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Primary Rhinoplasty Upper East Side, NY

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What Is A Primary Rhinoplasty?

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A primary rhinoplasty is a comprehensive surgical procedure that focuses on altering the structure of the nose for cosmetic enhancement or medical correction. Patients often seek this surgery to modify the shape, size, or proportions of their nose, or to resolve breathing issues caused by structural abnormalities. It can significantly enhance facial balance and confidence while also improving nasal function.
 
The operation is typically performed under general anesthesia and may last from one to three hours, depending on the complexity of the case. The surgeon begins by making incisions either inside the nostrils (a closed technique) or externally along the narrow tissue strip separating the nostrils (an open technique). These incisions provide access to the nasal bone and cartilage that form the underlying framework of the nose.
 
During the procedure, the surgeon carefully reshapes or repositions bone and cartilage to achieve the desired contour. This may include reducing prominent features such as a dorsal hump, refining the nasal tip for better definition, or augmenting areas with cartilage grafts to achieve a smoother and more symmetrical appearance. The goal is to create a natural-looking result that aligns with the patient’s facial proportions.
 
After reshaping the internal structures, the surgeon repositions the nasal skin over the newly sculpted framework and closes the incisions with fine sutures. A protective splint is applied over the nose to help maintain the desired form and support the healing tissues during the first few weeks after surgery.
 
Most patients can expect an initial recovery period of about one to two weeks before returning to work or light activities. Swelling and bruising are common during this stage but will gradually fade over time. It may take several months for the final shape of the nose to become fully visible as residual swelling subsides. In some instances, minor secondary refinements may be required to perfect the result.
 
As with any surgical intervention, primary rhinoplasty involves some inherent risks, including infection, bleeding, scarring, or anesthesia-related issues. Your surgeon will explain these risks in detail and provide post-operative guidance to ensure the best possible recovery and outcome.
 
It is crucial for patients to maintain realistic expectations when undergoing rhinoplasty, as the healing process takes time and final results develop gradually. With patience and proper care, most individuals achieve a natural, balanced nasal shape that complements their overall facial aesthetics.

Who Performs A Primary Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty is a sophisticated surgical procedure usually carried out by a plastic surgeon with specialized education and extensive experience in facial plastic surgery. These surgeons are board-certified by esteemed organizations such as the American Board of Plastic Surgery or the American Board of Facial Plastic Surgery, ensuring they possess the necessary qualifications, training, and skill to perform the operation safely and effectively. Their understanding of facial proportions and nasal anatomy allows them to achieve natural, balanced results.
 
Alternatively, rhinoplasty can be performed by an otolaryngologist, or ENT specialist, who has completed advanced training in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery. These medical professionals, often known as Facial Plastic Surgeons, combine expertise in nasal function with aesthetic surgical techniques. Their dual focus enables them to correct both the cosmetic and structural aspects of the nose, improving its appearance while maintaining or enhancing proper breathing.
 
Because rhinoplasty is one of the most intricate procedures in facial surgery, choosing the right surgeon is absolutely essential. You should select a professional who has a solid reputation, extensive experience, and an eye for detail. During your consultation, it’s important to communicate openly about your desired results, discuss your expectations, and feel assured that your surgeon fully understands your vision. Establishing trust and comfort with your surgeon is a vital part of the process.
 
Lastly, rhinoplasty provides results that can last a lifetime, and the success of the procedure depends largely on the surgeon’s technical skill and artistic approach. By selecting a well-qualified and experienced specialist, you can feel confident knowing that your outcome will be both aesthetically pleasing and long-lasting, reflecting the highest standards of surgical excellence.
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What Is A Septoplasty, and Do I Need One With A Rhinoplasty?

A septoplasty is a corrective surgical procedure aimed at straightening a deviated septum, which is the thin partition of bone and cartilage dividing the nasal cavity into two sides. When this septum is crooked or displaced, it can obstruct airflow through one or both nostrils, leading to symptoms such as nasal blockage, breathing difficulty, snoring, or recurrent sinus infections. The goal of septoplasty is to restore proper alignment, improve breathing efficiency, and enhance overall nasal function.
 
