What is Preservation Rhinoplasty and how is it performed?
Rhinoplasty, commonly known as nose surgery, is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures aimed at correcting imperfections and enhancing the appearance of the nose. Various techniques and methods are available for nose surgery. Preservation rhinoplasty is one such technique, known for being minimally invasive and involving fewer alterations. In this article on Dr. Benyamin Rahmaty’s website, we will introduce preservation rhinoplasty as one of the most modern rhinoplasty techniques and provide you with its details. Stay with us until the end.
Minimally Invasive Nose Surgery
Minimally invasive rhinoplasty involves minimal alterations, resulting in a more natural-looking nose. It also offers a shorter recovery period and fewer risks such as bruising. For individuals who wish to improve the appearance of their nose but fear surgery or its outcomes, minimally invasive techniques are a better choice. When discussing minimally invasive nose surgery, preservation rhinoplasty is one of the recommended methods.
What is Preservation Rhinoplasty?
Preservation rhinoplasty is a corrective and less invasive type of nose surgery. Unlike traditional rhinoplasty, this method preserves the nasal structure as much as possible. In this advanced technique, the surgeon removes small portions of bone and cartilage to make the necessary corrections. Preservation rhinoplasty can address issues such as dorsal humps, deviated septum, crooked nose, and other nasal defects. The goal of this technique is to maintain the current structure while enhancing beauty and correcting imperfections, resulting in a natural and aesthetically pleasing nose.
The Difference Between Preservation Rhinoplasty and Traditional Rhinoplasty
You may be wondering what the difference is between preservation rhinoplasty and traditional rhinoplasty. Traditional rhinoplasty is a more invasive surgery that involves significant cutting and alteration of nasal tissues. Preservation rhinoplasty is considered a more conservative and minimally invasive approach that focuses on maintaining the nose’s natural structure. With this method, patients experience less bruising and swelling, and the recovery period is shorter.
Preservation Rhinoplasty Techniques
In traditional surgery, the surgeon cuts and separates bone and cartilage, interfering with the nasal soft tissue where blood vessels and lymphatics are located. In contrast, preservation rhinoplasty is performed in another part of the nose, avoiding interference with the soft tissues, which reduces the risk of complications with blood supply. As a minimally invasive and modern nasal surgery method, preservation rhinoplasty can be performed using either the open or closed technique, described below.
Open Rhinoplasty
In this method, an incision is made in the columella (the soft tissue between the nostrils) to allow access to the underlying structures. The surgeon then performs the necessary modifications.
Closed Rhinoplasty
In this technique, the incisions are made inside the nostrils, and the surgeon performs the necessary modifications. The limitation of this method is the restricted access for the surgeon to make extensive changes due to the internal incisions.
Ideal Candidates for Preservation Rhinoplasty
One of the most common questions about preservation rhinoplasty is who qualifies for this surgery. If you want to improve and correct your nose without major alterations in shape or size, preservation rhinoplasty may be ideal for you. It offers more natural results, shorter downtime, and fewer complications. Moreover, this technique can be performed on patients of various ages. However, before choosing preservation rhinoplasty, you should consult your doctor to discuss your goals and expectations. The final decision should be made after thorough consultation. Note that preservation rhinoplasty may not be suitable for individuals with complex nasal deformities or more severe structural issues.
History of Rhinoplasty
Preservation rhinoplasty is a relatively new technique that dates back to the early 2000s. Its concept focuses on preserving the structure and anatomy of the nose. Dr. Yves Saban, a French facial plastic surgeon, was one of the pioneers who developed the “low-pressure” technique aimed at maintaining the natural nasal structures. In the following years, other surgeons like Dr. Olivier Gerbault from France and Dr. Enrico Robotti from Italy further refined and developed the preservation rhinoplasty technique. Over the years, preservation rhinoplasty has continued to evolve and gained more popularity among patients due to its numerous advantages.
