Plastic Surgery Myths

If you’re thinking about getting plastic surgery, the amount of information out there can be a bit overwhelming, and when doing research it may be tricky to tell what information is reliable and what isn’t. As a surgeon who is experienced in a variety of face, head, and neck procedures, I’m very aware of many of the misconceptions surrounding plastic surgery. In this post, I would like to debunk four of the most common myths about plastic and reconstructive surgery.

Plastic surgery is only done to improve your appearance.

Appearance and aesthetic represent only a portion of the reasons why plastic surgery may be performed. Plastic surgery refers to any surgery/procedure that alters the body, and there is a broad spectrum of reasons why such a procedure may be performed. On one end are the bodily alterations which are done for purely aesthetic or cosmetic reasons. Some examples include aesthetic rhinoplasty (nose job), facelift, aesthetic breast augmentation, and chin augmentation, among numerous other surgeries.

On the other end of the spectrum is purely reconstructive surgery, which is typically performed to restore the form and function of a part of the body which has been compromised. This compromise can result from congenital birth defects, trauma, or even cancer. Some examples of reconstructive plastic surgeries include breast reconstruction after mastectomy, free flap reconstruction of the head and neck after cancer removal, or nerve/limb surgery after physical trauma. 

Between these two extremes, many types of plastic surgery are performed both for appearance and function. There are numerous functional compromises that can also result in aesthetic deficiencies. A classic example of this is rhinoplasty. Many individuals who have suffered trauma or are born with inherently deficient nasal structures have an inability to breathe normally. These structural deficiencies also correspond to aesthetic issues. A broken nose may cause a deviation of the nose to one side of the face which both affects the symmetry of the face and causes an airway obstruction which affects your ability to breathe. Another example is saddle nose deformity, which similarly impacts breathing while also causing the nose to have a collapsed appearance.

Plastic surgery is only for women. 

Plastic surgery is for everyone! There is nothing specific to any gender about the desire to look and feel your best, and the types of injuries and health issues which may necessitate reconstructive surgery are certainly not limited to women.

Plastic surgery won’t leave any scars.

Scars result from any disruption of the external skins of the face or body. If a surgery is performed through an incision, no matter how big or how small, scarring will occur. However, proper aftercare and attention from both the surgeon and patient can ensure that any aesthetic issues will be minimized and you will be pleased with the resulting appearance. Following plastic surgery for removal of cancer, there are also post-surgical options such as silicone-based therapies or laser treatments which may be deployed.

All doctors are the same when it comes to finding a plastic surgeon.

Myth!!! This cannot be emphasized enough. Not all plastic surgeons are the same! Firstly, it is important to understand that some surgeons may specialize in a certain procedure and/or body region. For example, some plastic surgeons (like myself), only perform plastic surgery of the face, head, and neck. Other plastic surgeons may perform only plastic surgery on the body. Sometimes, some plastic surgeons may even specialize even more in a single type of procedure (e.g. Breast Augmentation).

It is important to understand what your surgeon’s specialty is, and what they perform well. Don’t ever feel uncomfortable or hesitant to ask! We are professionals and as a patient, you have the right to be pointed and direct. Here are some good questions to ask:

• How many of these surgeries do you do in your practice?
• Do you specialize in any areas of plastic surgery?
• Have you seen many cases similar to mine? What have the outcomes been?

Once you have decided that a surgeon is a good fit in terms of your needs, you need to determine if that surgeon is a good fit in general. You must feel very comfortable with your surgeon. Having plastic surgery is not just signing up for a procedure – it’s a commitment to a relationship with your surgeon, and you should make absolutely certain that you feel comfortable with them.

The journey of plastic surgery can be long and requires open communication, understanding, and comfort with the surgeon and their office. You need to take note of the environment in which you will be having surgery, from your encounters with staff to interactions with the surgeon during consultation. You need to be confident that you are getting all of the information you need to make an informed decision, and that your surgeon is available to take you through that process with patience and empathy.

You should know that surgery may not always go as planned, and it is important to feel that you are in a place where your surgeon and their office will take care of you throughout the process. 

Also, some surgeons will offer you a single procedure that can be a good fit for their experience and background but may not be the best surgery for your needs. Depending on the surgery you are having, it is important to know that you may have more than one option as to the surgery being performed.

I always tell my patients that when they walk out, they need to understand their personal anatomy and the exact nature of their procedure. I define the problem, and my recommended course of action, and make sure that my patients fully understand the plan for treatment. If my patients have more than one option in terms of the type of procedure, I will be sure to outline the alternatives of care, and the risks and benefits of each. Nothing is more important to me than empowering everyone who comes to me for a procedure to make the best possible decision for themselves. 

See Before and After Patient Photos

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A hole in nose is medically referred to as a nasal septal perforation. This hole appears in the nasal septum, a portion of cartilage that separates the left and the right nasal airway passages. The symptoms can vary depending on the size of the perforation and other factors, but may include pain, runny nose, nosebleeds, and breathing issues.

