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.

How 3-D Imaging is Innovating Modern Medicine

, , , , , , Lifestyle, Face Lifts

3D-Imaging-Plastic-Surgery3-D imaging via medical diagnostic tools such as MRIs and CT scanning is completely revolutionizing modern medicine.

As these medical devices become increasingly more precise at an accelerating rate, they are providing doctors with more finely-detailed, high resolution 3-D imaging of their patients with each passing year.

At the same time as the rapid increase in the sensitivity and resolution of these modern imaging devices, the processing power of digital computation has continued its exponential growth in price-performance year over year, allowing physicians to render and analyze the data from 3-D imaging all the more effectively.

 

Innovations in 3-D Imaging Resolution

By contrast to the incremental improvements of medical techniques over the centuries, and even to radiography during the decades of the 20th century, in recent years the improvements to medical imaging are coming fast and making a difference by orders of magnitude.

A little over a year ago researchers at MIT announced they had developed an algorithm that exploits light polarization to boost the depth resolution of conventional 3-D imaging technology by 1,000 times.

Researchers say the technique is so promising that it could bring this technology to your pocket: “The technique could lead to high-quality 3-D cameras built into cellphones, and perhaps to the ability to snap a photo of an object and then use a 3-D printer to produce a replica.”

 

3-D Image Processing Speed

A high resolution imaging device has little useful application without the processing speed to match it. Processing power is essential to creating the images and manipulating the data in quality diagnostic scans made by imaging devices.

And it’s not only the rapid pace of improvement in the brute force of computer processing power that’s been essential to 3-D imaging innovation in recent years. It’s the implementation of software solutions that can use that power to effectively reconstruct volumetric data.

There’s also the configuration of hardware processing power in a way that’s effective and efficient for the kind of computation involved in 3-D imaging, such as the incorporation of GPUs (graphical processing units) like those used by gaming software to create better images faster than CPUs can.

 

Machine Learning and Modern 3-D Imaging

One innovator in the field, Mountain View, Calif.-based EchoPixel is helping surgeons take the guesswork out of surgical planning by allowing them to create a 3-D image from patient-imaging data and manipulate it in a virtual environment— to remove tumors, dissect tissues, or measure blood vessels. The technology is allowing physicians to get a more accurate view of their patients’ anatomy.

Furthermore, with the application of machine learning, the software records the clinician’s interactions with the 3-D imaging data, so other doctors can learn from the same steps and methodology. The software is compatible for use on different hardware devices, including wearable tech such as Google Glass, so it can be used in an operating room.

 

How 3-D Imaging is Saving Lives

An ounce of prevention: Along with life-saving advancements to surgery prep for critical surgeries that doctors perform on vital tissues and organs, 3-D imaging is saving lives in the critical field of medical diagnostics.

The use of modern computer 3-D images made from a composite of multiple 2-D radiographic images using tracers and contact dyes has allowed doctors to view a comprehensive image of a patient’s body and observe minor anomalies that would have otherwise gone undetected, providing vital early warning signs of potential health problems.

 

And Making Lives Better

With today’s level of sophistication in computer 3-D imaging technology, its use in medical practice has also found an ever-expanding role to play in helping doctors improve the quality and results of facial plastic and reconstructive surgery.

For patients seeking facial implants to improve the proportions or enhance the contours of their face, the computer era has made it possible for facial implants to be perfectly tailored to a patient’s face.

Custom implants made using 3-D imaging and computer-aided drafting look smoother, rounder, and anatomical, and allow facial reconstructive surgeons to correctly perceive the interaction of all facial features to create a balanced, well-proportioned face.

Dr. Binder was an early innovator in this field, noticing at first that facial implants of the time were not quite right, or as he would say: “non-anatomic.”

 

Pioneering Facial Contouring and 3-D Imaging

Before bringing the possibilities of high-resolution 3-D scanning, efficient digital rendering and imaging, and computer-aided drafting to fruition in facial reconstruction techniques, Dr. Binder did not see facial implants achieving the desired results he was striving to attain.

By innovating a system capable of fabricating custom-designed facial implants to a high degree of precision, Dr. Binder was able to pioneer a technique that allows the reconstruction of most facial contour defects with a higher degree of accuracy and better results than were ever before possible.

