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Primary Rhinoplasty Upper West Side, NY

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What Is A Primary Rhinoplasty?

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Primary rhinoplasty is a specialized cosmetic and reconstructive surgery aimed at reshaping the nose to improve its appearance or correct functional irregularities. It is commonly performed for patients who are unhappy with the shape or size of their nose, or who experience breathing issues due to structural problems such as a deviated septum or nasal asymmetry.
 
This procedure is performed under general anesthesia, and the operation typically lasts between one to three hours, depending on the specific corrections required. The surgeon begins by making precise incisions inside the nostrils or along the columella to gain access to the nasal framework beneath. The surgical approach is carefully chosen to minimize visible scarring while allowing full control over the internal nasal structures.
 
Once access is achieved, the surgeon carefully reshapes the bone and cartilage to achieve the planned aesthetic and functional goals. This process can involve removing or smoothing nasal humps, refining the nasal tip, narrowing the bridge, or reinforcing weak structures using cartilage grafts harvested from other parts of the body such as the septum or ear. Each step is performed with meticulous precision to create a balanced and harmonious nasal shape.
 
When the modifications are complete, the nasal tissues and skin are carefully redraped, and the incisions are closed with fine sutures. A nasal splint is then applied externally to maintain the new contours and protect the nose during the initial recovery phase.
 
Healing time can vary, but most individuals can return to normal routines within about one to two weeks. Temporary bruising and swelling are normal and may take several weeks to fully resolve. Occasionally, a revision surgery might be needed to make fine adjustments for symmetry or aesthetic enhancement once the initial results have stabilized.
 
Like any major operation, primary rhinoplasty carries risks, including the possibility of infection, bleeding, scarring, or anesthesia-related side effects. Before proceeding, your surgeon will go over all potential complications, discuss realistic outcomes, and ensure that you fully understand the recovery process.
 
Final results may not be immediately noticeable, as the majority of swelling can persist for months. Gradually, as the tissues heal and swelling diminishes, the refined shape of the nose will emerge, revealing the long-term outcome of the surgery.

Who Performs A Primary Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty procedures are typically performed by board-certified plastic surgeons who have completed extensive training in facial plastic surgery. These specialists are certified by organizations such as the American Board of Plastic Surgery or the American Board of Facial Plastic Surgery, which ensures that they have achieved a high level of proficiency and adhere to the rigorous standards set by their respective fields. Their specialized expertise allows them to refine the nose’s shape while maintaining facial harmony and functionality.
 
In addition to plastic surgeons, some otolaryngologists, or ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctors, are also trained to perform rhinoplasty. Those who have pursued advanced education and hands-on experience in aesthetic and reconstructive procedures are recognized as Facial Plastic Surgeons. Their deep understanding of nasal anatomy and breathing mechanisms uniquely qualifies them to perform surgeries that balance both cosmetic and functional needs.
 
Choosing a surgeon who is both qualified and experienced is one of the most important decisions a patient can make. Rhinoplasty is a delicate and complex surgery that demands precision, artistry, and technical mastery. You should take the time to consult with your surgeon, openly share your goals, and ensure that you feel confident in their ability to deliver safe and satisfying results. The consultation process should make you feel heard, supported, and informed about every step of the procedure.
 
Since rhinoplasty is a lasting procedure, the final outcome will depend heavily on the surgeon’s experience, technique, and aesthetic vision. Entrusting your surgery to a reputable, board-certified specialist increases the likelihood of achieving a result that enhances both your appearance and confidence for many years to come.
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What Is A Septoplasty, and Do I Need One With A Rhinoplasty?

Septoplasty is a surgical procedure designed to correct a deviated septum, which occurs when the cartilage and bone dividing the nasal passages are displaced from the center. This deviation can cause nasal obstruction, making it difficult to breathe, and may contribute to chronic sinus infections or persistent nasal congestion. By realigning the septum, the surgery restores proper airflow and improves nasal function.
 
In many cases, septoplasty is performed together with rhinoplasty, especially when both the internal structure and outer shape of the nose require correction. Combining these procedures allows the surgeon to treat functional breathing problems while also enhancing the nose’s appearance. A crooked septum can interfere with the success of rhinoplasty, so addressing both at once ensures more balanced and lasting results.
 
During a septoplasty, the surgeon makes small incisions inside the nostrils to reach the septum. The crooked or displaced portions of bone and cartilage are then carefully adjusted or removed to achieve a straighter alignment. Once the septum is in the proper position, the internal incisions are closed, and soft splints may be placed to stabilize the septum during recovery and promote proper healing.
 
Recovery from septoplasty varies from patient to patient, but most individuals experience mild swelling, nasal blockage, or tenderness in the first week. Pain and discomfort are generally minimal and can be relieved with medication. Most people can return to work or light activities within one to two weeks, but more intense physical activities should be postponed until the surgeon confirms complete healing.
 
It is important to speak with your surgeon about whether a septoplasty may be beneficial for your situation. Through a detailed examination and imaging, your surgeon can assess the degree of septal deviation and determine if correcting it will enhance both your breathing and overall nasal structure.
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Who Are The Ideal Candidates For A Rhinoplasty in the Upper West Side?

