What medical conditions can rhinoplasty correct?
Rhinoplasty techniques can be used to correct a nasal fracture or nasal valve collapse and can be combined with the correction of a deviated septum, enlarged turbinates, or endoscopic treatment of chronic sinusitis. The rhinoplasty portion is typically not covered by insurance if the surgery only addresses cosmetic considerations, such as correcting a large hump or wide tip of the nose. Although certain conditions, such as correction of a nasal fracture or treating a collapsed nasal valve, which involves rhinoplasty techniques, are covered by insurance. When a rhinoplasty procedure is combined with other nasal and sinus-related procedures, the cost is significantly reduced.
How can I tell if I have a deviated septum?
To determine whether your septum is deviated requires a medical evaluation. However, you may well be suffering from a deviated septum if your nose appears crooked and you have the following symptoms:
- Difficulty breathing through your nose due to an obstruction.
- Pain on one side of your face (the side that the deviation bends towards).
- Frequent nosebleeds.
- Loud, heaving breathing or snoring during sleep.
- Frequent sinus infections.
What cosmetic improvements can be achieved through rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty can correct a wide range of nasal flaws. In addition to deviated septums, issues that can be fixed include: bumps, size (too small or too large) and shape. Enhancements are achieved by surgically removing, rearranging or reshaping both bone and/or cartilage.
What does a rhinoplasty procedure entail?
Dr. Meek begins with a consultation and physical examination, during which you will outline your cosmetic goals in detail, aided by real before and virtual after photos. Rhinoplasty is an outpatient procedure, performed under general anesthesia. There are two main techniques:
- A closed procedure. In this approach, incisions are hidden inside the nose.
- An open procedure. In this approach, one incision is made across the columella, the tissue that connects the tip of the nose to the base.
Dr. Meek is experienced in both techniques and will explain which one will best achieve your desired results.
