Rhinoplasty is a procedure that has been around for quite some time but what options are available to you if you only need to fix a small portion of your nose such as the tip?
Nasal tip plasty is a surgery that specifically focuses on the tip of the nose. To complete this procedure, your surgeon will only alter the cartilaginous tip of the nose without needing to touch the other areas of the nose such as the bridge.
Even though there is no bone involved in this procedure, operating on the tip is sometimes far more challenging than a regular rhinoplasty procedure. This is because the tip is such an important part of the overall structure and appearance of the nose so it’s important to get the procedure right the first time.
What Happens During Nasal Tip Plasty?
Patients who opt to undergo nasal tip plasty usually have a nose tip that is fat, square, droopyor crooked. This procedure corrects any defects by adjusting the tip elevation to create a more desirable angle between the nose and the lips. Nasal tip plasty can also be performed on narrow noses to raise the high points of the nose.
An open or closed approach can be taken with nasal tip plasty. A general anaesthetic is almost always used for this procedure because there is a high chance that the best rhinoplasty surgeon at Academy Face and Body will need to open the nose up to increase visibility.
During an open procedure, a small incision is made underneath the nose, between the two nostrils. Cartilage grafting and specific suturing techniques will need to be used to correctly sculpt the tip of the nose. In some cases, the tip can be accessed via the nostrils, which is when a local anaesthic can be used. Your surgeon will advise you on the best approach after your nose has been evaluated during your consultation.
Is Nasal Tip Plasty Purely Cosmetic?
Nasal tip surgery is definitely not always performed for cosmetic reasons, very often patients will require nasal tip plasty for functional reasons too.
When the nasal tip is too narrow or it begins to droop due to a lack of structural support, it can affect a patient’s ability to breath. By correcting the tip, your surgeon can also correct any breathing issues that you might be experiencing.
In some cases, the cartilage in the tip of the nose can be damaged during a trauma, which may also warrant nasal tip plasty.
If you are looking to make your nose more proportionate with the rest of your facial features, it’s best to consult with a plastic surgeon who will be able to tell you whether rhinoplasty will be required or if nasal tip plasty is sufficient for what you want to achieve.
Rhinoplasty is an incredibly delicate procedure so be sure to choose a highly-qualified surgeon who specialises in nasal tip plasty and has a proven track record too.