As a facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Ahn has received the most extensive training in cosmetic nasal surgery possible. Dr. Ahn has performed over 1,000 nasal surgeries and considers rhinoplasty to be the most challenging and rewarding plastic surgery procedure. Feel free to call our office for more information about a rhinoplasty in Westborough, MA.

	Understanding Rhinoplasty
	Dr. Ahn performs the surgery through small incisions at the base of the nose and within the nostrils. The goal of the procedure is to create a natural appearing nose that fits the facial proportions and ethnic identity of the patient. As such, Dr. Ahn follows meticulous attention to detail while utilizing multiple surgical techniques to shape and alter the framework of the nose.

Every year, half a million people who are interested in improving the appearance of their noses seek consultation with facial plastic surgeons. Some are unhappy with the noses they were born with, and some with the way aging has changed their nose. For others, an injury may have distorted the nose, or the goal may be improved breathing. One thing is clear: nothing has a greater impact on how a person looks than the size and shape of the nose. Because the nose is the most defining characteristic of the face, a slight alteration can greatly improve one's appearance.

Is Rhinoplasty For You?

As with all facial plastic surgery, good health and realistic expectations are prerequisites. Understanding nasal surgery is also critical. Since there is no ideal in rhinoplasty, the goal is to improve the nose aesthetically, making it harmonize better with other facial features. Skin type, ethnic background, and age are important factors to be considered in discussions with Dr. Ahn prior to surgery. During your consultation, Dr. Ahn will take photographs of you and show you the potential results of rhinoplasty using the computer imaging system. He will explain how the nasal structures, including bone and cartilage, can be sculpted to reshape the nose. Dr. Ahn will also recommend any additional surgery that might enhance the appearance of your face. Many patients have chin augmentation in conjunction with rhinoplasty to create a better balance of features.

What to Expect After the Surgery

Immediately after surgery, a small cast will be placed on your nose to protect it and to keep the structure stable for one week. Your nose will be stuffy and there will be bruising of the lower eyelids. Cold compresses often reduce the bruising and discomfort. The cast and sutures are removed at seven days. At that point, most people have minimal yellow discoloration of the lower eyelids. While most of the swelling goes away in the first 2-3 weeks after surgery, the remaining swelling takes longer to resolve, particularly in the tip.

Some activities will be prohibited in the weeks after the procedure. Sun exposure, exertion, and risk of injury must be avoided. If you wear glasses, special arrangements must be made to ensure that the glasses do not rest on the bridge of the nose. Follow-up care is vital for this procedure to monitor healing. Anything unusual should be reported to Dr. Ahn immediately.

Q-What is rhinoplasty?
A-Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure which can alter the shape and size of the nose, improving it aesthetically and creating better harmony with the other facial features. The goal of rhinoplasty is to achieve a natural appearing nose which is compatible with the facial proportions as well as the patient's ethnic identity.

Q-Who is a candidate for rhinoplasty?
A-Individuals looking to improve the aesthetic appearance of the nose may be good candidates for rhinoplasty. Some patients are unhappy with the nose they were born with or with changes which have occurred through age or injury. Others are looking to improve breathing. Patients considering rhinoplasty should be in good health and have realistic expectations.

Q-Are there any age restrictions for rhinoplasty patients?
A-Before undergoing rhinoplasty, the nose should have completed its growth which tends to occur around age fifteen or sixteen. There are some exceptions such as cases involving severe breathing problems.

Q-What will happen during a consultation for rhinoplasty?
A-During the consultation for rhinoplasty, Dr. Ahn will discuss the available treatment options including the benefits and the expected outcomes. He will consider your skin type, ethnic background and age when discussing the surgery and explain how the nose can be reshaped by sculpting the nasal structures. Photographs will be taken and used with the computer imaging system to show you the potential results. If necessary, Dr. Ahn may suggest additional surgery, such as chin augmentation, to help you achieve your goals and enhance your facial appearance. He will also address any questions or concerns that you may have.

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