The nose is one of the most defining
structures of the face. If it has a nice shape and is of
proper proportions, it brings into focus and compliments the
remainder of the face. If it has an undesirable shape, is
too long or too short, then it is difficult to get past the
distractions of the nose to other facial features. Reshaping
the nose, rhinoplasty, is one of the most common cosmetic
surgeries performed. The American Society of Aesthetic
Plastic Surgery reports that approximately 135,795
rhinoplasties were performed in the year 2000. One of Dr.
Hobar’s specialties is rhinoplasty, and he is a member of
the Rhinoplasty Society, Inc. He recently presented his
techniques of adjusting nasal length to other plastic
surgeons at the annual meeting of the Rhinoplasty Society in
New York City.
Dr. Hobar has been
instrumental in showing that the ideal nasal size depends on
the particular features of an individuals face. He strives
to avoid the operated look in performing rhinoplasty. "Each
face is individualized and each nose should optimally match
that face", explains Dr. Hobar. "I want a person to look at
my patients nose, and say ‘what a beautiful nose’, but never
be able to tell it was created that way surgically."
What age is acceptable for
rhinoplasty? Any age is a good age for rhinoplasty, as long
as the nose has finished most of its growth. This is usually
15 to 16 years of age in females and 16 to 17 years of age
in males. While rhinoplasty is somewhat common in teenagers,
most are performed in adults. Rhinoplasty can be performed
as an isolated procedure or in conjunction with other
cosmetic procedures.
Rhinoplasty is performed in approximately 2 hours
at our surgical facility, the Dallas Day Surgery Center. This procedure is largely dependent on reshaping the
cartilage and bone under the nose. Breathing
difficulties from a deviated septum can sometimes be addressed during
surgery. Postoperatively, a
splint is placed on the bridge of the nose and typically comes off in 7
days. Packing is not used on
the inside of the nose; sometimes a hollow soft splint is used if septal
work is done. Patients are
encouraged to resume activity as quickly as possible.
Walking the same day, everyday chores in a couple of days, and full
activity in about 7-10 days.
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