Often, septoplasty is performed alongside rhinoplasty, particularly if the septal deviation contributes to an asymmetrical nose or affects its external contour. Combining the two procedures enables comprehensive correction of both internal and external nasal issues, ensuring optimal cosmetic and functional results. Addressing the septum during rhinoplasty also prevents post-surgical complications and enhances the longevity of aesthetic improvements.
 
The procedure begins with the surgeon making small incisions inside the nasal cavity to access the septum. Once exposed, the deviated sections of cartilage and bone are carefully adjusted, repositioned, or removed to achieve a straighter alignment. Afterward, the incisions are sutured closed, and soft internal splints are sometimes inserted to stabilize the septum and support healing.
 
Most patients recover well within several weeks, although minor swelling, nasal congestion, and tenderness are normal during the initial healing phase. Medications prescribed by the surgeon can help alleviate discomfort. While most individuals resume daily routines after one to two weeks, strenuous activity and heavy exercise should be avoided for a longer period to ensure proper recovery.
 
Discussing the possibility of a septoplasty during your consultation is crucial if you experience breathing difficulties or have a deviated septum. Your surgeon will thoroughly examine your nasal anatomy and determine whether correcting the septum will enhance airflow and complement your aesthetic goals, ultimately contributing to a healthier and more balanced nasal structure.
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Who Are The Ideal Candidates For A Rhinoplasty in the Upper East Side?

Aesthetic Complaints

Patients in the Upper East Side who are self-conscious about the external look of their nose may benefit significantly from a primary rhinoplasty procedure. Typical concerns include crookedness or deviation of the nasal bridge, large dorsal humps, a sagging or drooping tip, an overly rounded or bulbous nasal tip, an enlarged nasal shape, or flared nostrils. Even if breathing function is completely normal, many individuals choose rhinoplasty to enhance facial proportion and achieve a more balanced overall appearance. It is essential to communicate openly with your surgeon about the specific details of your concerns so they can design a treatment plan that aligns with your aesthetic goals.
 
Because altering the outside of the nose can also affect its inner structure, maintaining proper nasal airflow is an important consideration. An experienced surgeon should have the advanced skills and anatomical understanding required to refine the shape of the nose while ensuring that breathing remains unobstructed. The best rhinoplasty outcomes achieve both aesthetic enhancement and functional preservation, providing results that look natural and feel comfortable long-term.

Functional Complaints

Patients who experience breathing difficulties through one or both sides of the nose often have a combination of structural and medical factors contributing to the problem. A common cause is previous trauma, sometimes recent, but often from years ago, that may have altered the alignment or stability of nasal bones and cartilage. As people age, the internal and external framework of the nose naturally changes. The cartilage may weaken, the bones may lose support, and in some cases, continued cartilage growth occurs in an irregular manner, making the nasal passages more constricted. Additional issues such as seasonal allergies, chronic sinus infections, or other medical conditions can further aggravate nasal blockage and discomfort.
 
It is very important to have a comprehensive discussion with your surgeon about your symptoms and medical history. This conversation will help determine which aspects of your nasal problem can be corrected through surgical intervention and which may improve with medications, allergy management, or other non-surgical approaches. Many patients who seek relief from functional breathing issues also wish to refine the appearance of their nose, and both concerns can often be addressed safely and effectively during the same surgical procedure.

History of Rhinoplasty with Poor Results

Patients who have undergone rhinoplasty in the past may experience new or persistent concerns involving both nasal function and aesthetics. The extent of these issues often depends on what was done during the original operation. Over time, internal and external structures can change, particularly as scar tissue forms. This progressive scarring can distort the nose’s appearance and compromise airflow, making it difficult to breathe comfortably.
 