Aesthetic Complaints

Individuals in the Upper West Side who are dissatisfied with the look of their nose may find that a primary rhinoplasty can effectively address their concerns. Common aesthetic issues include a crooked bridge, nasal asymmetry, large or pronounced humps, a drooping nasal tip, a bulbous or misshapen tip, wide nostrils, or an overall large nose that doesn’t complement facial proportions. Some patients seeking rhinoplasty have no breathing difficulties at all but simply wish to enhance their nose’s appearance for a more balanced and refined look. Having an in-depth discussion with your surgeon is essential to pinpoint exactly which features you’d like to change and to set clear, realistic expectations for the outcome.
 
It’s important to understand that adjusting the external appearance of the nose can also impact its internal anatomy. Therefore, your surgeon must possess the technical knowledge and precision to reshape the nose without disrupting your ability to breathe comfortably. A qualified rhinoplasty specialist will carefully balance aesthetics with function, ensuring that while your nose looks improved externally, it continues to perform properly internally.

Functional Complaints

Many individuals report difficulty breathing through one or both nostrils, a condition that can develop for various reasons. Often, it can be traced back to an injury or trauma, either recent or long past, that caused internal changes to the nasal structure. As we age, additional transformations occur naturally; the cartilage and bone of the nose can weaken, and sometimes continued growth of the cartilage takes place, leading to bending or twisting that obstructs airflow. These anatomical changes can be compounded by chronic health conditions such as allergies, sinus infections, or other inflammatory problems that further narrow the nasal passages and make breathing more difficult.
 
A detailed consultation with your surgeon is essential to identify all possible contributing factors behind your nasal obstruction. Understanding the exact cause helps determine whether surgery, medication, or lifestyle modifications are the most effective treatment options. For patients who are also unhappy with the cosmetic appearance of their nose, functional and aesthetic improvements can often be made together, addressing both concerns in one comprehensive procedure.

History of Rhinoplasty with Poor Results

Individuals with a prior history of rhinoplasty may develop a range of issues that affect both the form and function of the nose. The initial surgery, depending on the techniques used, may have altered the delicate balance between internal support and external appearance. Over time, scar tissue can form and gradually distort the nasal shape, leading to irregular contours or asymmetry. This same scar tissue can also narrow the nasal airway, resulting in breathing difficulties or a sense of nasal blockage.
 
Older rhinoplasty approaches that relied heavily on removing cartilage or using “cartilage cutting” methods often create long-term complications. When too much supportive tissue is taken away, the nasal structure weakens and begins to collapse with age, affecting both its look and stability. Some patients simply feel unhappy with their previous results and wish to refine specific features or restore a more natural appearance.
 
These circumstances often call for revision rhinoplasty, a more advanced form of nasal surgery performed to correct or enhance the results of earlier procedures. Because it involves working within previously operated tissues, it is considered more technically demanding and carries a higher risk of complications such as infection, bleeding, or skin damage. Furthermore, depending on the extent of prior modification, the surgeon may need to reconstruct missing cartilage using free grafts or rib grafts to rebuild support and definition. For the best outcomes, it’s essential to choose a surgeon who has specialized training and experience in revision rhinoplasty, as they can safely manage the complexities and limitations of these cases.

Preparation For A Primary Rhinoplasty

Your initial appointment with Dr. Mourad typically lasts about an hour, during which he takes time to fully understand your nasal concerns. He conducts a detailed evaluation to develop a tailored treatment plan suited to your needs. Throughout the consultation, he determines the precise causes of your complaints and may recommend medications to help manage your symptoms.
 
You’ll have the chance to express exactly what you’d like changed about your nose. Dr. Mourad might perform a simple, comfortable nasal endoscopy using a small camera to view the inner structures. This helps him map out an accurate surgical strategy. Once your individualized plan is designed, his staff walks you through every detail, ensuring a seamless surgical experience.
 
Dr. Mourad takes pride in forming genuine connections with his patients. He values the trust placed in him and approaches every case with care and respect. His office blends professionalism with comfort, creating a boutique setting where patients feel welcomed and cared for throughout their journey.

How Is A Rhinoplasty Performed?

Most nasal surgeries are performed under general anesthesia at a licensed surgical facility, allowing patients to return home the same day. On the morning of your surgery, Dr. Mourad will meet you in the surgical prep area. He’ll warmly greet both you and anyone who has accompanied you, review the procedure step-by-step, and ensure that every question is answered. This final discussion provides reassurance and confirms that the surgical plan aligns perfectly with your expectations.
 
When it’s time for the operation, you’ll part ways with your loved ones and be guided into the operating room. You’ll take a short, restful nap under anesthesia and wake up afterward in recovery. Dr. Mourad will be there to greet you, go over the procedure results, and discuss any immediate care instructions. You’ll remain in recovery briefly to monitor comfort and anesthesia response.
 
Before heading home, once cleared by the anesthesiologist, Dr. Mourad will hand you a recovery bag filled with essentials, creams, sprays, and ointments, to help promote smooth healing during your recovery period.