How can someone get a hole in nose?

There are many causes to develop a nasal septal perforation. Medications and drug use can often compromise the blood flow to the nasal septum by causing constriction or tightening of the blood vessels in the nasal septum.

This causes decreased blood flow to the nasal septum, which causes tissue loss. Drugs such as cocaine or over the counter topical spray nasal decongestants can cause septal perforation if used over a long period of time.

Other causes include trauma to the nose, which may lead to a septal hematoma or abscess, that leads to perforation and loss of nasal septal cartilage. Chronic and compulsive nose picking can also lead to a hole in the septum. Additionally, prior surgeries, specifically nasal and sinus surgeries, can cause a perforation in the septum.

Can a septal perforation heal on its own?

It is very rare for a septal perforation to heal on its own. Typically the area needs to be reconstructed through surgery in order to correct the perforation.

Will a hole in the nose get bigger overtime?

It is not uncommon for nasal septal perforations to increase in size over time. Septal perforations cause turbulent airflow which leads to collection of crust and debris along the edges of the septal perforation. This crust can further erode the edges of the hole, making it grow larger over time.

What can be done to fix a hole in a nose?

A septal perforation, or a hole in the nasal septum, can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms, including nasal dryness, crusting, bleeding, and difficulty breathing.

Treatment options vary based on the size and severity of the perforation, as well as the individual’s symptoms and lifestyle preferences. Here’s a detailed look at the available treatment methods:

1. Conservative Management

Conservative, non-surgical management is often the first line of treatment for smaller septal perforations or when symptoms are mild. The goal is to keep the nasal passages moist and reduce discomfort. This approach includes:

• Nasal Irrigations: Frequent use of saline nasal sprays or rinses can help clear debris, reduce crusting, and maintain moisture in the nasal passages.
• Nasal Emollients: Applying nasal moisturizers or emollients like petroleum jelly (Vaseline) can protect the mucous membranes and minimize irritation and crust formation.
• Air Humidifiers: Using a humidifier in living or sleeping areas can increase air moisture, preventing dryness that may worsen symptoms of a septal perforation.

While these measures can provide relief, they do not repair the perforation and may not fully alleviate symptoms. Conservative management is best suited for those seeking temporary or symptom-based relief.

2. Septal Button

For patients whose symptoms are not adequately managed by conservative methods, a septal button may be recommended. This is a non-surgical option that involves placing a prosthetic device inside the nose to physically close the perforation. Benefits and limitations include:

• Benefits:

  • Provides immediate relief by sealing the perforation and reducing airflow through the hole.
  • Can be an effective temporary solution for those who are not candidates for surgery or who prefer to avoid surgical intervention.

• Limitations:

  • Septal buttons may cause discomfort and require periodic replacement.
  • There is a risk of infection or irritation, and some patients may not tolerate the device well.
  • It is a mechanical solution that does not promote natural healing of the septum.

3. Surgical Repair

Surgical intervention is considered the definitive treatment for septal perforations, particularly for larger or more symptomatic holes that do not respond well to conservative treatments or septal buttons. Surgical options include:

• Endoscopic Repair:

  • Minimally invasive approach using a nasal endoscope.
  • Suitable for small to moderate perforations.
  • The surgeon uses tissue grafts, often harvested from the patient’s own nasal lining or from other areas like the ear or rib, to close the perforation.

• Open Septal Reconstruction:

  • This approach is used for larger perforations or when a previous endoscopic repair has failed.
  • Involves making an external incision and lifting the nasal skin to access the perforation.
  • Surgeons use tissue flaps and grafts to close the hole and may reinforce the septum with additional cartilage or bone grafts.

• Cartilage Grafting:

  • A graft, typically from the patient’s ear, rib, or septum, is used to fill in the perforation and restore structural integrity.
  • This method helps in rebuilding the nasal septum and provides long-term relief.

• Combination Techniques:

  • In some cases, a combination of techniques may be used, depending on the complexity of the perforation and the patient’s anatomy.
  • The goal is to ensure a robust repair, minimize scarring, and preserve or enhance nasal function.

Choosing the Right Treatment

The choice of treatment depends on multiple factors, including the size and location of the perforation, the severity of symptoms, patient preference, and overall health.

An evaluation by an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist or a plastic surgeon with experience in nasal surgery is essential for developing a personalized treatment plan.

While conservative management and septal buttons offer temporary or non-surgical options, surgical repair provides the most effective long-term solution for restoring nasal function and comfort. Each patient’s needs and goals should be carefully considered when deciding on the best approach to manage or repair a nasal perforation.

View Before and After Photos of Septal Perforation Surgery on Instagram

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Is there a difference between a male and female rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty, commonly known as a “nose job,” is a highly individualized procedure, designed to meet the specific goals and aesthetic preferences of each patient. While the fundamental surgical techniques employed are largely similar across genders, there are nuanced differences in the approach and aesthetic principles applied to male and female rhinoplasty.

