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What is Septoplasty and When Should It Be Considered?

, , rhinoplasty

Septoplasty is one of the most commonly performed ear, nose, and throat procedures performed globally and for a good reason. It is often performed for aesthetic reasons, but it has many other functions. It can be used to treat a wide range of conditions that affect the nose. While it’s commonly referred to as a rhinoplasty, patients must understand that septoplasty and rhinoplasty are two completely separate procedures.

What is Septoplasty?

Septoplasty is a surgical procedure performed to help correct problems in the nasal septum. The nasal septum is the structure located in the nose that separates the nose into two separate chambers.

Is a Septoplasty the Same as a Rhinoplasty?

No, septoplasty and rhinoplasty are two separate procedures. They are similar in that they both address structural problems with the nose, both for medical and cosmetic purposes. They can also be done simultaneously to help further improve a patient’s physical and medical concerns.

Common Reasons for a Septoplasty

The most common reasons for septoplasty surgery are to correct breathing problems. Many people have septum deformities that are causing them to experience breathing difficulties, such as a deviated septum. This is especially true for patients who have been diagnosed with sleep apnea. Breathing problems can make it difficult to sleep at night, leading to a host of additional issues.

What’s important to understand is that just because you may have a slightly deviated septum doesn’t mean that septoplasty is necessary. Most people do not have a perfectly straight septum as it can tend to bend or lean to either side during the growing process. In many cases, these patients have little to no issue with their breathing – so a septoplasty isn’t deemed necessary.

However, if you have severe breathing issues that are causing you discomfort and impacting your quality of life, a septoplasty may be a good option.

What Does a Septoplasty Entail?

A septoplasty is a procedure that is considered an outpatient surgery, which means that you will be able to return home on the same day as your procedure. Most patients can go home within two or three hours upon waking up from surgery.

The surgery can last anywhere between 60 and 90 minutes and is done under general anesthesia.

Once you are asleep and prepped, the surgeon will make an incision within the nose to separate the soft tissue from the cartilage and bone. From there, they will begin to cut/trim and straighten the bent cartilage bone and remove any excess to even the nostrils breathing space. Once the shaping is complete, the surgeon will stitch the soft tissue back together and insert cotton packing into your nose to help avoid any nosebleeds.

Once the surgery is complete, the team will allow you to rest and recuperate for a while before waking you up and checking on your condition. You will likely be able to get up and walk around a bit but be encouraged to stay in bed and rest to avoid any complications. If all goes well, you will be able to return to work and normal activities within a few days.

Are There Risks?

Like any surgery, septoplasty carries some risks. However, the risks are generally considered to be minimal. The main risks associated with septoplasty include infection, bleeding, and nasal scarring.

Other potential risks may include an allergic reaction to the anesthesia or any other medication and changes in skin sensation.

Think You May Be a Candidate for a Septoplasty? Dr. Binder Can Help!

If you are experiencing breathing difficulties due to a deviated septum, you may want to consider a septoplasty. Dr. Binder can help you determine if a septoplasty is right for you. He will evaluate your condition and determine if septoplasty is an appropriate course of action. He can also help you understand the risks and benefits of septoplasty to make an informed decision regarding this surgery.

If you think you may be an ideal candidate for a septoplasty, then contact us today to set up a consultation!

revision rhinoplasty

Everything You Need to Know About Revision Rhinoplasty

rhinoplasty

When you are unhappy with the shape or size of your nose, then your dissatisfaction is as clear as… well, the nose on your face. Your perception may lead to insecurities and you might even avoid social situations as a result.

The best way to alter your profile is with a rhinoplasty (nose job) procedure from a board-certified professional. This surgical approach contours the external lines and dimensions of the nose without compromising the vital structures of the nostrils within.

But not every surgery is a one-size-fits-all affair. Perhaps you have undergone rhinoplasty surgery already, but the outcome left you less than pleased. This is why pencils have erasers. Revision rhinoplasty is the art of correcting a nose job that did not provide the patient’s desired results. A skilled surgeon can improve your look and either build upon the limited success of your past procedure or counteract its failures.

And isn’t that what cosmetic enhancement is all about: improvement?

KNOW YOUR NOSE (AND YOUR DOCTOR)

We live in an age of rapid change. The Internet floods your consciousness with possibilities and information by the nanosecond. But we are often so focused on the deluge of what we can do that we forget what we should do.

Doctors are competing for attention in an already crowded field. They may boast lower rates and flashy new techniques, but there is no substitute for experience. If a low-cost nose job looks too good to be true, it probably is. Be sure to research your surgeon or else you will be back for a revision procedure as quick as you can wiggle your nose.

WHY IS RHINOPLASTY SO TRICKY?

Nose jobs must address two major factors in order to be considered a success: they must improve both functionality and aesthetics. Sure, you want your nose to look great, but you also need it to work perfectly. You breathe through it every second of every day. The nose demands respect! This is why rhinoplasty is so much more exacting than other cosmetic surgeries. A chin implant, for example, can reshape your face, but it doesn’t do much on a daily basis (other than keeping up appearances).

Nose jobs are under intense scrutiny, and the main critic should be you.

Only you can determine the final outcome of your rhinoplasty. It is not up to your friends, your romantic partner, or even your medical team (no matter how skilled they may be) to say what is right for your face. You are in control and you demand satisfaction.

THE STATE OF RHINOPLASTY REVISION, CIRCA 2020

According to 2020 estimates on the Real Self medical influencer site, between 5% and 15% of board-certified plastic surgeons have had to revise nose job procedures on their patients. 