Open Rhinoplasty

An open rhinoplasty procedure begins with a delicate incision placed on the undersurface of the nose, typically between the nostrils. Through this small opening, the surgeon carefully lifts the nasal skin to reveal the inner structures of the nose. This direct visualization allows complete access to the nasal tip, bridge, and bony framework, enabling precise adjustments and comprehensive correction. Because it provides the highest level of surgical exposure, this method is considered the most involved and thorough type of nasal operation available.
 
This approach is typically reserved for patients requiring more extensive reconstruction or correction of complex issues, whether cosmetic or functional. Those with visibly crooked, enlarged, or misshapen noses, or noses affected by trauma or congenital deformities, often benefit most from this technique. Likewise, individuals experiencing major breathing difficulties stemming from internal structural problems may also find this approach ideal for improving both airflow and overall nasal contour.
Open-Rhinoplasty

Closed Rhinoplasty

The incisions used in this form of nasal surgery are entirely concealed within the nostrils, ensuring that there are no visible scars after healing. This technique enables the surgeon to perform delicate changes to the nose’s structure, particularly in the tip region. It provides access for fine-tuning elements such as tip projection, angle, and contour, allowing for precise yet subtle aesthetic enhancements.
 
This method is most appropriate for patients seeking minor improvements to the shape or function of their nose. Those with small breathing concerns or cosmetic issues limited to the nasal tip are often excellent candidates for this procedure. The closed approach offers a less invasive alternative that achieves noticeable refinement while preserving the nose’s natural external appearance.
Open-Rhinoplasty

Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty

Non-surgical rhinoplasty refers to the use of injectable fillers to reshape or contour the nose. This technique can temporarily adjust the nasal appearance by adding volume, smoothing uneven areas, or refining proportions. While the results can be immediately noticeable, they are short-lived, as the filler material gradually dissolves over time and requires periodic reapplication to maintain its effect.
 
Dr. Mourad is familiar with and trained in these injectable techniques but does not advocate their use. He cautions that such treatments may cause unwanted complications, including local irritation, tissue loss, or necrosis. Moreover, the presence of filler material within the nasal tissues can interfere with future surgical rhinoplasty procedures, making permanent and precise correction more challenging. For these reasons, Dr. Mourad advises against injectable modifications as a long-term solution.

After Surgery and Recovery

Following your rhinoplasty, the recovery process will vary depending on the type of procedure you underwent. Most patients will have nasal packing or splints placed inside the nose. These are carefully positioned by Dr. Mourad to stabilize the internal framework of the nose, serving as a kind of internal support system during early healing. They are generally removed during your first follow-up appointment, which is scheduled one week after surgery. In addition, you will have an external nasal cast that helps to reduce swelling and maintain the new shape of your nose. This outer cast typically remains for about one week before being taken off at your postoperative visit.
 
When planning for your recovery period, Dr. Mourad usually recommends that patients take a minimum of three days away from work to rest adequately. Avoiding any kind of heavy physical activity or lifting is strongly advised during this initial phase, as these actions can create pressure inside the nose and potentially affect the outcome of the surgery. Patients who wear glasses may also need temporary adjustments to prevent contact with the nasal bridge. Dr. Mourad will provide all necessary medications, topical treatments, and nasal sprays to ensure comfort and support proper healing.
 
At your one-week visit, Dr. Mourad will remove the splints and external cast. Swelling is a normal and expected part of the recovery process, so there is no need for concern if your nose appears puffy or uneven in the early days. Typically, swelling begins to subside within two to three weeks, although in some cases, minor puffiness may linger for up to two months. To help accelerate the reduction of swelling, Dr. Mourad may reapply medical tape to provide mild compression. This taping helps the nasal tissues settle more smoothly and promotes balanced healing.
 
During your second postoperative visit, the tape will be removed, and Dr. Mourad will assess the healing progress. Additional follow-up appointments are usually scheduled two weeks later and again one month afterward. Dr. Mourad takes pride in offering long-term care, often continuing to see patients for years following their initial procedure to ensure lasting satisfaction with their nasal results.

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

In most cases, primary rhinoplasty should be postponed until after the age of 16. This guideline exists because the human nose continues to grow and mature during adolescence and young adulthood. The nasal structure undergoes significant changes in size, projection, and contour during these years. Performing surgical alterations before growth is complete may disrupt the natural development process, potentially resulting in distortion, asymmetry, or abnormal shape formation later on. The anatomy of the nose can be compared to a tent that relies on multiple supporting poles. If those supports are weakened or removed too soon, the framework may fail to hold its proper form as it continues to expand and settle.
 
While most surgeons recommend waiting until growth is complete, there are limited situations where younger patients may qualify for primary rhinoplasty. These cases usually involve severe functional concerns such as chronic nasal obstruction, trauma-related deformities, or congenital irregularities that impact breathing or appearance. When considering surgery for younger patients, it is important to approach the matter carefully, taking into account both the physiological and emotional maturity of the individual. Dr. Mourad welcomes consultations with families exploring this possibility. He takes the time to discuss the benefits, risks, and timing of surgery to help parents and their children make the most informed decision possible.
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