Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty, also known as nose reshaping or cosmetic nose surgery, is a procedure that can correct cosmetic imperfections and proportions of the nose. This enhances facial harmony, facial beauty, and self-confidence while also having the ability to solve functionality issues. While undeniably common, rhinoplasties are still very complex, as there are many variables to consider not only pertaining to the nose, but the rest of the facial structure as well. ⁽¹⁾

For the best rhinoplasty results, it is of utmost importance that the plastic surgeon performing the procedure has a keen, artistic eye, well as advanced surgical skills. Dr. Gaby Doumit has over 15 years of experience producing natural and appealing results with nasal surgery. He has written journal articles and textbook chapters about the procedure for plastic surgeons, and continues to facilitate over 100 closed rhinoplasties per year.

Before and After Photos

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About Rhinoplasty

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to rhinoplasties; the characteristics of each patient are very different, so careful consideration must go into ascertaining the most suitable approach for each unique nose. ⁽¹⁾ This is true even if a patient has an ideal nose shape in mind. The nose consists of the complex regions of the external nose, the internal nose, and the vascular network. ⁽¹⁾

Rhinoplasties can be cosmetic, functional, or both. ⁽¹⁾ For patients who experience nasal obstructions or structural blockages, we can take an approach focused on improving these features and in turn improving the patient’s quality of life. ⁽¹⁾ The external nose consists of a bony and cartilaginous framework, covered by muscles, soft tissue, and skin. The internal nose is constituted of the septum and the turbinates, all of which are covered by mucosa.

While considering the features of the nose that the patient would like to change, Dr. Doumit will carefully plan how to apply advanced techniques in order to provide the most pleasing result.

Ultrasonic Rhinoplasty

Ultrasonic rhinoplasty is a pioneering approach to nasal reshaping that efficiently combines advanced surgical techniques with innovative ultrasonic technology. This procedure has gained traction as a transformative solution for individuals desiring to enhance their facial aesthetics while minimizing trauma to the surrounding tissues. Whether addressing aesthetic concerns or functional deviations, ultrasonic rhinoplasty offers precision reshaping of the nasal structure. ⁽²⁾ This tool is advantageous because it makes for smooth and accurate cuts and also helps preserve the tissues near the bone. ⁽²⁾ It also features different ultrasonic power settings for precision in different areas. ⁽²⁾

Closed Rhinoplasty Technique

Dr. Doumit can use the closed rhinoplasty technique for patients who want minimal visible scarring. ⁽³⁾ During a closed rhinoplasty, he will make intranasal incisions (inside the nose), as opposed to outside of the nose. This procedure is at times preferable to an open rhinoplasty because it is does not take as long and it requires a shorter recovery period. ⁽³⁾

Open Rhinoplasty Technique

During an open rhinoplasty, Dr. Doumit will make an incision across the small strip of skin, or columella, that separates the nostrils. ⁽³⁾ The rest of the incisions are similar to the closed approach. The open rhinoplasty will leave a very minor scar across the columella that tends to fade with time, but it allows for better access to the nasal structures beneath the skin when compared to the closed technique. ⁽³⁾

Benefits of Rhinoplasty

Some specific benefits of a rhinoplasty include:

Candidates

If you are not happy with the current appearance of your nose, or if you experience nose-related breathing problems, you are most likely a good candidate for a rhinoplasty. Patients who seek rhinoplasties often experience one or more of the following issues that can be improved by a rhinoplasty:

The vast majority of cosmetic nose surgeries are performed in teenagers and young adults. Dr. Doumit will not operate on a patient’s nose until at least 1 year after it has stopped developing, which is around age 15 for females and age 17 for males. ⁽¹⁾ However, there is an increasing number of patients in their 30s to 60s showing interest in rhinoplasties. Advancements that have made for a shorter healing time and more natural-looking results have encouraged many of these older patients to proceed with surgery.

