Rhinoplasty
Baltimore plastic surgeon, Dr. Jeffrey Schreiber, specializes in cosmetic surgery of the face and body including rhinoplasty (nose surgery.) Surgery of the nose, or rhinoplasty, is an outpatient procedure that reshapes the contour of the nose. This can involve the entire nose, from the bridge to the tip and nostrils. Breathing difficulties can also be corrected with surgery of the nasal septum inside the nose.
Reasons for Considering Rhinoplasty
- Remove a large hump on the bridge of the nose
- Decrease the width
- Narrow the nostrils
- Straighten the nose
- Improve breathing
- Rotate the tip of the nose up or down
Rhinoplasty - General Procedure
Rhinplasty is performed on an outpatient basis in a local surgicenter or hospital. The entire procedure takes about 2-3 hours, depending on the procedures being performed. General anesthesia is usually required for most rhinoplasties as Dr. Schreiber believes this is the safest form of anesthesia when working on the nose. Dr. Schreiber will then perform the rhinoplasty, and this may include any or all of the following procedures: removing or reshaping the nasal septum, placing cartilage grafts, narrowing the nostrils, and narrowing the width of the nose. Afterward, Dr. Schreiber usually places small splints inside the nose (not packing) to assist with healing in addition to a splint on the outside.
Rhinoplasty - Insurance Coverage
Insurance coverage for a rhinoplasty depends upon the specific type of insurance coverage (check your carrier for specific benefits) and upon the procedures to be performed. Traumatic deformities of the nose are typically covered, as well as breathing difficulties from a deviated septum. Visit with Dr. Schreiber to determine whether or not your rhinoplasty (nose surgery) is covered by your insurance company.
Dr. Schreiber performs rhinoplasties (nose surgery) at Northwest Hospital in Randallstown, Maryland, the SurgiCenter of Baltimore in Owings Mills, Maryland, Greater Baltimore Medical Center in Towson, Maryland, and at St. Joseph Medical Center in Towson, Maryland. All of these facilities are easily accessible from Towson, Baltimore City, Baltimore County, Pikesville, Ruxton, Lutherville, Howard County, Annapolis, and Washington D.C.
Rhinoplasty - Recovery Process
The recovery depends on the extent of the procedure perfomed, but the average recovery is one week off of work and two weeks of exercise. The splints inside and outside the nose are removed one week afterward. Any stitches placed are also removed at this time. Pain medicine and antibiotics are given after the procedure.