Neck Lift Surgery: When to Get it and What It Involves

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neck lift

Unfortunately, aging gets to us all, with signs of our passing years cropping up in different places for all of us. Stubborn fat, wrinkly skin, and sagging in all the wrong places may have you longing for the days of your once-youthful appearance. Fortunately, the current state of medicine allows for some truly magical solutions to just such problems. If you are interested in removing fat, there are several body procedures tailored for all shapes and sizes, if you wish to alter your facial appearance there are a multitude of unique surgeries to fit every individual’s needs. More specifically, within facial cosmetic surgery, there are multiple levels of aesthetic and functional procedures to help restore and rejuvenate your features and skin.

What is Cosmetic Neck Surgery?

The goal of a neck lift procedure (lower rhytidectomy) is to revitalize aging skin around the neck and jawline. Though the term “neck lift” implies strictly a tightening process, the surgery has the ability to shape and sculpt different areas of the neck, even with the potential to be combined with other facial cosmetic procedures.

The skin around our face and neck can be affected by several circumstances, including:

• Heredity factors
• Stress
• Rapid weight loss
• Sun Exposure
• Smoking
• Alcohol consumption
• Gravity
• Other environmental contaminants

These contributors along with just our body’s natural aging process, causes less than desirable changes to occur to our face and neck. Excess neck skin, fat deposits under or around the neck, and irregular contours beneath the jawline can all make us a little less confident than we should be and a little more self-conscious than we have to be. There are a variety of neck lift surgery options available.

Submental

As we age, the muscles in our neck begin to fall and drag the skin down with it. Over time, this is what causes bands to appear around the anterior of the neck. Because these muscles are so important to the structure and smoothness of our neck, they are re-purposed rather than removed. A supportive sling is created by isolating and relocating the platysmal muscles to help reinforce the neck.

Bidirectional Lift

This procedure targets the center and lower potions of the neck. Muscle underneath the chin is isolated and turned upward to reinforce and suspend drooping areas of muscle and fat. The result is a more well-defined jawline and better-contoured neck. The bidirectional lift is known as one of the longer lasting neck lift surgeries available.

Submental Liposuction

Liposuction is a great way to reduce fat around the neck for a smoother and tighter contour. Keep in mind, this is best suited for younger patients with enough skin elasticity around excess fat. Without this flexibility, a submental liposuction can have negative effects on the appearance of the shape of the neck.

Candidacy

If you are in good general health and are free of any existing conditions that could impair the healing process, you are most likely a good candidate for a neck lift surgery. As with any cosmetic procedure, it is always helpful to consult with a qualified cosmetic surgeon to get a clear idea of what you want done and to maintain healthy and realistic expectations for your results.

Dr. Binder’s cosmetic surgery in Beverly Hills is often considered the best option for solutions regarding facial cosmetic surgery. Our office is dedicated to establishing proper communication with prospective patients. Contact us today to schedule a consultation for your neck lift surgery in our Beverly Hills office.

open-or-closed-rhinoplasty

Open vs. Closed Rhinoplasty

, , , rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty, sometimes called a “nose job” or “nose reshaping” by patients, is a surgical procedure that reshapes or resizes the nose for health or cosmetic reasons. Due to its status as a well researched, regulated, and safe procedure, it is the third most common plastic surgery procedure in the United States. 

According to data collected by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) there were 217,979 rhinoplasty surgeries performed in 2015, accounting for about 13 percent of the year’s plastic surgery procedures. 

Both revision rhinoplasty surgery and the initial rhinoplasty procedure can be used to resolve health problems, such as correcting impaired breathing caused by the structure of the nose. Rhinoplasty is also used to resolve aesthetic problems by enhancing the harmony of the face’s lines and balancing the proportions of the nose.

Rhinoplasty 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 (an imbalance between the left and right hemispheres of the nose)

There are two major rhinoplasty techniques, open rhinoplasty and closed rhinoplasty. Let’s take a closer look at each procedure now… 

About Open Rhinoplasty 

Open rhinoplasty is performed after an incision is made in the columella (the delicate tissue that separates the nostrils). This allows the surgeon greater access to the tissue throughout the nose. Because it allows increased visibility of the nasal tissue during the operation, an open rhinoplasty is easier for the surgeon to perform. Another advantage to having an open rhinoplasty is that it can also allow for more dramatic revision of the shape and proportion of the nose. 

