Rhinoplasty in AtlantaWhat is Nose Reshaping Surgery with Dr. Brian Maloney?

Rhinoplasty, also known as nose reshaping surgery, is a procedure that modifies the size, shape and proportions of the nose. When planned and performed by a trained and skilled facial plastic surgeon like Dr. Brian Maloney, rhinoplasty can not only improve the appearance of the nose, but also enhance facial harmony. Rhinoplasty can also be performed to address breathing or other functional problems caused by structural deformities. At the Maloney Center for Facial Plastic Surgery, Dr. Maloney utilizes his in-depth knowledge of the nasal anatomy and technical skill to satisfy the unique needs and goals of his patients. Additionally, Dr. Maloney has written textbook chapter on rhinoplasty and taught rhinoplasty courses around the world. With Dr. Maloney, Atlanta patients can expect to be treated with world-class care and expertise.

Understanding the Types of Rhinoplasty

Cosmetic rhinoplasty

This form of rhinoplasty focuses on changing the aesthetics of the nose. It can address a multitude of cosmetic nasal imperfections.

Ethnic rhinoplasty

Dr. Maloney has extensive experience treating patients of many ethnicities, including African-American, Hispanic, Middle Eastern and Asian. He takes into consideration each patient’s unique specifications to enhance their nose while preserving their ethnic heritage.

Teenage rhinoplasty

Dr. Maloney carefully screens teenage patients that wish to undergo rhinoplasty to address a lifelong cosmetic or functional issue of the nose. To be considered for rhinoplasty, a teenager’s nose must be fully developed. Dr. Maloney will make this assessment during your consultation.

Functional/corrective rhinoplasty

This type of rhinoplasty addresses structural problems caused by genetics or trauma.

Revision rhinoplasty

Also known as secondary rhinoplasty, revision rhinoplasty corrects unwanted aesthetic results or complications (e.g., structural damage that impairs breathing) that occurred during or after initial rhinoplasty. Revision rhinoplasty is a more challenging procedure than initial rhinoplasty due to the existing changes made on the nasal structure.

Are You a Good Candidate for Rhinoplasty

  • Nose size in relation to facial balance
  • Wide nasal bridge
  • Bump or depression on the nasal bridge
  • Bulbous, drooping, upturned or crooked nasal tip
  • Excessively large or small, or unevenly sized nostrils
  • Deviated septum
  • Enlarged turbinates
  • Saddle Deformity

In addition, candidates must be in good overall health and have realistic expectations. Dr. Maloney meets with patients individually to evaluate their medical history, examine their nasal anatomy and discuss their reasons for pursuing rhinoplasty. Using this information, Dr. Maloney designs treatment plans to meet his patients’ unique needs. He uses computer imaging to present possible changes. This allows the patient to visualize the enhancement before surgery.

Rhinoplasty Procedure Details

Rhinoplasty is performed as an outpatient procedure under general anesthesia. There are two main approaches to rhinoplasty: the open and closed techniques. With the open technique, the incisions are made across the columella, or the narrow strip of tissue that separates the nostrils. This technique results in a visible yet small scar.

With the closed technique, the incisions are made within the nostrils, so the resulting scars are hidden. Recovery is typically shorter using the closed technique.

The incision technique Dr. Maloney employs depends on the modifications being made. With either approach, Dr. Maloney will use the incisions to access the underlying bone and cartilage. He will make the agreed-upon modifications, which may include reducing, augmenting or sculpting the underlying bone and cartilage to improve the shape, size and proportions of the nose. Once finished, Dr. Maloney will close the incisions with dissolvable sutures and dress the treatment area with bandages. He may also place a nasal splint over the nose to protect and support the healing tissues and bone.

Aftercare and Recovery Details

Rhinoplasty recovery in AtlantaFollowing rhinoplasty, patients may initially experience swelling, bruising and minor discomfort. This is normal, and discomfort can be easily managed with prescription oral medication. Patients generally plan on taking one week off from work and other normal activities. During this time, it is important to rest as much as possible with the head elevated. Dr. Maloney and his team will schedule several follow-up appointments to remove the outer splint. They may suggest making changes to a patient’s recovery based on his or her healing progress. Dr. Maloney does not use nasal packing on the inside of the nose. Instead, he uses dissolvable sutures the melt away.

To learn more about rhinoplasty with double board certified facial plastic surgeon Dr. Maloney, schedule a consultation. Contact the Maloney Center for Facial Plastic Surgery by calling (770) 804-0007 or emailing our office today.