Advantages of Preservation Rhinoplasty
The main reason preservation rhinoplasty is considered one of the most popular nasal surgery techniques lies in its numerous advantages, which we will introduce below:
- Preservation of nasal structure and minimal changes in appearance
- Minimally invasive approach with faster recovery compared to traditional rhinoplasty
- Predictable results that meet patient expectations and reduce the need for revision surgery
- Less swelling and bruising after surgery with quicker resolution of side effects
- Maintenance of the nose's natural appearance and better harmony with facial features
- Improved nasal function by correcting issues such as septal deviation
- Minimal disruption of nasal tissues, preserving soft tissues containing blood vessels
- Reduced risk of rhinoplasty complications such as scarring, breathing problems, and post-operative deformities
Pre-Operative Steps Before Preservation Rhinoplasty
When you decide to undergo preservation rhinoplasty, the first step is to consult your doctor. Pre-operative consultations help you understand the expected results, necessary preparations, and possible risks. The following pre-operative steps are usually recommended by your doctor:
- Quit smoking at least 6 weeks before surgery
- Maintain a healthy diet
- Get adequate rest
- Arrange for someone to accompany you after surgery
- Avoid blood-thinning medications to reduce the risk of bleeding
How Preservation Rhinoplasty is Performed
This surgery requires general anesthesia administered by an anesthesiologist. During the procedure, an incision is made either at the columella (the soft tissue between the nostrils) or inside the nostrils. The surgeon then performs the necessary modifications on the nasal cartilage or bone, removing portions as needed. Finally, the skin is repositioned and sutured. The surgery typically takes one to two hours, and the nose is then dressed and stabilized with a splint.
Post-Operative Care After Preservation Rhinoplasty
Like any surgery, preservation rhinoplasty also requires post-operative care. It is essential to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. The following post-operative care measures are recommended:
- Stay at home and rest during the first few days after surgery.
- Keep your head elevated to reduce the risk of bleeding.
- You may experience some bleeding in the first days and should use a drip pad under your nose.
- Use the prescribed painkillers if you experience pain or discomfort.
- Attend all scheduled follow-up visits to monitor healing.
Examples of rhinoplasty
Recovery Timeline After Preservation Rhinoplasty
It is important to understand that the recovery process after surgery varies depending on several factors such as the extent of surgery, the modifications made, and the patient’s physical condition. Therefore, the recovery timeline may not be identical for everyone. However, a general recovery timeline after preservation rhinoplasty is as follows:
Swelling, bruising, and discomfort around the nose and eyes – a protective splint is placed on the nose.
Reduced swelling, bruising, and discomfort around the nose and eyes – the splint is removed.
Most swelling and bruising subside – slight swelling remains – daily activities may resume – avoid intense exercise.
Resumption of normal activities, including exercise.
Complete resolution of swelling – final results become visible.
Risks of Preservation Rhinoplasty
As mentioned earlier, preservation rhinoplasty is a minimally invasive and relatively low-risk surgery. However, like any surgical procedure, it can still carry certain risks and complications for some patients. It is essential to undergo this surgery with a qualified specialist at a reputable hospital or clinic to minimize these risks. Some potential risks and complications of preservation rhinoplasty include:
Bleeding
Breathing difficulties
Anesthesia complications
Excessive scarring
infection
Unsatisfactory aesthetic results
The Most Advanced Rhinoplasty Technique with Dr. Rahmaty
In this article from Dr. Benyamin Rahmaty’s website, we introduced preservation rhinoplasty as an advanced surgical method for correcting nasal defects, along with its benefits, procedure details, and other related information. As mentioned, preservation rhinoplasty is a minimally invasive technique, but selecting an experienced surgeon is crucial for optimal results.
Dr. Benyamin Rahmaty has a proven track record in performing rhinoplasty, blepharoplasty, temporal lift, Botox, fat injections, otoplasty, chin implants, and other cosmetic surgeries. With Dr. Rahmaty’s expertise, you can experience the best possible outcomes from various cosmetic nasal surgeries, including preservation rhinoplasty.