The open technique does sometimes lead to more noticeable scarring than the closed rhinoplasty technique.  Recovery after rhinoplasty using the open technique can also be more unpredictable and prone to complications than closed rhinoplasty recovery. On the other hand, open rhinoplasty can actually be less traumatic to the nose because the technique gives the surgeon more room to work and requires less modification to other internal nasal structures.

About Closed Rhinoplasty

Closed rhinoplasty involves performing the surgery entirely inside the nose without interfering with the columella. An internal procedure prevents visible scars from showing, so it is more favorable to patients seeking a more subtle transformation with less intrusive techniques. The closed rhinoplasty technique does require a facial surgeon with more experience and precision than its counterpart, the open rhinoplasty.

Although the closed rhinoplasty technique does result in minimal scarring, which is inside the nose and therefore not visible, it is also limited in the scope of the revisions it can make to the nose. Closed rhinoplasty recovery time can be easier and more predictable than recovery following rhinoplasty performed with the open technique, but it can also be more traumatic if a surgeon is indelicate or tries to make revisions that are too significant.

A Brief History of Rhinoplasty

Cosmetic surgery procedures of today are so medically advanced that they bear little to no resemblance to the techniques that gave birth to the field of rhinoplasty. Believe it or not, the first nose job was performed over 2,500 years ago on the subcontinent of India. It was achieved by removing a portion of flesh from the patient’s face and using this biomaterial to form a new nose.

About 20 centuries later, Europeans tried their hand at reimagining the human nose. Rampant warfare had left soldiers disfigured by the thousands, so medical experts of the time decided to engineer a prototypical grafting technique. It required the patient to keep his or her face pressed up against the upper region of the arm, allowing the skin around the new facial feature to re-grow. This process took a staggering three weeks of time, demanding an unimaginable level of stasis and contortion on the part of the recipient. After this initial phase of grafting, another two weeks was necessary to heal and reshape the flap of skin that was the patient’s de facto new nose.

These early examples would be considered the ultimate in “open rhinoplasty” since they greatly altered the skin around the nose (and elsewhere on the body) to create drastically new facial protrusions for these rudimentary test cases.

Luckily, technology and health sciences have made quantum leaps in the years since those dark old days. Instead of looking outward for tissue to replace the nose, skilled surgeons can utilize the flesh within it to craft a whole new look via closed rhinoplasty methods.

Hence, you now have the benefit of extensive research, experience, and options as you approach the myriad possibilities for your impending rhinoplasty procedure.

Is Open or Closed Rhinoplasty Best for Me?

Each rhinoplasty candidate is unique, so it is impossible to generalize and make a categorical statement about which rhinoplasty technique is better for all or even most patients. Health is never a “one size fits all” endeavor, so you should consult with a trusted physician before taking any definitive action.

Generally speaking, closed rhinoplasty is typically preferred because of the easier recovery process and the minimal, hidden scars, but there are numerous situations in which an open technique may be better for the patient.

Because it allows for more significant nasal revisions, open rhinoplasty may be preferable for candidates who are seeking a dramatic change, or who need dramatic reconstruction. A skilled plastic surgeon will still be able to minimize scar tissue and the appearance of scars following an open rhinoplasty. 

A patient who is only seeking a slight revision, or revisions that are concentrated on the bridge of the nose, and little to revisions desired for the tip of the nose, may be recommended to undergo the more subtle changes of a closed rhinoplasty operation.

Recovery and Results: A Case Study

As mentioned above, open rhinoplasty techniques allow for greater flexibility when it comes to more dramatic alterations of the patient’s chief facial feature. This includes the passage to the tip of the nose from within since the surgeon has full access via the osseocartilaginous vault. But if you’re hesitant to consider this procedure due to its invasive nature, please consider this recent case study:

98 patients underwent open rhinoplasty procedures in a given time period. Of those 98 subjects, only two required revision rhinoplasties, indicating that the open method allowed the surgeon to successfully operate without the hindrance of a closed approach. And in terms of scarring, the incision mark along the columella was virtually invisible on all of the patients involved in the study within weeks of the date of their respective procedures.

