Rhinoplasty: Breathing vs. Beauty

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?