Personal Consultation

We offer a free consultation so that you can meet our team and learn more about the rhinoplasty procedure. During this meeting, we will encourage you to tell us what you would like to alter about your nose, and we will evaluate its shape and characteristics. We will also ask questions regarding your medical history and any previous procedures. Based on our evaluations and your goals, Dr. Doumit will formulate a surgical plan that is consistent with your desires and nasal anatomy as they relate to the context of your entire face. Dr. Doumit will explain in detail the intricacies of your nasal anatomy and the steps of the procedure that will provide you with a nose that is natural-looking and more functional.

To schedule a consultation, please call our Montreal office at (514) 932-8200 or fill out our online contact form.

Preparation

To prepare for your rhinoplasty, we will photograph your nose at different angles in order to create a detailed plan for the surgery. ⁽¹⁾ For patients who are taking certain medications, we might ask that they suspend or alter their medication regimen temporarily so that they do not interfere with the procedure. ⁽¹⁾ We will recommend that you avoid anti-inflammatory medications like aspirin and certain supplements altogether, as they have blood-thinning properties that could adversely affect the procedure and its results.

Before your appointment, Dr. Doumit will give you detailed instructions for how to prepare for all stages of a rhinoplasty. You should arrange for somebody you trust to drive you to and from the appointment, and plan to take some time off of work.

Procedure

A rhinoplasty is an outpatient procedure, meaning that you will not need to stay overnight in a hospital. Cosmetic nose surgery generally takes around 2 hours. Dr. Doumit will perform either the closed or open rhinoplasty technique depending on the patient’s situation. The specifics of these two procedures and their capabilities will vary. After making the incisions, Dr. Doumit will sculpt the areas of the nose that require attention using the ultrasonic tool.

The rhinoplasty techniques we use help maintain the architectural integrity of the nose over time. This contributes to a natural-looking nose while also ensuring that the nose continues to function efficiently. If the original anatomy of the nose is lacking in architectural integrity, Dr. Doumit can rebuild the nose by using cartilage from the septum, which is the section that divides the nostrils. Or, more rarely, a piece of cartilage from the ear or a section of rib cartilage can be used for more severe nasal deformities.

Incisions will most likely be discreetly placed in the natural creases of the nostrils. Once the nasal structures are built up or defined, Dr. Doumit will redrape the nasal skin and close the incision with resorbable sutures.

Recovery

Dr. Doumit may place external and internal splints to support the nose that should remain in place for about 5-7 days following the surgery. You will need to sleep with your head elevated after your rhinoplasty. If you experience swelling during your recovery, we recommend gently using cold compresses or ice packs. The stitches we use are resorbable, which means they are self-absorbing and will not need to be removed during another appointment. Swelling and stuffiness of the nose is common for the first few weeks following surgery. Most patients return to school or work after 1- 2 weeks. More strenuous activities, like exercise, can be resumed in 3 weeks, or 6 weeks for contact sports.

Results

Because of how important and central the nose is to the rest of the face, a rhinoplasty can dramatically enhance a person’s appearance. After a rhinoplasty, the improved appearance of the nose will be visible as soon as the splints are removed. However, final results will be apparent after the initial swelling and bruising goes away. It can take up to a year for the swelling to fully subside and for your new nasal shape to be completely refined. However, patients often notice and enjoy their new appearance within weeks of surgery.

Cost of Rhinoplasty in Montreal

The cost of a rhinoplasty in Montreal varies according to the complexity of the surgery that needs to be performed.

We can provide the following estimations:

In order to receive an estimation that is more specific to you and your rhinoplasty, call our office at (514) 932-8200 or fill out our contact form to set up a personal consultation.

References

1. Fichman M, Piedra Buena IT. Rhinoplasty. PubMed. Published 2020. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK558970/
2. Hjelm N, Goldfarb J, Krein H, Heffelfinger RN, Pribitkin E. Sonic Rhinoplasty: Review and Updated Uses. Facial Plastic Surgery. Published online August 24, 2020. doi:https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0040-1714673
3. Gupta R, John J, Ranganathan N, et al. Outcomes of Closed versus Open Rhinoplasty: A Systematic Review. Archives of Plastic Surgery. 2022;49(05):569-579. doi:https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0042-1756315