgeon can then better visualize the nasal anatomy and perform more complex alterations and grafting. | It allows for better visualization of the nasal anatomy, enabling more precise and complex procedures. This is especially useful when significant structural changes are needed, such as using septal cartilage for major reconstructions. |
Reasons for Septal Cartilage Rhinoplasty
Aesthetic Reasons
Many people choose septal cartilage rhinoplasty for aesthetic purposes. They may be unhappy with the size, shape, or symmetry of their nose. For instance, a person with a wide nasal base or flaring nostrils may opt for septal cartilage rhinoplasty to achieve a more refined and proportionate nose. Surgeons can use septal cartilage to reshape the nose, such as narrowing the nasal bridge, refining the tip, or reducing the size of the nostrils.
Functional Reasons
A deviated septum is a common cause of breathing problems. When the septum deviates from the center line and into one of the nasal cavities, it can impede airflow due to narrowing that occurs in the affected cavity. Septal cartilage rhinoplasty can correct a deviated septum, improving nasal breathing. Additionally, for patients with chronic sinus problems or anatomical problems, the procedure can help to alleviate these issues by straightening the septum and optimizing the nasal passageways.
Leading Plastic Surgery Departments in New York City
Mount Sinai's Division of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
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, as well as nasal and facial aesthetics, means that patients will not only have a nose that looks better but also breathes better. They perform both closed/endonasal and open/external rhinoplasty. For septal cartilage rhinoplasty, they can effectively use septal cartilage to create natural, long - lasting results that improve the shape, size, and distinction of the nose.
NewYork - Presbyterian Hospital
The expert team of plastic surgeons at NewYork - Presbyterian Hospital is dedicated to improving patients’ quality of life through various cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries. Their plastic surgery divisions, especially in the departments of otolaryngology, offer expert surgical care for the head and neck. When it comes to septal cartilage rhinoplasty, they have the resources and skills to address both aesthetic and functional concerns, using septal cartilage in a precise and effective manner.
NYU Langone Health
NYU Langone specialists, including otolaryngologists and plastic and reconstructive surgeons, can perform one or more procedures to reposition the septum and provide more space in the nasal passages. They use minimally invasive techniques for surgeries such as septoplasty, which is often combined with rhinoplasty. In cases where septal cartilage is used, they are able to achieve excellent results in terms of both improving breathing and enhancing the appearance of the nose.
Before and After Septal Cartilage Rhinoplasty
Before Surgery
- Consultation: Patients interested in septal cartilage rhinoplasty will start with an extensive consultation. The surgeon will identify areas of concern and review the patient's goals. They will also perform a detailed examination of the nose, including assessing the septum and the overall nasal structure.
- Medical Evaluation: Patients may need to stop any blood - thinning medicines as instructed by the surgeon. They also need to see their regular health care provider to ensure it is safe for them to have surgery. To aid with healing, patients are advised to stop smoking at least 2 to 3 weeks before and after surgery.
- Preparation: Patients should arrange for someone to drive them home after surgery. They may also need to fill prescriptions and acquire other recovery medications in advance.
After Surgery
- Initial Recovery: After surgery, patients are usually given a short course of antibiotics and mild pain medication as some mild discomfort may persist for the first few days. The majority of swelling subsides within the first two weeks, although it may take up to a year for all the swelling to fully fade.
- Restrictions: Patients should expect to return to work or school within one to two weeks after surgery. However, they are asked to avoid strenuous activities for two weeks after surgery. They may also need to use extra pillows to keep their head elevated when resting on their back.
- Follow - up: Regular follow - up appointments are scheduled to monitor the patient's progress. The surgeon will check the healing of the nose, including the condition of the septal cartilage graft and the overall nasal appearance.
Risks and Complications of Septal Cartilage Rhinoplasty
While septal cartilage rhinoplasty is generally a safe procedure, there are some risks involved. These include:
- Anesthesia Risks: Reactions to medicines and problems breathing during anesthesia are general risks associated with any surgical procedure. Surgeons take precautions to minimize these risks, but they still exist.
- Bleeding and Infection: There is a risk of bleeding during or after the surgery. Infections can also occur, which may require treatment with antibiotics. The risk of bleeding and infection can be reduced by following the surgeon's pre - and post - operative instructions.
- Septal Complications: Rare complications such as septal hematoma, septal perforation, and hyposmia (decreased sense of smell) have been reported. These complications are more likely to occur if the surgery is not performed correctly or if there are unforeseen anatomical factors.
- Unsatisfactory Results: There is a possibility that the patient may not be satisfied with the final results of the rhinoplasty. This could be due to factors such as unmet aesthetic expectations or unexpected changes in the nose's function.
Candidates for Septal Cartilage Rhinoplasty
Not everyone is a suitable candidate for septal cartilage rhinoplasty. Ideal candidates include:
- Healthy Individuals: Patients should be in good overall health. Individuals with untreated diabetes, bleeding diathesis, or severe hypertension may not be suitable candidates as these conditions can increase the risk of complications during and after surgery.
- Appropriate Age: If the surgery is for cosmetic reasons, younger patients should wait until they stop growing and their nasal bone has reached its adult size. Typically, for girls this occurs after puberty around age 15, while boys may need to wait longer until they are 17 or 18 years or older. However, if the surgical procedure is being performed to correct a breathing problem or repair the bone after an injury, it can be performed before the patient is fully grown.
- Realistic Expectations: Patients should have realistic expectations about the results of the surgery. They should understand that the goal is to achieve a natural - looking nose that enhances their facial features and improves nasal function, but not to completely change their appearance.
Cost of Septal Cartilage Rhinoplasty in New York City
The cost of septal cartilage rhinoplasty in New York City can vary widely. It depends on several factors such as the complexity of the procedure, the experience of the surgeon, and the location of the surgical facility. Insurance may cover surgery performed to improve breathing (i.e., deviated septum), but it does not cover surgery that is done for cosmetic reasons. On average, the cost can range from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars. Patients are advised to discuss the expected costs with their surgeon during the consultation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, septal cartilage rhinoplasty is a valuable procedure that can address both aesthetic and functional concerns related to the nose. The plastic surgery departments in New York City, such as those at Mount Sinai, NewYork - Presbyterian, and NYU Langone Health, are at the forefront of providing high - quality septal cartilage rhinoplasty. They have experienced surgeons who are skilled in using septal cartilage to achieve excellent results. However, like any surgical procedure, it has its risks and requires careful consideration. Patients should have thorough consultations with their surgeons, understand the procedure, and have realistic expectations. If you are considering septal cartilage rhinoplasty, take the time to research and choose a reputable plastic surgery department and surgeon in New York City. To learn more about septal cartilage rhinoplasty or to schedule a consultation, reach out to one of the leading plastic surgery departments mentioned in this article today.