And that’s the good news.

The bad news is that the national average is much higher when you take into account unlicensed and inexperienced doctors. One major reason they give for these numbers: patients’ impatience. Everyone wants a quick fix, and they may rush into revision surgery before the contours of the original procedure have even set.

Keep calm. Breathe. And read on…

THE PITFALLS OF LIQUID RHINOPLASTY

One of the most immediate ways to reshape your nose is through the non-surgical liquid rhinoplasty procedure. This is a method by which dermal fillers plump and mold the small imperfections on your nose by adding volume just below the skin. 

Liquid rhinoplasty is temporary, dissipating within months of injection. It may be a way to preview how a rhinoplasty procedure can transform your nose, but the treatment has a few downsides:

  • Dermal fillers can only add size to your nose; they can’t reduce its mass.
  • To be effective, the structure of your cartilage must be to your liking. Superficial injections will have no effect on the hard ridge on the bridge of your nose in any meaningful way.
  • The benefits of dermal fillers may be fleeting, especially in an area as finite as your nose. Doctors have much more success filling wrinkles and lines around your nose, but these pliable solutions are not designed to add permanent volume to the nose itself.

SKIP THE FADS, STICK WITH THE EXPERT

Expedience is great for online shopping, but your health and wellness deserve consideration. Do not rush forward with any medical procedure, especially one that will stare you in the face for the rest of your life.

Rhinoplasty is a delicate discipline. Every nanometer of skin, every minuscule curve, and every gradation along the nose add up to excellence. You want a surgeon who will study your medical past, listen to your future goals, and be present for every crucial detail of the consultation process and beyond.

In short: you need Dr. Binder.

He is more than just a leader in his field; he is a pioneer of cosmetic innovation. Dr. Binder has revolutionized the use of Botox, for example, elevating it from its role in beautification to apply it to migraine alleviation.

Dr. Binder thinks past the limitations of other surgeons and ponders the full range of possibilities presented by modern science. If you had a past nose job that fell short of expectations, you want to consult with someone who will aspire to perfection. “Good enough” is never enough for Dr. Binder, and you deserve to reap the rewards of his decades in medicine.

Whether you are seeking a do-over on the rhinoplasty results you received elsewhere or you are new to cosmetic enhancement, Dr. Binder is the ultimate resource for you. Contact his Beverly Hills office and add some know-how to your nose now!

Rhinoplasty: Breathing vs. Beauty

rhinoplasty

Whenever life gets a little too hard, we always tell ourselves the same thing: just breathe. It may sound like a simplistic statement, but it is profound in its importance. By regulating our breathing, we focus on our core needs. This is the central idea behind meditation. Breathing exercises can reduce anxiety, promote proper blood flow, and oxygenate our brain.

Once we are properly inhaling and exhaling, we can shift our perspective to broader, more complex pursuits, like aesthetics. 

Rhinoplasty (nose jobs) applies to all of the above endeavors. If you are having difficulty drawing air through your nostrils, it presents an urgent problem. Alternately, if you are dissatisfied with the look of your nose, it can create a deeper, more insidious dilemma. 

Whichever end of the spectrum encapsulates your situation, a skilled surgeon can realize your medical goals. Success in rhinoplasty yields happiness in your daily life. When you breathe clearly, you think clearly. Similarly, when you look good, you feel good.

Perhaps these reasons explain why nose jobs are consistently so popular.

Rhinoplasty: By the Numbers

Because of its applicability to both form and function, rhinoplasty is the third most common cosmetic procedure in the United States. Breast augmentations and liposuction are slightly more popular, but nose jobs still account for over 218,000 appointments per year in America.

The prevalence of rhinoplasty is a double-edged sword. Its widespread acceptance helps reduce stigma towards reconstructive surgery and raise education and awareness for medical practitioners for generations to come. However, when a procedure becomes more popular, it gets less scrutiny. Every invasive medical action requires the utmost care and precision. Be sure that you are asking the right questions and selecting the best surgeon possible before embarking upon your cosmetic journey.

The Functionality of Nose Jobs

The thin line of cartilage that runs down the center of your nose is called a septum. When it is “deviated”, that means the septum is misaligned and no longer promotes the optimal passage of air. A septum can deviate at birth or it could become damaged over time. If you have ever broken your nose or are recovering from substance abuse issues, your septum was invariably affected.

Rhinoplasty can correct a skewed septum, but it is also ideal for another breathing impediment: enlarged turbinates. There are shell-shaped structures in the human nose called turbinates that consist of blood vessels, bone, and fine tissue. These structures are very delicate, susceptible to subtle hormonal changes and allergic reactions. When turbinates become swollen and irritated, they can block the intake of oxygen through the nose. A successful rhinoplasty procedure removes tissue from the turbinates to allow air to pass through them once more.

Cosmetic Improvement, Life Improvement

Your nose is often the most prominent feature on your face. When you meet a new person, you may look into his or her eyes, but you subconsciously notice their nose. What first impression does your nose make?

Most people complain that their nose is “out of whack” or asymmetrical. If it curves to the left or right, it directs a viewer’s eye away from the center of your face. This may feel off-putting, adding to your insecurities and general dissatisfaction with your overall look. Our team can adjust the alignment of your nose, taking great care to rebuild your nose from inside out. If necessary, we will re-set the bones to assure a proper support structure. From there, we delicately straighten the septum and make sure the entire structure is harmonious and healthy. This will satisfy your basic yearning to breathe free while also creating a foundation of symmetry and balance. 