Is Rhinoplasty Right For You?

Regardless of which method of rhinoplasty (open vs. closed) you desire, you should be confident in your candidacy for the procedure before moving forward. As always, having a frank conversation with your doctor is the ideal first step in making this determination, but here’s a quick checklist to jump-start that talk…

You are a potentially good candidate for rhinoplasty:

  • If you are of a mature enough age so that your facial growth is complete
  • If you are in good overall health – while cosmetic surgery is safe on the whole, it does require a certain level of stamina to assure a speedy recovery
  • If you are a non-smoker (tobacco use is detrimental to your health in a plethora of ways, damaging your skin, lungs, and thus increasing your recovery time)
  • And if you have a positive, realistic outlook and goals for what you expect in the improvement of your appearance

Choosing the Right Plastic Surgeon for Your Rhinoplasty

Now that you have considered whether or not rhinoplasty is right for you, let’s ask an even more important question: who is the right doctor for your specific needs? Your facial surgeon must exude a trustworthiness so that you can ask him or her anything that’s on your mind before you set foot in the exam room.

This individual can help you determine which technique is best for your rhinoplasty procedure during your initial consultation. It’s important to clearly communicate your expectations for the results of your rhinoplasty surgery and share your complete health history, including dental history, with your plastic surgeon, so that they can choose the best technique for your health and goals.

It is therefore essential that you choose the right plastic surgeon for your rhinoplasty procedure in particular so that you can be confident in your results. A plastic surgeon who is skilled and experienced, especially in rhinoplasty, is the difference between glamorous plastic surgery results and a tragic plastic surgery horror story.

If possible, patients should seek out a plastic surgeon who specializes in facial plastic surgeries like rhinoplasty.

Dr. William J. Binder

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

He is double board certified and has 10 U.S. and global patents on medical and surgical devices and pharmaceuticals and is extensively published across various medical journals.

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

Rhinoplasty Prep: A Few Tips

rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty-prep-doctor-binder

Rhinoplasty Prep: How to Prepare For Your Rhinoplasty

Undergoing any type of surgery is always a daunting and stressful process. Carefully preparing for your rhinoplasty surgery will build confidence in yourself and your surgeon, and ensure that your recovery yields the best possible results.

Be sure to select a board-certified surgeon who makes you feel comfortable, and has outstanding reviews with a track record of achieving impressive results with past patients.

Here are a few more tips to consider prior to having your rhinoplasty surgery…

Rhinoplasty Preparation: Your Consultation

The most important thing to do before scheduling your rhinoplasty is to meet with your surgeon. A personal consultation allows you to learn whether rhinoplasty will work for you, and how well the surgeon fits your desires.

During your appointment, you should expect to discuss your medical history, undergo a physical exam, and talk about your goals and expectations for rhinoplasty. You may also have photographs taken of your nose at various angles so that your doctor can assess your results.

Be sure to learn what to expect on the day of your procedure. Which staff will you interact with? When should you arrive and expect to leave? What medications will you receive, and what sort of side effects could you experience? Take time to discuss any questions or concerns you have with the surgeon in detail.

Rhinoplasty: Medications

Two weeks before and after your procedure, you should avoid alcohol and medications that can increase bleeding, like aspirin or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, and others).

Only take medications approved or prescribed by your surgeon. During this time, you should refrain from smoking, which slows healing and may increase the chance of infection. You may also want to consider taking supplements containing iron and vitamins C and E, which promote healing.

Rhinoplasty: Recovery Time

Plan for about two weeks off of work to recover. If you’re having an outpatient procedure, you should also arrange to have someone drive you home following surgery. You may also want someone to stay with you for a day or two after your rhinoplasty to assist you, as anesthesia often leads to impaired judgment, memory lapses, and slowed reaction time.

Make sure your surgeon knows about any other prescriptions you take, and have any medications your surgeon prescribes filled before surgery to avoid running out while impaired. Stock up on soft foods to make eating more convenient, assemble supplies needed for cold compresses, and make sure any important chores are completed beforehand.

