Yeung Institute

Nose Surgery (Rhinoplasty)

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Many people feel self-conscious about the appearance of their nose and also may have breathing difficulties. Cosmetic nasal surgery can reduce the overall size of the
nose, refine its shape, remove a hump, or even straighten a twist. The definition of Rhinoplasty is, literally, shaping the nose.

How it’s done The majority of incisions are made inside the nose, where they are invisible. In some cases, a tiny incision is made underneath the tip of the nose. The bones
and cartilages of the nose are then modified and contoured until the desired
shape is attained. The procedure can be performed in about three to four hours depending on the structure and anatomy of the nose. A small splint is worn over the nose for several days. Most people are able to return to normal activities within a week or so, as bruising is usually minimal.

Chin Augmentation Sometimes an old snapshot may reveal a less than perfect profile. Often, a nose can appear too large, or a face too weak due to a small or receding chin. Chin augmentation is a simple operation which can make a dramatic improvement by building up a small chin and improving overall facial balance with a biocompatible implant.

How it’s done A small incision is made inside the mouth allowing a small prosthesis to be inserted. After closing the incision, a dressing is applied. When healed, the incision is invisible. This procedure frequently is done in conjunction with a nasal refinement surgery, or facelift.

What to expect after surgery Discomfort is mild and easily controlled by medication. You can be up and around the same day as the surgery and most patients return to work and normal activities within a few days after the dressing is removed.

Many factors come into play when a person starts considering a rhinoplasty. Noses are not an age-dependant factor but can sometimes be an ethnic factor. Dr. Yeung has experience with all ethnicities and can achieve the desired look tailor made for your needs. Broken noses and simply wanting a different shape nose are reasons for having a rhinoplasty. Dr. Yeung also specializes in revision rhinoplasty for those who have had unfortunate results from past surgeons.

Am I a Suitable Candidate?

After the nose is fully developed, typically around the age 15, then concerns of shape and size can be addressed. Most broken noses are treated initially at the emergency room and only for functional reasons. Dr. Yeung can improve the appearance thereafter to either change to a better shape and size or to regain prior look. Revision surgeries are more complicated and can include cartilage graft for the internal structure if an insufficient amount is present.

I’ve heard you can get a nose job under insurance. Does the Yeung Institute do submit a rhinoplasty under insurance?

Rhinoplasty and Septoplasty are often misunderstood. Although they do directly effect one another, insurance does not cover most cosmetic procedures. When the appearance is a factor then a rhinoplasty is what is needed; however sometimes the septal cartilage is damaged or needs to be restructured to assist in a better airway, then insurance comes into play. If breathing is the main problem, Dr. Yeung can still help. Visit http://www.houstonsinussurgery.com for more information.

Where will my scars be at?

There are two types of rhinoplasty. First is a closed rhinoplasty, where no incisions will be made on the skin outside of the nose. The second type is an open rhinoplasty. A small incision will be made under the tip of the nose. As with all of Dr. Yeung’s incisions, he takes special care in insuring a minimal appearance of any scars.

How long does the procedure take?

For a primary rhinoplasty, the procedure time can take anywhere from 3-6 hours. For a revision rhinoplasty, the time can be even longer.  Time is a concern to many for health reason involving anesthesia or simply for financial reasons. See the Anesthesia link for frequently asked questions regarding our procedures. Anesthesia is a cost separate of the other fees for surgery. If cost is a factor, we can give you the Anesthesia Group’s information to see what financing options are available to you.

What risks or complications are involved in a Rhinoplasty?

Every surgical procedure involves a certain amount of risk and it is important that you understand these risks and the possible complications associated with them. In addition, every procedure has limitations. An individual’s choice to undergo a surgical procedure is based on the comparison of the risk to potential benefit. Although the majority of patients do not experience these complications, you should discuss each of them with Dr. Yeung to make sure you understand all possible consequences of a rhinoplasty.

Any surgical procedure requires smokers and use of NSAIDS to be eliminated two weeks prior to surgery. A skin care regimen will be recommended prior to prep the skin for surgery. All detailed surgical requirements will be reviewed during your comprehensive pre-operative appointment.

How long is the Recovery?

Recovery and downtime will vary upon exact procedure. Typical downtime with most procedures is 10-14 days. You will take up to a year to completely heal, however at 2 weeks most are presentable.

How much does a Nose Surgery cost?

All procedures are personalized for your needs specifically. To better assist you financially in achieving your goals, we offer payments plans on behalf of Care Credit, Chase, and Capitol One. Discounts may apply to cash payments. Arrangements will be discussed during the financial consultation.