Another common complaint is that the nose is too bulbous or pointy. We can address this issue by simply removing excess cartilage from the “problem area” and smoothing out the remaining material to your specifications.

Speaking of your specifications, communication is the key to any successful surgery. Tell us about your hopes, fears, and long-term cosmetic goals during your initial visit to our welcoming facility. We can alleviate your worries, show you around, and discuss your needs in a practical, caring manner.

Satisfying All of Your Nose Needs

As mentioned earlier, almost a quarter of a million Americans get nose jobs every year. For such a widespread practice, you would think there would be a great number of dissatisfied customers. The truth, however, is quite the opposite.

According to an extensive survey of over 2,300 rhinoplasty patients, 83.6% of them were satisfied with the results of their procedure. The most common cause for complaint was a lingering bump on the dorsal portion of the nose. It’s also important to realize that being interviewed shortly after surgery may result in having residual swelling, which happens after any invasive procedure. 

Dr. Binder prides himself on delivering real results and realistic expectations. When you contact his office, you should express exactly what you want, but this is just the first phase of our communication. If you expect a radically different nose than your facial structure can support, then we will find a compromise that better suits your needs.

We would never promise results that are unrealistic for your continued health. Your happiness is important to us, and we will discuss your case frankly, caringly, and comprehensively.

Whether you need help breathing or hope to enhance your look, Dr. Binder can guide you on your journey to cosmetic transcendence. After all, you’ve only got one nose; let’s show it some love, shall we?

Western vs. Eastern Beauty Standards in Plastic Surgery

Lifestyle, rhinoplasty, Facial Liposuction, Face Lifts

Our world gets smaller every day. Trends spread across cyberspace at the speed of information, and there are no boundaries when it comes to style, beauty, and appreciation.

And yet we still have inherent cultural differences.

Some aesthetics have been ingrained in our respective societies for centuries on end, and that won’t change with the simple click of an Instagram post. We can, however, break down the barriers of our cosmetic discrepancies by illuminating how we differ and how we’re all striving to be the best we can be.

Western norms and Eastern ideals may have varied appearances at first glance, but when you look closer, you can see how each standard is intrinsically beautiful. We want to illuminate a few of the cardinal features of each approach to illustrate how you can achieve your desired look, no matter which side of the Pacific you find yourself inhabiting.

Nose

While aesthetics don’t always translate from continent to continent, confidence is recognized around the world. For millennia, the western world has opined about the “Roman” nose: a strong, dominant feature conveying strength and assuredness.

However, Asian noses tend to take on a different arc, thanks in part to societal expectations and traditions. According to one reporter’s account, perceptions of how a person is accepted and how he or she will fare in life are traced directly back to the shape of the nose. While her anecdotal evidence is not intended to apply to an entire culture or people, it is indicative of how the Asian plastic surgery industry admires different qualities in facial construction.

For example, the button nose is often desired over a more protruding version. In fact, some Korean clinics actually advertise a sharp, doll-shaped rhinoplasty procedure for patients seeking that cute, compact look.

Forehead

According to recent statistics, rhytidectomy (facelift) operations are on the rise in Asian nations. These procedures help correct nasolabial wrinkling as the forehead is lifted without creating a dramatic protrusion in the jawline (see below – petite facial features are all the rage in many Eastern circles).

While cosmetic surgery in the Americas often focuses on removing excess baggage from under the eyes, doctors in Asia receive different requests. Residents of South Korea sometimes complain about the preponderance of a “monolid” – meaning that they want their faces to have two distinct eyelids to give their faces more definition.

Perhaps this is what contributes to the fact that SK ranks #1 in the number of plastic surgery procedures worldwide. The peninsula recorded almost a million procedures in 2014, which equates to 20 operations per 1,000 citizens that year alone.

Jawline

As the saying goes, beauty is in the eye of the beholder… but it’s even more complicated than that. When we extrapolate outward, we realize that identity is affected by our immediate family, our local community, and our national profile writ large. What is considered “beautiful” will range depending on where you live and in what era you find yourself.

Case in point: South Korea. Social norms have determined that having a small head is more pleasing to the eye than a large one. To appear more diminutive, some Koreans are having their jawlines slimmed into a V-shape. This look can be achieved by realigning and resetting the jawbone completely or simply shaving it down surgically.

Many Asian nations have also pioneered the use of Botox to soften the jawline and reduce its severity. This is another method by which cosmetic surgery helps contour the human face and draw the viewer’s eyes to the areas you want them to notice first.

But you don’t need to travel thousands of miles to get the Seoul jaw treatment; overseas treks are expensive, and surgery requires the stability and comfort of home. In short, it’s best to research globally, but act locally. That’s why Doctor Binder prides himself on being proficient in various worldly disciplines while providing the safety and convenience of a clinic right here in Beverly Hills.

Cheeks

Speaking of the LA aesthetic, Southern California beauty ideals often emphasize high cheekbones and angular faces. However, our Asian cosmetician counterparts downplay such ostentatious displays and bulky facial presentations. Rather than going for that Angelina Jolie look, many Easterners opt for a more subdued, subtle silhouette.

Cheekbone surgery allows patients the flexibility of reducing the wideness of their face by diminishing the size and contours of their aforementioned cheekbones. A series of incisions, administered in the mouth, give surgeons access to the skeletal system without creating unsightly scarring on the exterior of the face.