Rhinoplasty: The Night Before

Do not eat or drink past midnight the night before your surgery. Try your best to get a good night’s sleep. In the morning, thoroughly wash your face and make sure that you are not wearing any cosmetics, including nail polish.

Most importantly, follow any directions your surgeon has given you.

Schedule a Consultation With Dr. Binder

If you’re considering a rhinoplasty procedure, the right surgeon is imperative in ensuring that your experience is a pleasant one that achieves the results you want. Schedule a consultation today with Dr. Binder, who takes the time to relieve his patients’ concerns to make them feel comfortable and confident. For this and all of your plastic surgery questions, contact the experts at Beverly Hills Plastic Surgery.

Related Posts

Broad Nasal Tip Rhinoplasty: What You Need to Know
How to Fix a Crooked Nose: Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty Surgery for Better Breathing

rhinoplasty

rihinoplasty-for-better-breathing-doctor-binder

Rhinoplasty Surgery Has Many Benefits

Rhinoplasty surgery is a widely sought after cosmetic procedure because of its beauty benefits, but it is also hugely popular for its numerous medical benefits. In particular, rhinoplasties serve as an effective treatment for correcting breathing problems, such as those caused by a deviated septum. These procedures are referred to as functional rhinoplasties, and may or may not involve altering the appearance of the nose based on the patient’s needs and desires.

The right surgeon will be able to address patients’ desires for both aesthetic form and physical function. When selecting your surgeon, read reviews and refer to patient photos to ensure that his or her results will satisfy your desires.

Good Candidates for Functional Rhinoplasty Surgery

Candidates for functional rhinoplasty generally have some sort of airway obstruction. Symptoms indicating such an obstruction can include: chronic nasal congestion, dry mouth, reduced sense of smell, nosebleed, sleep problems, or recurring sinus issues, including infections and headaches. Obstructions can eventually result in insomnia, hypertension, obstructive sleep apnea, and heart disease if left unaddressed.

Mild Cases

There are three specific surgeries that fall into the category of functional rhinoplasty used to correct mild nasal blockages:

1. Nasal Septoplasty

Nasal septoplasty is used to correct a deviated septum, which is when the wall between the nasal passages is in some way misshapen, blocking one or both air passages. Septoplasty straightens this wall, and is usually just a simple 15-30 minute procedure with a quick recovery.

2. Turbinate Reduction

The most common cause of nasal obstruction is enlarged turbinates, which are the mucous membrane-covered bones which extend the length of the nasal cavity. Occasionally, one of these turbinates will develop an air pocket leading to obstruction. Due to the role turbinates play in filtering oxygen and keeping it moist, only a part of the turbinate tissue will be removed. Like septoplasty, turbinate reduction is generally a simple procedure with a quick recovery, though there is a slightly increased chance of bleeding for a few weeks until the membranes have completely recovered.

3. Nasal Polyp Removal

Nasal polyps are benign growths that can block nasal passages. Removal is generally simple, but polyps will often develop again. The chance of this happening can be decreased with comprehensive allergy treatment, especially for fungal allergies.

Severe Cases

More severe cases—such as those involving twisted, collapsed, or pinched noses—cannot be improved simply through internal modifications. In these cases, more significant external revisions are needed to clear obstruction.

Insurance Coverage

Unlike rhinoplasties performed solely for aesthetic purposes, functional rhinoplasties are typically covered by insurance. If a patient is considering rhinoplasty for both aesthetic and functional reasons, insurance will cover both revisions if addressed in the same procedure. Furthermore, addressing both issues at once reduces downtime when compared to multiple, separate surgeries. This also allows the surgeon to design a more comprehensive solution, taking both beauty and function into account.

Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Binder

If you suffer from impaired breathing, schedule a consultation with Dr. Binder today to determine if a functional rhinoplasty is right for you. Dr. Binder has a stellar record of patient satisfaction, and our caring staff are always happy to address any related questions or concerns.

Related Posts:

Open vs Closed Rhinoplasty: How They Compare
How to Fix a Crooked Nose: Rhinoplasty

Chemical Peels Turn Back the Clock

Lifestyle

chemical peels

Chemical Peels Fight Skin Damage

As we age, so does our skin. It’s not all bad, mind you. If you applied sun block religiously growing up and stuck to a healthy diet, you’re in better shape than most.  Unfortunately, most will realize the effects of daily exposure to the sun. You may not have believed it when you were celebrating your 21st birthday soaking up the rays, poolside in Las Vegas, but you better believe it now: Skin damage caused by the sun is cumulative.

