Rhinoplasty Computer Imaging Enhances Results

Rhinoplasty or nose job is a procedure that reshapes the nose for reconstructive or cosmetic purposes. It can alter the shape, size, and contour of the nose, resulting in better facial balance.

Rhinoplasty is one of the few surgeries where a millimeter of change can make a big difference. Nasal surgery is very personalized, and one of the most demanding of all the cosmetic plastic procedures in which Dr. Clevens specializes.

With the advent of computer imaging, communicating what is possible has become a little easier.

At the Clevens Face and Body Specialists, we find computer imaging to be a vital part of our cosmetic and functional rhinoplasty consultations. In this process, we take photos of the patient and "morph" or "photoshop" them on the computer to give the patient a simulation of the appearance of the nose following surgery. This exercise gives the patient a chance to communicate his or her aesthetic to us and for our team to explain what results are realistic given the patient's anatomy and skin type, as a picture. Since it is your picture, it is easier to see what changes will look like on your face, rather than looking at someone else’s before and after pictures.

One of the most common nasal deformities (for lack of a better word) that we fix is the dorsal hump, or bump on the nose, best seen in profile. It is often a part of one’s ethnicity, and how much modification is desired becomes critical. Computer imaging allows us to try out several approaches:

1) Reducing the bump
2) Removing the bump
3) Overresecting the bump

While these words may give you an idea of what the approaches are, modified pictures showing your nose with a smaller bump, a straight nasal profile or a slight scoop, makes the planned outcome much more tangible.

Computer imaging works well for tip modification also. The width, height and projection of the nasal tip can be modified on the screen. By knowing your options, you can be confident that the best decisions are being made.

Since the surgery has to be completed with a scalpel and other tools (not including photoshop) there are some limitations to what can be done physically, but computer imaging for nasal surgery is a great tool that really helps us make our patients happy. It adds predictability to a surgery where small changes go a long way.

If you have general questions about Rhinoplasty (Nose Reshaping) or are considering nasal surgery, give us a call or use the contact form on the right. Dr. Clevens has many happy Orlando Area Rhinoplasty patients. To schedule your private consultation, call (321) 727-3223 to make an appointment.