Older surgical techniques, particularly those that removed too much cartilage or used “cartilage cutting” approaches, can cause long-term weakening of the nasal framework. When key support structures are reduced or eliminated, the nose may gradually lose its stability, leading to deformities such as tip drooping, collapse, or asymmetry. In some cases, patients simply feel dissatisfied with the aesthetic results of their prior surgery and wish to make specific refinements or adjustments.
 
These situations are addressed through revision rhinoplasty, a specialized procedure intended to correct or enhance the results of previous nasal surgeries. Because revision work involves operating on areas already affected by scarring and tissue alteration, it is significantly more complex and carries increased risks, including bleeding, infection, or loss of skin integrity. Depending on what was removed or damaged during the earlier procedure, additional structural support may need to be rebuilt using free grafts or rib grafts to restore form and function. Patients considering revision rhinoplasty should understand its challenges and select a surgeon with substantial experience in reconstructive nasal surgery to achieve the safest and most effective outcome.

Preparation For A Primary Rhinoplasty

During your comprehensive consultation with Dr. Mourad, that lasts about an hour, he performs a full evaluation of your nasal structure and concerns. He develops a personalized care plan that aligns with your goals while determining any underlying causes that need addressing. When appropriate, he may recommend medications to help alleviate certain issues prior to surgery.
 
The appointment also provides time for you to explain and demonstrate what you find unsatisfactory about your nose. Using a small camera, Dr. Mourad can conduct a quick, painless internal nasal exam to view the structures and plan for optimal results. Once your customized plan is prepared, he and his team will explain each step to ensure a smooth, stress-free experience.
 
Dr. Mourad believes that caring for patients is a true honor. He devotes time to understanding their motivations and desired outcomes. His office environment reflects this commitment, a boutique-like space designed for comfort, warmth, and confidence throughout the process.

How Is A Rhinoplasty Performed?

The majority of nasal surgeries are carried out under general anesthesia at an outpatient surgical center, meaning you’ll return home the same day. On surgery day, Dr. Mourad meets you in the pre-op area, where he personally welcomes you and any friends or family present. He’ll take time to answer last-minute questions, review your procedure details, and confirm that the surgical plan matches everything previously discussed. This helps ensure you feel confident and relaxed before surgery begins.
 
Afterward, you’ll say goodbye to your loved ones and be taken into the operating room. You’ll gently fall asleep under anesthesia and awaken a short while later in the recovery area. Dr. Mourad will be there to discuss the outcome of your procedure and check that you’re feeling comfortable. You’ll stay briefly for monitoring before discharge to ensure there are no issues with pain or anesthesia.
 
When cleared to leave, Dr. Mourad provides a recovery “goodie bag” containing nasal sprays, healing ointments, and creams, everything needed for your post-surgical care and comfort at home.

Open Rhinoplasty

This type of nasal surgery utilizes a small incision made along the undersurface of the nose, specifically between the nostrils, allowing the surgeon to lift the skin and directly access the underlying anatomy. Once this is done, all the major internal components, including the nasal tip, bridge, and bone structures, can be carefully evaluated and reshaped as needed. Because this method exposes the full framework of the nose, it is regarded as the most comprehensive and technically advanced approach, offering the greatest potential for intricate modifications and detailed corrections.
 
It is generally performed on patients whose nasal concerns are significant, involving both aesthetic and functional problems. Those with severely crooked, oversized, or deformed noses can achieve substantial improvement through this method. Patients who suffer from major breathing difficulties due to structural irregularities of the nose can also experience meaningful relief following this type of surgery. The open approach provides the precision and control necessary to restore both the natural form and proper function of the nose in a single, carefully executed procedure.
Open-Rhinoplasty

Closed Rhinoplasty

During this type of procedure, the incisions are placed entirely inside the nostrils, keeping them hidden and leaving no external marks. The approach allows the surgeon to perform small, detailed adjustments to the nasal structure, especially around the tip area. It is commonly used to refine aspects such as the tip’s projection, rotation, and overall definition to create a more harmonious facial profile.
 