Juxtapose this approach with a more Western-style cheek augmentation. Rather than shaving down the apples of the face, many American patients prefer to plump them up. This look can be achieved with an implant that typically only takes about an hour to properly situate. Combined with facial sculpting procedures, a cheek augmentation helps your profile stand out proudly and firmly.

The generalizations laid out above are merely meant to take the temperature of different cultures as a whole. While the trend in Asian countries may be a tighter, more delicate face, that doesn’t apply to all clients by any means. And this aesthetic may be just what a patient in the United States is hoping to achieve, regardless of ethnic background or national identity.

No matter what your preference may be, Doctor Binder has the expertise to bring your exotic/modest/worldly/understated cosmetic goals to reality. So, check your passport and check us out!

Celebrity Nose Jobs: Five Superstar Success Stories

Lifestyle, Motivation, rhinoplasty

While the eyes may be the windows to the soul, the nose is often the first feature we notice. It is the protrusion that demands the most attention, and it characterizes many celebrities with its signature structure. Owen Wilson, Barbara Streisand, Jimmy Durante, Karl Malden – their noses help define their personas, and their sense of celebrity is indelibly tied to this central facial feature.

So, which Hollywood megastars have had the most successful nose jobs? And what exactly makes these surgeries work? Let’s take a closer look at the best rhinoplasty procedures in Tinseltown…

Jennifer Aniston

Celebrities are people too. They laugh, they love (other A-listers), and they breathe. When this last process becomes belabored, it might indicate the presence of a deviated septum. If your nasal passageways become increasingly impeded, it could lead to nosebleeds, sleep apnea, and difficulty performing your lines as an actor.

This was the predicament that befell the biggest sitcom star of the 1990’s: Jennifer Aniston.

Years before she became one of our best Friends, Aniston opted for rhinoplasty to correct her deviated septum. “Best thing I ever did,” commented the super celeb. “I slept like a baby for the first time in years.”

If you’re experiencing any of the aforementioned symptoms of a deviated septum, you may want to explore the same options that Ms. Aniston considered. If you need help, to borrow a phrase from her hit show’s theme song: We’ll be here for you.

Lisa Kudrow

Aniston wasn’t the only Friends cast member to benefit from a cosmetic procedure. As a teen, Lisa Kudrow underwent a facial reconstruction to reshape her nose… but the surgery also reconfigured her self-esteem.

“That was life altering,” recalls Kudrow. “I went from, in my mind, hideous, to not hideous. I did it the summer before going to a new high school. So there were plenty of people who wouldn’t know how hideous I looked before. That was a good, good, good change.”

With the bold declaration, the girl who would grow up to be Phoebe Buffay pinpoints one of the main reasons why people seek rhinoplasty: aesthetic satisfaction. When you look good, you often feel good, and vice versa. Kudrow went on to become an Emmy winner, not to mention winning over the hearts of fans by the millions. Looks like the boost in confidence really paid off!

Jillian Michaels

Before moving forward with any surgical procedure, be it cosmetic or otherwise, you must weigh the pros and cons against the bigger picture of your health. And nobody knows health like fitness guru Jillian Michaels. As the tenacious trainer on The Biggest Loser, she has built her career on helping others attain their best self, so it might be surprising to know that Michaels was bullied as a child for her appearance.

“Not to say you should let your physicality define you, but there are some things that can make people feel really insecure,” assesses Michaels. “I had my nose done when I was 16 years old, and I’ll be honest, it did change my life.” With a renewed burst of confidence, Michaels surmises, “If there is something you want to fix that allows you to feel a little bit more confident, I support it.”

Ashlee Simpson

Empowerment is a recurrent motif in these celebrity success stories. The women featured in this article became famous asserting their own individual modes of expression. Sometimes that’s exceedingly difficult to achieve when you’re constantly compared to a famous sibling, as is the case with Ashlee Simpson.

“Of course I look like her. She’s my sister,” quips Ashlee of her sis Jessica Simpson. “It’s like, God, please! We think it’s quite funny.” But Ashlee got serious when it came to crafting her own unique look. “I believe if somebody chooses to do plastic surgery, it’s for yourself, not for anyone else.” And the younger sibling has no regrets about her choices, concluding, “I loved how I looked. I’m not an insecure person, nor was I before.”

Harnessing this sense of self is essential to owning your look. Don’t compare yourself to family or famous people; know who you are inside before defining your outward appearance. Cosmetic surgery is merely an extension of self-expression.

Tyra Banks 

The word “supermodel” is almost synonymous with Banks, entertainer and entrepreneur extraordinaire. But she wasn’t born looking like the world-famous celebrity we see today. “Natural beauty is unfair,” Banks writes in her book Perfect Is Boring. “I get really uncomfortable when women who are these natural beauties judge anybody who does anything to themselves.” In addition to ruling the runway, Banks is also the queen of keepin’ it real. “I had bones in my nose that were growing and itching… I could breathe fine, but I added cosmetic surgery. I admit it!” Taking the reins of her own image, Tyra concludes, “I feel I have a responsibility to tell the truth.”

And the truth is a concept we convey every day with our facial expressions. When we smile at a loved one or make eye contact at work, we’re putting our best face forward. But does that face reflect your true self? It’s an important consideration to make before deciding on your desired cosmetic surgery procedure. Just look to the aforementioned stars for guidance!
But stardom is a construct far from most people’s everyday reality. It’s fun to see our favorite performers on stage or screen, but what matters more is how we perceive the face staring back at us in the mirror. You play the hero in the role of your lifetime. Look the part, look your best, and look no further than Doctor Binder. He can shine a spotlight on the inner celebrity hiding right under your nose!