Maturity makes us stronger in so many ways, but that isn’t the case with our skin. Our face and neck is particularly vulnerable to scars, acne, wrinkles, or other pigmentation changes. To resolve these age-related issues, most people resort to spending a considerable amount on skincare products with high (lofty) claims and unsatisfactory results.

When it comes to facial chemical peels, however, the results are guaranteed.

What Is a Chemical Peel?

Chemical peels, also known as chem-exfoliation or derma peels, are used to improve the appearance of the skin on the face, neck, or hands. A chemical solution is applied to exfoliate dead cells from the skin, encouraging new, regenerated skin to surface. As a result, the new skin is visibly smoother and less wrinkled.

Chemical peels commonly fall into one of three categories: light, medium, or deep.

* Light peels, also known as superficial or lunchtime peels, use alpha-hydroxy acid or another mild acid to penetrate only the outermost layer of skin. This gently exfoliates the skin while improving the appearance of mild skin discoloration and rough patches.

* Medium peels use glycolic or trichloroacetic acid to penetrate the outer and middle layers of skin to remove damaged skin cells. The treatment is specifically used to improve age spots, fine lines and wrinkles, freckles, and moderate skin discoloration. It can also be used to smooth rough skin and treat precancerous skin growths.

* Deep peels use trichloroacetic acid or phenol to penetrate the middle layer of the skin to remove damaged skin cells. This treatment is used to remove moderate lines, age spots, freckles, and shallow scars. This will result in the most visible improvement in your skin’s appearance, and can only be used on the face and performed only once.

The Chemical Peel Procedure

A chemical peel can be done in a doctor’s office or in a surgery center, and is usually an outpatient procedure. During the procedure, the professional will first clean your skin thoroughly.

Then he or she will apply one or more chemical solutions—such as glycolic acid, trichloroacetic acid, salicylic acid, or lactic acid—to small areas of your skin. During this process, controlled exfoliation is performed, allowing fresh skin to surface.

This may result in a burning sensation that lasts about five to ten minutes, followed by a stinging sensation. To ease this discomfort, a cool compression may be applied. For deep peels, pain medication may be needed during or after the treatment.

How Do I Prepare for a Chemical Peel Procedure?

Pre-treatment instructions will be provided by your skincare professional or plastic surgeon. Prior to your scheduled appointment, you will need to disclose your medical history. Information you may be asked to provide include:

* Prescribed medications for severe acne, such as Isotretinoin
* History of medications including antibiotics, acne medicine, etc
* History and frequency of cold sores
* History of herbs, vitamins, and minerals you take

On the day of your procedure, come prepared with a clean face free of makeup or skincare products.

What are the Risks and Benefits?

A chemical peel is one of the least invasive ways to improve the appearance of your skin. Benefits include the correction of:

* Acne or acne scars
* Age or liver spots
* Fine lines and wrinkles
* Freckles
* Uneven skin pigmentation
* Rough skin and patches
* Sun damage

A chemical peel will not treat the following:
* Deep facial lines
* Loose or sagging skin
* Pore size
* Deep scars

A chemical peel is not recommended for individuals with infections, active skin disease, cut or broken skin, sunburn, or active herpes simplex 1 sores. Poor candidates also include patients who are:

* Nursing or pregnant
* Have used Retin-A, Renova, prescription skincare products or products that contain ascorbic acid, and/or bleaching or skin-lightening agents in the last 48 hours
* Have taken Accutane in the last six months
* Have psoriasis, eczema, dermatitis, or rosacea

Risks may include:

* Temporary or permanent change in skin color, particularly for women on birth control pills
* Reactivation of cold sores
* Scarring

Chemical Peel Recovery – What Should I Expect?

Depending on the chemical peel, post operational care and recovery instructions may vary.
Prepare to expect the following:

* Light peels require 1-7 days to heal. Post-treatment, the skin will initially be red and may flake. Lotion or cream should be applied until the skin heals, followed by daily use of sunscreen. Makeup can be worn the next day.

