Facial Plastic Surgeons differ from Plastic Surgeons in that they specialize exclusively on the face, head, and neck. They often have further specialized training, like Dr. Pero has in rhinoplasty, which ensure their mastery of complex facial procedures.
This specialized training is essential in revision cases and focused procedures such as preservation and ethnic rhinoplasty.
Rhinoplasty (nose reshaping) is the third most requested cosmetic surgical procedure according to a 2017 statistics report from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. A rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure to reshape the nose. During surgery, the bone and cartilage are reshaped. When the underlying structures are changed, the skin conforms to the new shape of the nose.
What rhinoplasty techniques does Dr. Pero use?
Dr. Pero customizes each rhinoplasty to the patient’s unique anatomy and goals by utilizing preservation, structural, or combined techniques.
Dr. Pero is skilled in both methods and may use a combination of techniques to deliver balanced, natural-looking results that also improve nasal function. To achieve the highest level of precision, Dr. Pero uses a piezotome, an ultrasonic tool that gently reshapes bone with minimal trauma to surrounding tissues. This results in less swelling and bruising, a more refined contour, and a smoother recovery.
Who is a good candidate for a rhinoplasty?
You may be a good candidate for rhinoplasty if:
Are there any age limits for surgery?
Rhinoplasty is not recommended for females until puberty is complete and the nasal anatomy is not expected to change or grow appreciably, usually around the age of 15 for females or the age of 16 for males. This, however, is a guideline and doesn’t dismiss the need for minor rhinoplasties or the correction of certain functional problems at an earlier age.
Careful assessment of the younger patient is stressed to determine maturity and motivation. Any decision to undergo such surgery should come from the patient and not from social or parental pressure.
What are the benefits of rhinoplasty surgery?
The benefits of rhinoplasty surgery vary per patient. For some, the benefit of rhinoplasty surgery is purely functional where an airway obstruction has been eliminated and has improved the patient’s breathing. For others, the benefit may be purely cosmetic where the result offers the patient a new social identity after surgery.
What is the cost for rhinoplasty surgery?
Rhinoplasty costs vary but often include:
A surgeon’s fee is often based on experience, the type of procedure used, and the geographic office location.
Is rhinoplasty covered by health insurance?
Functional rhinoplasty might be covered by health insurance, if the procedure is performed to improve breathing function due to an obstructed airway. This procedure, whether performed alone or in conjunction with cosmetic rhinoplasty, is considered reconstructive and may be covered by insurance.
This required a detailed examination to verify the cause of your breathing impairment and prior authorization from your insurer.
Valuable insights from Dr. Pero’s video library to help you decide if rhinoplasty is right for you.
Does North Texas Facial Plastic Surgery offer financing options?
Yes, North Texas Facial Plastic Surgery offers financing options, including CareCredit. We also accept Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) debit cards for qualifying medical expenses.
What can you expect from a consultation for rhinoplasty?
During your rhinoplasty consultation, you will be asked specific questions about your general health status and if you have any pre-existing health conditions or risk factors.
It is very important that your surgeon has a clear understanding of your past medical and social history, so please be honest with your answers.
If you are interested in having aesthetic rhinoplasty surgery, your surgeon may ask you what you dislike about your nose, the correction you desire, and your motivation for having the surgery.
Additionally, your rhinoplasty surgeon will discuss with you:
• Your surgical goals with regard to both appearance and breathing.
• Explain the options available to you for nose reshaping.
• Examine and measure your face, including aesthetic analysis of the nose.
• Take photographs for preoperative analysis and planning of the procedure.
• Discuss your specific nose surgery options.
• Recommend a course of treatment.
• Discuss likely outcomes of nose surgery and any risk or potential complications.
• Perform computer imaging of proposed changes to the appearance of your nose
The aesthetic analysis of the nose is very important. The goals of analysis are to define external nasal deformities, predict the underlying anatomic variations, and determine the appropriate surgical intervention. A thorough analysis includes observation, inspection, and palpation so that all details are considered.
This review of your medical and social history, along with a preoperative analysis will help the surgeon determine if the deformity can be corrected, should be corrected, and if the correction has the potential to cause any nasal obstruction.
If your surgeon determines, after careful analysis, that you are a candidate for rhinoplasty surgery, this is the time to have any of your own questions answered as well. From there, your surgeon will work with you to formulate a surgical plan that will clearly delineate what you may or may not expect from surgery.
Will there be any medical tests required?
An endoscopy may be performed with a small endoscope to examine your nose. If your surgeon finds any clinical evidence of sinus disease, computed tomography (CT scan) may be ordered to rule out sinus pathology.
What are the risks and complications of rhinoplasty surgery?
The risks of rhinoplasty surgery may include:
• Anesthesia risks
• Infection
• Poor wound healing and scarring
• Change in skin sensation (numbness or pain)
• Visible irregularities
• Asymmetries, asymmetric nostrils
• Nasal septal perforation
• Cerebrospinal fluid leak
• Decreased sense of smell
• Difficulty breathing through the nose
• Skin discoloration and swelling
• Results of surgery differing from the simulated outcome
• The eventual necessity of a revision rhinoplasty surgery
Before surgery, you will be asked to sign an Informed Consent, to ensure that you fully understand the procedure and any risks or potential complications as identified above.