Bigger Than a Nose Job: The Psychological Benefits of Cosmetic Surgery

Lifestyle, rhinoplasty

Your appearance is a window to the world. How you express yourself, your choice of gestures, the personal style you cultivate; these are all hallmarks of who you are and how you want to be perceived by society.

Appearance also offers a snapshot of your psychological well being.

If you walk around with a permanent scowl on your face, you’re telling passersby to stay away. Conversely, smiling invites others to approach you. In these examples, mood is a self-fulfilling state of being. By looking upbeat, you might actually achieve greater happiness.

But instead of just pretending to be chipper, you could get a more permanent boost from cosmetic enhancement.

Facing Your Flaws

No matter how beautiful you may be, there’s always that one physical feature that you wish you could change. Whether it’s the curve of your nose, the shape of your midsection, or the height of your cheekbones, you probably have one nagging complaint about your body or face that bothers you incessantly.

Well, you’re not alone. Statistically speaking, 43% of men and 56% of women surveyed have registered disappointment with their outward appearance. This dissatisfaction can manifest itself as a mere annoyance, or it could affect one’s state of mind. If you’re constantly obsessing about your perceived flaw then it occupies your focus. In turn, your mood is negatively impacted, which then bolsters your negative self-image. It’s a downward cycle, but luckily you can break out of it if you so choose.

Conquering Your Image Issues

Esteem dominates our daily behavior. Confidence helps motivate us in the workplace and in social situations, so when our self-worth dips, so does our productivity and general demeanor. By succumbing to body issues, one might suffer a myriad of psychological setbacks. These include:

  • The propensity to be easily distracted
  • Lack of energy or determination
  • Insomnia
  • Depression

This last symptom of body dysmorphia can be the most troubling, so let’s take a closer look at the link between appearance and mood disorders.

Overcoming Depression

We look at ourselves in the mirror every single day. If we don’t like what we see staring back at us, it has a definite effect on what we project to the world. That mirror session is essentially a rehearsal for how we interact with others. If we perceive our appearance to be less than optimal, then depression could creep in.

One recent study of over 540 people showed that cosmetics are indelibly linked to such forces as social anxiety, agoraphobia, self-perception, goal attainment, self-realization, quality of life and, of course, our sense of attractiveness.

If we don’t think of ourselves as desirable, it sends a message to the brain that we don’t deserve a partner who sees us as desirable. By lowering our social standards in this way, we relegate ourselves to a “lesser than” category. This triggers feelings of doubt, which permeates into our behavioral patterns. No, I don’t belong to that club or Maybe I’ll just avoid that party because I won’t fit in. Perceived alienation becomes actual seclusion.

This is the psychological landscape where depression flourishes. But don’t despair; there’s hope on the horizon.

Positive Results

While modern medicine tends to answer psychological issues with pharmaceutical prescriptions, there may be another solution available: cosmetic surgery. In a groundbreaking survey of 362 patients who underwent cosmetic procedures, 61 of them had been taking antidepressants before the date of their surgery. After their successful emergence from these respective procedures, that number fell to 42.

In other words, the successful exposure to cosmetic surgery decreased the need for antidepressant medications in a staggering 31 percent of patients who had been taking the aforementioned prescriptions.

That is a statistic worth heralding as an undeniable success.

Do What’s Right for You

A person’s psychology is as complex and unique as his or her fingerprint. There’s no guarantee that changing your appearance will alter your mood, but the link between the two is compelling, to say the least.

Before embarking on any surgery, be it cosmetic or otherwise, you should consult with your support system (loved ones, friends, relatives, etc.). Make sure it’s the right decision for you; consider what is most beneficial to your physical health as well as your mental wellbeing.

Once that phase of your deliberation is complete, it’s time to consult Doctor Binder to assess your options, formulate a plan, and move forward. A happier new you awaits, and we’re eager to help guide you on your journey to self-actualization.

7 Signs of a Successful Rhinoplasty

, , , , rhinoplasty

A Rhinoplasty operation, also called a “nose job” in common parlance, is a surgical procedure that reshapes or resizes the nose for health or cosmetic reasons.

 

The aim of the cosmetic surgeon who performs the operation is always to create the most attractive and natural result that complements the rest of a patient’s facial features.

 

Sometimes rhinoplasty is undertaken to help improve a patient’s breathing by minimizing nasal airway obstruction. In all cases, achieving the best possible functional and aesthetic result is the hallmark of a successful rhinoplasty.

 

Rhinoplasty surgery can create dramatic improvements to:

 

-Nose size and proportion in relation to facial harmony

-Nose width at the bridge, or a profile with visible bumps on the bridge

-The size, shape, and position of the nostrils

-A nasal tip that is bulbous, drooping, upturned, or hooked

-Nasal asymmetry

 

Both the open and closed rhinoplasty techniques are performed by making incisions (either across the columella or hidden inside the nose) to allow the surgeon to gently raise the skin that covers the nasal bones and cartilage, allowing access to alter the structure of the nose.

 

The skin is then carefully draped back over the newly enhanced nasal framework to give the nose its new and improved appearance.

 

Here are the 7 signs of a successful rhinoplasty:

 

  1. Symmetry

 

For centuries facial symmetry “has been linked to the perception of facial beauty, resistance to disease, and quality genetics.”

 

The goal of achieving greater facial symmetry is a very common one for patients seeking facial cosmetic surgery, particularly so for those seeking rhinoplasty.

