Rhinoplasty, commonly referred to as nose surgery or a nose job, is a surgical procedure that can modify the shape and proportions of the nose and, when structural issues are present, address certain breathing difficulties. In Longueuil, Dr. Léonard Bergeron, a plastic surgeon with a subspecialty in cranio-maxillofacial surgery, tailors the surgical approach to each patient’s anatomy and goals.
What can rhinoplasty correct?
Rhinoplasty may be considered to modify different aspects of the nose. Depending on the patient’s anatomy and goals, the procedure may help to:
- Reduce a nasal hump
- Refine or redefine the nasal tip
- Straighten the nose
- Reduce certain proportions of the nose
- Reduce the width of the nostrils
- Define the nasal bridge in certain cases, including during Asian rhinoplasty.
During the consultation, Dr. Bergeron evaluates the structure of the nose, its proportions in relation to the face and the changes the patient would like to achieve. Patients should also mention any allergies that affect breathing or difficulty inhaling so that the nasal structures, including the septum, can be evaluated when necessary.
What is ultrasonic rhinoplasty with a piezotome?
A piezotome is a high-precision instrument that uses ultrasonic technology and may be used during certain steps of rhinoplasty. Whether it is used depends on the modifications required and the patient’s anatomy.
Dr. Bergeron does not limit his surgical approach to a single instrument. Depending on the needs of the procedure, he may use the piezotome, fine rasps, custom saws and other surgical instruments to adapt the reshaping of the nose to each individual case.
Rhinoplasty before and after
Before-and-after photos illustrate different types of corrections according to each patient’s anatomy and goals. The examples below include primary rhinoplasty, revision rhinoplasty and procedures involving the use of a piezotome.
before
after
before
after
Secondary rhinoplasty: correction of a widened nasal tip (“boxy tip”) following a prior surgery performed by another surgeon. Postoperative result of the revision aimed at improving nasal tip definition and facial harmony. 3D Photo.
before
after
Secondary rhinoplasty: correction of a widened nasal tip (“boxy tip”) following a prior surgery performed by another surgeon. Postoperative result of the revision aimed at improving nasal tip definition and facial harmony. 3D photo.
before
after
Rhinoplasty to correct a long, convex nose with a drooping tip. 3D photo.
before
after
Rhinoplasty to correct a long, convex nose with a drooping tip. 3D photo.
“Note: These photos are published for informational purposes only to provide information about the nature of the procedure. They should not be considered a guarantee of results.”
What happens during rhinoplasty surgery?
The surgical approach varies according to the corrections that need to be made. Depending on the complexity of the procedure, rhinoplasty generally takes between 1½ and 2½ hours.
What type of anaesthesia is used?
Most rhinoplasty procedures are performed under general anaesthesia. Some more limited nose surgeries may be performed under local anaesthesia, including certain nasal tip corrections or the placement of an implant during Asian rhinoplasty.
Where are rhinoplasty incisions made?
Depending on the surgical approach selected, incisions may be made inside the nose as well as underneath the nose. They are therefore generally discreet.
What instruments are used during rhinoplasty?
Dr. Bergeron uses different precision instruments according to the needs of the procedure, including the piezotome, fine rasps and custom saws. The instruments are selected according to the nasal structures that need to be modified and each patient’s surgical plan.
What is recovery like after rhinoplasty?
Recovery takes place gradually over the weeks following surgery. Recovery times may vary according to the procedure performed and each patient’s individual healing process.
These timelines are provided as general guidelines. Postoperative recommendations are adapted to each patient by Dr. Bergeron.
Frequently asked questions about rhinoplasty
Ultrasonic rhinoplasty involves the use of an instrument called a piezotome during certain steps of nasal reshaping. Whether the instrument is used depends on the surgical changes required and the patient’s anatomy. A piezotome is one of the precision instruments that may be used during rhinoplasty. Dr. Bergeron selects the instruments required according to the nasal structures that need to be modified and the surgical plan. Depending on the complexity of the procedure, rhinoplasty generally takes between 1½ and 2½ hours. Returning to work may generally be considered after approximately one week. Patients who work directly with the public may prefer to allow approximately two weeks. Cardiovascular activities can generally be resumed after approximately three weeks, other sports activities after four weeks and contact sports after six weeks. When a structural issue within the nose contributes to breathing difficulties, it can be evaluated during the consultation. Patients should tell Dr. Bergeron about any breathing difficulties or allergies that may affect nasal breathing. Changes begin to become visible during the first few weeks following surgery. Mild swelling, particularly around the nasal tip, may continue to improve over several months. What is ultrasonic rhinoplasty?
What is a piezotome used for during rhinoplasty?
How long does rhinoplasty surgery take?
When can I return to work after rhinoplasty?
When can I exercise after rhinoplasty?
Can rhinoplasty also address breathing problems?
How long does it take to see the final results of rhinoplasty?
Schedule a rhinoplasty consultation in Longueuil
A consultation with Dr. Léonard Bergeron provides an opportunity to evaluate the shape and structure of your nose, discuss your goals and determine the surgical approach and instruments best suited to your individual situation.