We get to know you, understand your needs, spend time with you, and learn who you are, what you need, and how we can help you.
After you decide to move forward, we’ll guide you through a comprehensive consultation featuring advanced 3D imaging. Together, we’ll decide every detail of your procedure and ensure everything is organized to meet your needs. Whether you’re exploring insurance coverage or arranging payment, we’ll assist you every step of the way to ensure a smooth process.
On the day of your surgery, you’ll arrive at our surgical center where our team will greet you warmly. We’ll ensure you’re fully prepared, comfortable, and relaxed. We also coordinate with your loved ones to keep them informed throughout the process.
Medications are administered for your comfort during the surgical procedure. The choices include intravenous sedation or general anesthesia. In most cases, general anesthesia is preferable and may actually be safer. Your doctor will recommend the best choice for you.
Rhinoplasty is performed either using a closed procedure, where the incision is hidden inside the nose or an open procedure, where an incision is made across the columella, the narrow strip of tissue that separates the nostrils. Fortunately, this is a very favorable area for wound healing with minimal scar formation. The incision allows the surgeon to gently raise the skin and soft tissue that covers the nasal bones and cartilage, allowing access to reshape the structure of the nose.
An overly large nose may be reduced by removing bone or cartilage. Often, surgery of the nose may require the addition of cartilage grafts. Most commonly, cartilage from the septum, the partition in the middle of the nose, is used for this purpose. Cartilage from the ear and/or a section of rib cartilage can be used in some cases as well.
If the septum is deviated, it can be straightened and the projections inside the nose reduced to improve breathing.
Once the underlying structure of the nose is sculpted to the desired shape, nasal skin and tissue are redraped and incisions are closed.
You’ll begin your recovery process, and shortly after, you’ll have a follow-up visit with Dr. Pero. During this visit, he will ensure everything is healing as planned, explain your recovery timeline, and provide detailed instructions on how to care for the area. We’re committed to your well-being long after the procedure – you’re never left alone. If any concerns arise or you have questions, our team is always available to support you and make sure you are completely satisfied with your results
How long does it take to heal from rhinoplasty surgery?
While initial swelling subsides within a few weeks, it may take up to a year for your new nasal contour to refine fully. During this time you may notice gradual changes in the appearance of your nose as it refines to a more permanent outcome.
What can patients expect after surgery?
During surgery, thin splints may be placed inside your nose and a splint or bandage placed on the outside to support and protect the new structures during initial healing.
You may also experience minor bleeding, swelling and bruising on the nose and under the eyes, along with an achy feeling and light headache for the first few days. This is normal. These symptoms will gradually disappear over the first week.
You may take Tylenol and over-the-counter pain medications to relieve any pain and discomfort.
Swelling may come and go and worsen in the morning initially with continued improvement during the first year following your rhinoplasty surgery.
You will be given specific instructions that may include:
• How to care for the surgical site
• Specific concerns to look for at the surgical site or in your general health
• When to follow up with your facial plastic surgeon.
How long do results last?
Surgical rhinoplasty results are permanent, as long as you follow all aftercare instructions and avoid an injury that could alter the appearance of your nose.
Will you have scars from rhinoplasty surgery?
Incisions are usually placed within the nasal passages so that they are not visible after surgery. If an external incision is needed, the incision is made as inconspicuously as possible. During your consultation, your surgeon will explain in detail where sutures will be placed.
When can you resume exercising after rhinoplasty surgery?
You may resume light exercise within 3 weeks after surgery, and more strenuous exercise over the next 3 weeks. You should avoid any activities that could cause nasal trauma for up to 6 weeks.
When can you return to work after rhinoplasty surgery?
Typically, patients can return to work within a week after surgery.
When will the stitches be removed?
Stitches are normally removed within 1 week after surgery.
What kind of anesthesia is used for rhinoplasty?
General anesthesia is used for rhinoplasty surgery.
How long does rhinoplasty surgery take?
The length of time for rhinoplasty surgery is different for every patient due to the extent of each individual surgery. Your surgeon will discuss this more in-depth with you during your consultation.
Is rhinoplasty performed in a hospital setting?
Rhinoplasty may be performed in an accredited office-based surgical facility, a licensed ambulatory surgical center, or a hospital.
Dr Pero took my rib cartilage and worked a miracle to rebuild my nose after many sinus surgeries for the last 10 years. My nose is now completely functional after years of not being able to breathe and it’s looking awesome. I’m so happy with the results and highly recommend Dr Pero!
Dr. Pero is a great surgeon who listens to ALL of your concerns and will treat you as if you’d already booked your surgery with him on your first consultation. Good attention to detail and very kind. My functional rhinoplasty went amazingly and I love my new nose.
Dr. Pero is wonderful! So personable. I will absolutely be going back for future needs! He is committed to preserving both form/function while addressing the individual cosmetic concerns of the patient. Highly recommend!!!
For New Year's Eve week, we will close the office from December 31st at noon to January 1st.
We will be open during normal business hours on Thursday, January 2nd.
Happy New Year!