 

Achieving greater bilateral symmetry of the face, or maintaining the symmetry of an already symmetrical nose while correcting another aspect of its shape or size is essential in rhinoplasty.

 

  1. Breathing

 

When it comes to the nose, form and function are intimately intertwined.

 

A1999 article from WebMD’s archives mentions how a few of the 130,000 patients to undergo rhinoplasty annually, at the time, would experience difficulty with nasal breathing after their procedure.

 

The reason for this was that a cosmetic surgeon at the time would occasionally remove too much cartilage during a rhinoplasty, causing the sides of the nose to collapse during inhalation.

 

Modern rhinoplasties avoid this complication through more delicate sculpting and an emphasis on creating a stronger overall nasal structure.

 

A successful rhinoplasty will improve or maintain a patient’s ability to breathe easily and comfortably.

 

  1. No Scars

 

A successful rhinoplasty should improve, not worsen, the appearance of the nose. In facial cosmetic surgery the results are intended to be aesthetic, so any visible scarring is considered an unsuccessful result.

 

An inexperienced or indelicate plastic surgeon is more likely to improve the nose’s shape without the concern of conspicuous, visible scarring.

 

The first and most important step for preventing unwanted complications and poor results like visible nasal scarring is choosing a plastic surgeon who is board certified, highly recommended, and very experienced in the rhinoplasty procedure specifically.

 

  1. No Need for Revision

 

Many times after a rhinoplasty the nose looks great, but after some operations many patients report having a collapsed nose, pinched nose, or a “skeletonized” – artificial-looking nose.

 

Unfortunately this problem is not rare. In fact it is estimated that between 5 – 15% of patients who undergo “nose jobs” will need revision rhinoplasty surgery. Some patients require only minor adjustments, while others need more significant revisions.

 

A successful rhinoplasty is one that’s done right the first time by an expert cosmetic facial surgeon with years or decades of experience, performing rhinoplasties that consistently achieve the very best results.

 

  1. Natural Look

 

The newly enhanced nose must look natural after a successful rhinoplasty. Unnatural results are obvious and unaesthetic.

 

The profile cannot be scooped too much. The nose should not be too upturned. The tip cannot appear pinched. The nostrils must not look too large. The front of the nose should not look pencil-like, something that occurs when the tip has been narrowed as much as the bridge.

 

An unnaturally enhanced nose calls attention to itself. A well-done nose looks great and inconspicuously complements the rest of the face.

 

  1. Facial Harmony

 

The eyes may be the windows to the soul, but nothing interferes with facial harmony like a disproportionate nose.

 

Flaws in such a prominent facial feature draw unwanted attention and can really hurt self confidence. Fortunately, just a slight alteration can balance the face and restore confidence.

 

A successful rhinoplasty surgeon comprehends the necessity of understanding both the nose and the patient’s overall facial structure in achieving natural-looking results and reducing the chance of needing revision rhinoplasty at a later date.

 

  1. Patient Satisfaction

 

What should an attractive nose look like? There really is not a single answer to this question.

 

Jeffrey R. Marcus, MD, a pediatric plastic surgeon at Duke University Health Center says it well:

 

“In the past, many plastic surgeons adhered to personal or popularized aesthetic ideals and allowed them to guide rhinoplasty procedures somewhat universally on their patients. Sometimes, this led to common appearance features among post-surgical patients. This is a trend that has fortunately been left to rest.”

 

A qualified, expert cosmetic surgeon will work with their rhinoplasty patient to create an individualized goal, plan, and result to achieve the unique goals of each individual patient.

 

 

About Dr. William J. Binder

 

Dr. William J. Binder is a facial plastic surgery specialist with over three decades of experience with facial plastic surgery.

 

For almost three decades, his individualized approach to rhinoplasty has led him to pioneer the new “structure” techniques of rhinoplasty, yielding more consistent results and rendering the pre-existing look of an unnatural nose-job obsolete.

 

If you want your rhinoplasty performed by one of the world’s leading facial plastic surgeons, contact Dr. Binder’s office today to schedule an initial consultation.

Common Nose Shapes a Rhinoplasty Can Address

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Many people who are unhappy with their nose shape, whether this is due to damage to the nose, a previously botched rhinoplasty, or the nose’s natural shape, would like to have rhinoplasty surgery performed to correct their nose, but think that surgery won’t be able to help them. The reality is that rhinoplasty is an individualized procedure that can help with all kinds of displeasing nose shapes. Let’s examine some common nose shapes and the common nose surgeries that can alter them.

Oversized Nose

This is cause for one of the most common nose surgeries. Some people are self-conscious because they feel that their nose is overly large or long in comparison to the rest of their face. This can make the face seem out of proportion and draw attention away from other, favorite or particularly attractive facial features, such as beautiful eyes or a warm and pleasant smile. Because decreasing the size of the nose requires modifications to the entire nose to achieve pleasant and attractive results, this kind of rhinoplasty can be rather complex. However, the final results are worth it, as they give the face a beautiful, proportional appearance that shows of all your best features, rather than just your nose.

Bulbous Tip

A bulbous nasal tip is another common nose shape, especially among men, that many people have corrected with nose reshaping surgery. A bulbous tip may droop, protrude, or simply appear out of proportion with the rest of the nose, as well as the face overall. A bulbous nasal tip can be corrected with the use of broad nasal tip, or tip refinement, rhinoplasty. Because the nasal tip is out of proportion with the rest of the nose, broad nasal tip surgery generally only requires modification to the tip of the nose, causing healing to be quicker and easier with this type of surgery than with other, more comprehensive rhinoplasties.