* Medium peels require 7-14 days to heal. Post-treatment, the skin will initially be red and swollen, and may worsen within the first 48 hours. Eyelids may swell shut, and blisters may form and break. Aftercare will require skin to be soaked daily for specific periods of time, followed by ointment application.

Antiviral medication is also taken for 10-14 days, and mild lotion or cream may be applied. Makeup may be worn after five to seven days, and sun exposure needs to remain minimal until healing is complete. Lastly, a follow-up appointment will be necessary to monitor progress.

* Deep peels require 14-21 days to heal. Post-treatment, the skin will be bandaged. Aftercare will require the skin to be soaked 4-6 times daily, followed by ointment application for the first 14 days.

Afterwards, a thick moisturizer is needed for the next 14 days. Anti-viral medication is also taken for the first 10-14 days, and mild lotion or cream may be applied. Makeup may be worn after 14 days, but avoid all sun exposure for 3-6 months. Lastly, several follow-up appointments will be necessary to monitor progress.

Schedule a Consultation for a Chemical Peel

Don’t let imperfections and the signs of aging dampen your confidence. A chemical peel can restore youth and radiance to your complexion, leaving you feeling beautiful and rejuvenated. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Binder today to determine which chemical peel is best suited for your skin.

For this and all related skincare questions, contact Dr. Binder and his staff today.

Thinking About Getting Botox? Here’s What You Should Know

, Lifestyle

botox beautiful girlWhen we take a look back throughout history, it’s clear to see that efforts to revitalize the skin and fight the signs of age are nothing new. Over the centuries, different methods and techniques have be used with this very goal in mind. More recently, Botox Cosmetic has stepped into the spotlight as an immensely popular and innovative wrinkle-fighting treatment. Ever since it got the go-ahead by the FDA in 2002, it has become all the rage, being used by celebrities, superstars, and men and women alike.

Splashed over the media are a few “frozen face” cases that have given Botox a bit of a bum rap. However, it continues to squash the stereotype through its ability to safely and effectively produce great results. If Botox treatments have been on your mind lately, here’s some important info that you should know:

What is Botox & What Can it be Used For?

Botox (Botulinum Toxin A) is a purified protein that can be used to reduce the appearance of pesky frown lines, crow’s feet, forehead lines, and more. How does it do this? Well, unlike injectable fillers that fill in unwanted lines and creases, Botox works to temporarily block nerve signals and muscle activity that brings about dynamic wrinkles (wrinkles caused by facial expressions). When these wrinkles relax, this produces a smoothening and softening effect and results in more youthful looking skin. But even beyond such aesthetic applications, Botox is used in the medical world for various purposes such as treating migraine headaches, incontinence, and excessive sweating.

Who Makes a Good Candidate?

Ultimately, your doctor will help determine if it’s right for you, but if you are in good health and have moderate to severe facial lines, your candidacy for Botox is off to a great start. On the other hand, these factors do not characterize an ideal candidate:

  • If you are currently pregnant or breastfeeding
  • If you have a nerve or muscle disorder
  • If you are allergic to the ingredients in Botox

Do the Injections Hurt?

Generally speaking, most patients experience minimal discomfort or pain during the injections, as very small needles are used during treatment. It’s common for a momentary light pinching sensation to be felt, and if you are concerned about this part of the process, your administrator may apply a topical anesthesia or ice to numb the area.

How Long Does Botox Last?

After approximately 3 to 6 months, the facial muscle activity will resume and additional treatments will be necessary in order to maintain optimal the appearance of reduced wrinkles. On the same note, repeated treatments have been known to extend how long the results last.

Where to Go For Treatments

Being so popular, Botox can be found in all sorts of places. From salons, to parties, to even the dentist’s office, it seems like Botox is everywhere and ripe and ready for the administering. While that may sound fun and convenient, it’s important to go to a board-certified plastic surgeon or a qualified physician to ensure that the treatment is safely and appropriately performed.

How to Schedule an Appointment

Rest assured that aiming to keep wrinkles at bay with Botox, really should involve the help of a skilled professional. Dr. William Binder has extensively worked with Botox, including groundbreaking work with its use for migraines. Throughout his research and experience, he has developed a refined technique that has allowed patients to achieve excellent results. To schedule your appointment, contact our Beverly Hills office or call us at (310) 858-6749 today.