Gender-Specific Considerations in Rhinoplasty

The distinction between male and female rhinoplasty is not so much about the surgical technique itself but rather the artistic vision and cultural aesthetic standards traditionally associated with masculine and feminine noses. These guiding principles help surgeons create outcomes that align with the patient’s desired look while maintaining facial harmony.

1. Female Rhinoplasty Characteristics:

   • Bridge Contour: Female rhinoplasty often involves more reduction of the nasal bridge to create a softer and more refined appearance. This can include smoothing a dorsal hump or narrowing the width of the bridge.
   • Tip Rotation and Definition: A higher degree of tip rotation (the upward angle of the nose tip) is generally preferred in female rhinoplasty to create a more delicate and uplifted appearance. Enhanced tip definition, which makes the tip more sculpted and refined, is also a common goal.
   • Subtle Feminization: The overall goal is often to achieve a nose that complements other feminine facial features, such as fuller lips or a smaller jawline, without appearing overdone.

2. Male Rhinoplasty Characteristics:

   • Bridge Integrity: In male rhinoplasty, maintaining a stronger, straighter bridge is often prioritized to preserve a more masculine profile. Men typically prefer less reduction in bridge height and less narrowing.
   • Tip Position: The tip rotation is usually less pronounced, avoiding an overly upturned nose that could be perceived as feminine. The goal is to maintain a more defined, yet natural-looking, nasal tip.
   • Subtle Masculinization: The emphasis is on enhancing or preserving features that convey strength and balance with other masculine facial elements, such as a broader forehead or a more prominent chin.

Tailored Approaches for Unique Outcomes

It’s essential to note that these gender-specific guidelines are not absolute. Each rhinoplasty should be customized to suit the patient’s unique facial features, gender identity, and personal aesthetic preferences. As societal views on gender and beauty evolve, more patients are seeking results that align with their individual vision rather than conforming strictly to traditional norms. For example, some men may desire a softer nasal profile, while some women may prefer a stronger, more defined look.

The Importance of a Skilled Surgeon

Regardless of gender, successful rhinoplasty outcomes hinge on the surgeon’s ability to assess the patient’s facial anatomy and understand their aesthetic goals. A skilled surgeon will ensure that any modifications to the nose harmonize with the rest of the face, creating a balanced and natural appearance. This personalized approach is key to achieving satisfying results, whether the patient desires subtle refinement or a more dramatic transformation.

Ultimately, the distinction between male and female rhinoplasty lies in the aesthetic goals rather than the technical execution of the procedure. A personalized consultation with an experienced rhinoplasty surgeon is crucial to discuss individual desires and to develop a surgical plan that delivers the desired look while respecting the patient’s unique facial structure and personal identity.

What are some things to consider when performing female rhinoplasty?

Compared to male rhinoplasty, the desired nose for female patients often tends to be smaller, shorter, and less prominent. Women also typically have thinner skin, which is an important variable to consider when performing the procedure. In most cases, female patients want the tip of their nose to be slightly upturned with relatively more definition. The desired result will also often have a slimmer, more concave nasal bridge.

See More Before and After Patient Photos

What are some things to consider when performing a rhinoplasty on a male?

Dr. Mourad is highly skilled and experienced in functional and aesthetic rhinoplasty for both men and women. He performs more than 100 rhinoplasty surgeries a year, including reconstructive nasal procedures. With the added expertise that results from this level of volume, Dr. Mourad is highly qualified to provide individualized care to his patients.

Explore Rhinoplasty Patient Photos on Instagram

ENT Expert Opinion Podcast

Dr. Moustafa Mourad was recently featured on ENT Expert Opinion Podcast with host, Dr. Niall Jefferson.

An audio podcast for Otolaryngology Ear Nose and Throat, Head and Neck Surgery. This podcast is designed as an learning tool. A direct way to update clinicians on all things ENT.

Dr. Mourad and Dr. Jefferson discussed the clinical assessment of oral cavity cancer.

To learn more about Dr. Niall Jefferson, go here: https://entexpertopinion.libsyn.com/about

To listen to more of the ENT Expert Opinion Podcast: https://entexpertopinion.libsyn.com/

Podcast episode here:

https://entexpertopinion.libsyn.com/clinical-assessment-of-oral-cavity-cancer

We’re excited to present to you another incredible interview with award-winning plastic surgeon, Dr. Moustafa Mourad. As a double board-certified in head and neck surgery, as well as facial plastic surgery and reconstruction, Dr. Mourad & Dr. Davis are the perfect duo for an insightful conversation.

Tune in to this week’s episode featuring Dr. Mourad to learn all about cosmetic plastic surgery from two of the nation’s top plastic surgeons.

Are you interested in hearing more of The Plastic Surgery Revolution? Give us a follow on PodBean, so you don’t miss a beat!

Listen to the podcast HERE.