Bumped Nose

People can have bumps on their nose naturally, but they are also commonly the result of previous trauma and damage to the nose. Bumps can vary in size from barely noticeable to very eye catching. Some people want to keep traces of their bump to retain character or ethnic or family features, while others want their bump reduced entirely, leaving a smooth and straight nose. Either way, you can achieve beautiful results, but it’s important to communicate your preferences to your surgeon to make sure that you get the results you want.

Remember that it can take up to a year for swelling to completely reduce after a rhinoplasty procedure, so don’t be immediately concerned if your nose still appears to have a bump or a larger bump than you’d like, as this may simply be lingering swelling. If you’re still not happy with your results after a year then contact your plastic surgeon.

Crooked or Asymmetrical Nose

As with a bumped nose, a crooked or asymmetrical nose may be due to genetics or to damage experienced by the nose. This generally requires a comprehensive rhinoplasty to give the entire nose a straight and proportional appearance. In some cases, a nose that becomes crooked after trauma may also have internal problems as well, requiring a medical rhinoplasty, or septoplasty, but doing so can help improve your breathing and save you medical problems later that could result if left untreated. Performing septoplasty at the same time as cosmetic nasal surgery can also help you save money, as insurance will often pay for parts of the procedure that are medically necessary.

Pointy Nose

An overly pointy nose is generally due to excess or projecting cartilage at the tip of the nose. Fortunately, this is usually very easily resolved by reducing the amount of cartilage at the nasal tip, and perhaps some reshaping to help create a softer, more rounded appearance. In turn, reshaping the nose this way can give the face overall a softer and more balanced appearance.

Like with nasal surgery for a bulbous nasal tip, resolving too pointy of a nose typically requires rhinoplasty that is less invasive than in many other cases, so healing may be quicker and easier for patients who receive this type of surgery. However, in some cases your plastic surgeon may suggest modification of the bridge or nostrils as well to ensure that your nose retains symmetry and proper proportions after your surgery.

Wide or Flat Bridge

Some people feel that the bridge of their nose is displeasing, broad or flat. The variety of rhinoplasty most commonly used to correct this type of nose is augmentation rhinoplasty. Augmentation rhinoplasty can correct a wide or flat bridge by narrowing and adding volume to the bridge, perhaps through the use of implants, or by adjusting the size and shape of the tip of the nose to make the nose more proportional and well-shaped as a whole. For more dramatic case, both may be required.

Choose the Right Surgeon for Your Rhinoplasty

Dr. William J. Binder is one of the world’s leading rhinoplasty experts. To learn about the most uncommon and common nose surgeries, contact Dr. Binder’s office today.

How to Choose a Rhinoplasty Surgeon

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Preparing for a rhinoplasty, just like any surgery can be nerve-wracking, but feeling confident that you’ve chosen the right plastic surgeon can help put you at ease. With so many rhinoplasty surgeons out there, however, the options can be overwhelming. That’s why it’s helpful to be able to narrow down the sea of cosmetic surgeons to find the rhinoplasty surgeon that’s right for you. Here is everything you should investigate regarding your plastic surgeon when preparing for a rhinoplasty.

Examine Their Qualifications

Not all plastic surgeons are alike, but there are ways to tell the good from the bad and the best from the good. Look for a plastic surgeon with many years of experience and is certified by at least one plastic surgery board. If they’ve sat on the board or held a leadership position, that’s even better. Try to find a surgeon who teaches other surgeons or has held fellowships in facial plastic surgery and has had their work published in peer-reviewed journals. Choosing a specialist in facial plastic surgery is ideal.

Look at Their Work

A highly skilled and qualified surgeon isn’t enough, however. You also want to make sure that the appearances that the rhinoplasty surgeon is creating are consistent with your aesthetic goals and desires. A plastic surgeon may be excellent at their job, but simply not create the aesthetic you want, so patients should review the end results of rhinoplasties performed by any potential rhinoplasty surgeon. These types of images are usually easily accessible through the surgeon’s website, and more before and after images will typically be shown at a consultation with the surgeon. Use before and after images to determine whether the surgeon has experience with noses like yours and how he or she modifies them.

rhino-success-conceptDon’t Try to Cut Costs

Plastic surgery can be costly, particularly since it is rarely covered by insurance, so it can be tempting to try to go for the cheapest possible option for your surgery, but cosmetic surgery is one of those things where you get what you pay for, and bad results can cost you more in the long term. You only want to have to have rhinoplasty surgery once, but a bad rhinoplasty can lead to not only unattractive results, but also severe medical problems, either of which can lead to the necessity for revision rhinoplasty.

Though money might have been saved on the initial rhinoplasty procedure, the additional cost of a revision rhinoplasty makes the total cost far more than what it would have been to pay for a more expensive and qualified surgeon in the first place.

To avoid bad results and costly problems, always to be sure to look at any potential rhinoplasty surgeon’s reputation, qualifications, and results in addition to the cost. If you have specific goals in mind and find an excellent surgeon in another city, you may even want to pay a little more to travel to ensure that you get the right surgeon to get exactly the results you want. Doing the necessary preparations will only ensure that preparing for a rhinoplasty is a one-time ordeal.