How to Fix a Crooked Nose: Rhinoplasty

, , , rhinoplasty

Woman-Holds-Her-NoseA crooked nose can cause considerable insecurity. Fortunately, rhinoplasty can renew confidence in your facial appearance. If a crooked nose is something you desire to correct, here are a few things to consider before making your final decision on rhinoplasty surgery:

Potential Difficulties

A rhinoplasty procedure designed to correct a crooked nose is actually very complex for a number of reasons. First, the deviated cartilage and bone which cause the appearance of crookedness tend to drift back to their undesired positions, even after surgery. Second, plastic surgeons often struggle when operating on patients with asymmetrical faces, which make it difficult to locate the midline plane where the nose should be repositioned.

The Procedure

In short, the goal of this procedure is to straighten the nasal structure through repositioning the septum and nasal bones. Septal deviation must be addressed, or else the nose will be continually pushed out of position. If the caudal septum is off center, it will have to be rebuilt it in the midline; then, the surgeon will address deviations in the nasal bones.

Deviated Nasal Bones

If trauma has forced the nasal bones out of position, the bones must be treated immediately. Otherwise, the bones will heal in their crooked position. Resetting the bones will take about six weeks. After this, the bone fractures can be addressed. By making osteotomies—or bone cuts— with a chisel, the crooked bones may be reset to their proper positions.

Other Causes of a Crooked Nose

Internal and external valve collapse are other common causes of a crooked nose. Patients who have noticed a pinch in their nose that creates asymmetric shadowing likely have this condition. These conditions will create the appearance of a crooked nose, even if the rest of the nose is properly aligned. This is treated with a spreader graft, which will expand the internal nasal valves that have collapsed.

For more information about crooked nose rhinoplasty and other cosmetic procedures, schedule a consultation with Dr. Binder today.

Broad Nasal Tip Rhinoplasty: What You Need to Know

, , , rhinoplasty

Portrait-Of-A-Beautiful-Young-61158956-727x409A larger nose—a broad nasal tip, specifically—is a common source of insecurity. With your surgeon’s approval, nasal tip rhinoplasty would be an excellent step towards achieving a more refined facial structure. This procedure focuses specifically on the nasal tip, which is the most protrusive part of the face. While it may sound like a minor adjustment, a more refined nasal tip works wonders for transforming your facial appearance.

The Results

A tip refinement procedure will be catered to the needs of the patient and the recommendations of the surgeon. The procedure can either make the nasal tip appear more pronounced, or reduce the tip considerably. It all depends on your facial structure. Consult a trusted plastic surgeon to discuss your personal options.

The Procedure

The procedure typically lasts from one to two hours, or longer if extensive alterations are required. After sedation, the plastic surgeon will examine the internal nasal structure using a 3D, high definition camera. Cartilage under the nose is then exposed so that structural alterations can be made.

The remaining steps are then determined by your personal preferences. Fat tissue may be removed or repositioned, creating more definition. Implants may be placed to fortify cartilage and reorient the nasal tip. Grafts may also be used to improve tip projection. When the surgeon has finished, the incisions will sealed with dissolvable sutures.

Recovery

Fortunately, the mucus lining heals quickly, reducing the risk of scarring. Moreover, since every incision is made internally, any scarring that does occur will not be visible.

Following the postoperative regimen prescribed by your surgeon is crucial to achieving the results you desire. Avoid contact sports or other forms of strenuous exercise, which may stress the nose and cause inflammation. Nasal canals should be kept clean to prevent infection. Purchase a nasal kit that will irrigate your nose and sinuses. If you experience pain or discomfort, your doctor can recommend pain-relievers that are safe to use. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience symptoms such as excessive bleeding or intense pain.

Risks

Rhinoplasties carry the same risks as any surgical procedure. Infection may occur, but antibiotics and regular cleansing of the nasal passages reduce the risk dramatically. In rare cases, patients have experienced adverse reactions to anesthesia. Make certain that you are medically cleared for the procedure before deciding on surgery.

If a broad tip rhinoplasty sounds right for you, schedule a consultation with Dr. Binder today to discuss your personal desires and options.

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