This technique is best suited for individuals who wish to address minor breathing issues or modest cosmetic concerns that are localized to the nasal tip. It is ideal for patients who want subtle enhancement rather than extensive restructuring. Because of its discreet incision placement and limited invasiveness, this approach promotes a smoother recovery while achieving natural-looking, well-balanced results.
Open-Rhinoplasty

Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty

This type of rhinoplasty involves reshaping the nose through the use of injectable fillers rather than surgery. By strategically placing these fillers, the surgeon can smooth out bumps, correct small asymmetries, or subtly enhance nasal contours. However, these results are temporary, as the materials used naturally degrade over time, leading to the gradual return of the nose’s original appearance.
 
While Dr. Mourad possesses the training and understanding to perform these procedures, he does not support their use. Injectable rhinoplasty carries potential risks such as local reactions, tissue damage, and, in some cases, necrosis of the skin. Additionally, these temporary fillers can pose challenges for future surgical rhinoplasty, as they may alter tissue structure and make long-term corrections more difficult. For patients seeking lasting results, traditional surgical methods remain the safer and more effective choice.

After Surgery and Recovery

After undergoing rhinoplasty, it is common to have internal nasal packing or splints in place. These supports are inserted by Dr. Mourad to provide structure and promote proper alignment as the internal nasal tissues heal. Think of these as an internal cast that safeguards the newly shaped nasal framework. Typically, these splints are removed at the first postoperative appointment, which occurs one week following surgery. Additionally, a small cast will be placed on the outer surface of the nose to control swelling and maintain stability. This external cast remains for about one week and is removed at your follow-up appointment.
 
To ensure the best recovery, Dr. Mourad generally advises patients to take at least three days away from work or strenuous activity. During this time, it is essential to avoid lifting heavy objects or engaging in intense exercise, as these actions could disrupt the healing process. Patients who wear glasses may need to adjust their frames or use support to avoid putting pressure on the nasal bones. Pain relief medications, healing ointments, and nasal sprays will be prescribed by Dr. Mourad to ease discomfort and promote optimal recovery.
 
At your one-week follow-up, Dr. Mourad will carefully remove all splints and casts. Some swelling will be present, and it is entirely normal for your nose to appear slightly swollen or uneven at this stage. The swelling usually starts to decrease within two to three weeks, though some patients may experience mild swelling for up to two months. To help manage this, Dr. Mourad often reapplies medical tape to the nose, which provides light compression and encourages the tissues to heal smoothly.
 
During your next follow-up visit, this tape will be removed. Dr. Mourad will continue to monitor your recovery during subsequent appointments, typically scheduled two weeks later and again at one month. His dedication to patient care extends well beyond the initial healing phase, as he continues to see his patients for long-term follow-up visits to ensure that their nasal structure and aesthetic results remain exceptional over time.

Will Dr. Mourad Perform A Rhinoplasty On A Teenager or Child?

Primary rhinoplasty is typically deferred until a person reaches at least 16 years of age. The reasoning behind this recommendation is based on natural growth patterns of the nasal structure. Throughout childhood and adolescence, the nose continues to grow and change as part of overall facial development. Performing surgery too early, before these processes are complete, carries the risk of interfering with normal growth. Such premature intervention could lead to irregular nasal formation or future deformities. The nose can be likened to a tent supported by both internal and external frameworks. When key structural supports are removed before the tent is fully stable, it may collapse or shift as it continues to grow, leading to unwanted changes over time.
 
That being said, some younger individuals may still qualify for rhinoplasty under very specific conditions. These might include cases of severe nasal obstruction, congenital abnormalities, or traumatic injuries that significantly impact function or appearance. It is critical to fully understand the scope of what can safely be achieved in younger patients and to seek the expertise of a surgeon experienced in pediatric and adolescent nasal surgery. Dr. Mourad offers compassionate care and comprehensive evaluation for such cases. He takes the time to guide families step by step through the decision-making process, ensuring that every consideration, from timing to expected outcomes, is handled with the utmost professionalism and care.
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