Schedule a Consultation

You wouldn’t hire someone for a job without an interview, so why would you hire a cosmetic surgeon without talking to them first? Once you’ve narrowed down possible cosmetic surgeons, you can schedule a consultation with each one. During this consultation, your potential rhinoplasty surgeon should discuss the cost of the procedure, your general health, possible risks, and whether or not your desires are realistic. If not, you may want to cross that surgeon of the list. Your rhinoplasty surgeon should be informative about what happens before, during, and after your procedure and able to provide clear instructions for your recovery and follow up.

Finally, you should also feel comfortable talking with your surgeon, as you need to be able to easily communicate with each other and you need to feel confident asking any questions you have.

A Leader in Rhinoplasty Surgery

Dr. William J. Binder is one of the world’s leading facial plastic surgery experts. He is based out of Los Angeles, but due to his expertise and decades of experience patients from around the country and even the world come to receive treatment from him. Dr. Binder is extensively published and is board certified by both the American Board of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery and the the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. While his passion is in working with his patients, he also spends much of his time traveling to provide lectures and training to other plastic surgeons. If you have questions about facial reconstruction and want a consultation with the very best, contact Dr. Binder’s office today.

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Top 6 Nose Job Myths

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A rhinoplasty, or what is more commonly known as a “nose job”, is a type of surgery performed on the nose to change or improve its shape and function. It is not only done for aesthetic purposes but also because people get their noses done to correct their breathing problems or disfigurement caused by defects at birth or trauma later in life.

If you are planning on getting a nose job, then it is crucial that you do your research first. This is critical because you need to separate the myths from facts that surround this extremely popular cosmetic procedure. The following are the top six nose job myths.

Myth #1: Any plastic surgeon can perform a nose job

Rhinoplasty is a critical procedure, but a lot of patients think that any plastic surgeon can perform a nose job surgery. The nose is considered one of the most complicated parts of the body because of its intricate anatomy. Thus, a nose job should not be done by just any plastic surgeon. Only board-certified facial plastic surgeons that have performed many rhinoplasty procedures are certified to perform this process.

On the bright side, surveys show that 83.6% of patients were satisfied with their nose job procedure… which means that 16.4% were dissatisfied. Don’t be in that minority. When you look for a plastic surgeon that can perform rhinoplasty on you, make sure that you ask about his or her board certification for facial plastic surgery as well as the number of nose jobs they have performed.

Myth #2: Rhinoplasty is a very simple procedure

Just because the nose is a tiny bump on your face does not mean that the procedure is simple. The main reason why rhinoplasty is a very complicated procedure is that even a millimeter of change done in one area of the nose can lead to a very dramatic change in terms of function, ease of breathing, and overall look of the entire nose.

For instance, reducing the nose bridge requires the plastic surgeon to make small cuts in the interiors bones to balance out the look of the nose. The anatomy of the nose alone makes this procedure very complicated.

Myth #3: It is an expensive procedure

Contrary to popular belief, there are many ways you can save money on this procedure. First, many insurance companies can cover some of the cost of rhinoplasty under special conditions. For instance, patients who have a deviated septum due to trauma can have their insurance companies approve the funding of their rhinoplasty. On the other hand, if the purpose is purely for aesthetics, you can still get financial interventions by inquiring with your doctor. Some doctors provide such financial options for people who want to get rhinoplasty.

Before you embark upon your foray into cosmetic surgery, be aware of the various fees you may incur along the way:

  • The cost of the actual surgery
  • Paying the anesthesiologist (who may or may not be in the same network as your surgeon)
  • Hospital fees (again, inquire about your insurance plan/network before you book your stay)
  • The cost of the medical tests that precede your procedure
  • The price of the pain medication you may need after the surgery
  • Paying for any specialized compression garments your doctor might recommend

Myth #4: You can get any nose that you want

As mentioned earlier, the anatomy of the nose is very complicated and each patient represents a lot of uniqueness. Having said this, you cannot get any nose that you want. Ethical plastic surgeons will always design a new nose for you that will not only look good on your overall appearance but will also improve its function.

If you still insist on getting the nose that you want, then you might end up having breathing problems in the end. So, make sure that you always communicate clearly with your surgeon. That way, he or she can make recommendations to balance your desires and health.

Myth #5: Rhinoplasty is painful

Nose jobs have come a long way since their infamous inception. The first such procedure dates back approximately 2,500 years to ancient India and involved removing a flap of skin from the patient’s cheek to craft a new nose.

The reality is, modern rhinoplasty is not a painful procedure. During the procedure, the patient is placed under general anesthesia. So they will never feel any pain during the entire operation. Once awake, doctors will give them pain medications to reduce the discomfort. Although not entirely painful, there are some discomforts such as swelling around the eyes, bruising, and congestion but they naturally relieve themselves after a week. No cheeks required.

Myth #6: Only women get nose jobs

Although most of the patients who get nose jobs are women, the number of men who are also getting this procedure is on the rise. According to recent statistics, male cosmetic surgery has skyrocketed over 100% over the course of the past generation, meaning it’s not just for women anymore.

Male patients get rhinoplasty to improve the cosmetic and functional performance of their noses. So, if you are a man and you want to get rhinoplasty but you’re hesitating because it is a popular procedure among women, think again!

Rhinoplasty in Los Angeles with Doctor Binder

If you feel like you may be a candidate for rhinoplasty, or you’ve been recommended to have one by another medical professional, contact Doctor Binder to schedule an appointment today. During your consultation, you will be encouraged to discuss your options and ask any questions you may have in greater detail. Feel free to bring up the myths debunked in the article above!

recommended having one by another medical professional, contact Doctor Binder to schedule an appointment and consultation to discuss your options and any questions you may have in greater detail.

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