Understanding Nose Job Terminology

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Considering Rhinoplasty?
Here are Some Nose Job Terms You Should Know –

Dr. M. Azhar Ali is a double board-certified, Detroit area plastic surgeon who has performed more than 7,000 plastic surgery procedures. He and his team offer the highest standards in nose job technologies and rhinoplasty surgical techniques – coupled with comfortable & compassionate care – to all of our valued patients.

In this article we set forth some of the medical terms you may hear or read about when considering nose job surgery.

However, the best way to understand these terms – and how they apply to your situation – is to schedule a consultation with Dr, Ali in his state-of-the-art Detroit area Medical Facility.

Nose Job Terminology

Alar Base Reduction

The “alar base” is the area of the nose that forms the nostrils. An Alar Base Reduction is a procedure to make nostrils smaller.

Considering Rhinoplasty? Here are Some Nose Job Terms You Should Know

Alar Base Reduction

The “alar base” is the area of the nose that forms the nostrils. An Alar Base Reduction is a procedure to make nostrils smaller.

Alarplasty

Sometimes also called “tip-plasty”, alarplasty surgery improves the tip of the nose, usually narrowing and defining it.

Bulbous Tip

This refers to a wide, oversized nasal tip with large alar cartilage.

Closed Rhinoplasty

Also called “endonasal rhinoplasty”, this is a type of nose job technique in which all of the incisions are made inside the nose, which hides any scars.

Read More About Closed Rhinoplasty HERE.

Columella

This is the central column of the nose separating the left nostril from the right.

Dorsal Bump

Also sometimes called nasal or nose “humps” or “hooks” – these are one of the most common areas of dissatisfaction with nose shape. The dorsal bump is caused by large nasal bones, a large septum cartilage, or both.

Dorsal Aesthetic Lines (DAL)

These are the visual lines that run parallel down the bridge of the nose – ideally the DALs will create a straight, smooth, continuous line from the forehead or top of the nose to the tip of the nose.

Edema

Edema refers to swelling of soft tissue – and occurs in any type of surgery. Edema will vary with the extensiveness of the surgery, but in nose jobs it develops more in patients with thick skin.

Front Droop

Front Droop refers to a drooping tip – sometimes also called a hook nose – where the tip of the nose droops below the rest of the nose. This may resemble a hook shape from the profile view. The medical term a front droop is tip ptosis.

Hanging Columella

When the columella (above) extends too far below the outer edge of the nostril it is called a Hanging Columella – which is most easily seen from a profile view.

Nasal Dorsum

This is the medical term for what is commonly called the bridge of the nose. It is roughly the upper two-thirds of the nose, and connects the tip of the nose to the face. The upper half of the dorsum is made of nasal bones, and the lower half of the dorsum is cartilages.

Open Rhinoplasty

Also called external rhinoplasty, this is a more complex type of nose job than closed rhinoplasty. Open rhinoplasty surgery exposes the nasal skeleton by incision on the columella – and requires an external incision that leaves small, visible scar on the nose that typically heals well with time.

Read More About Open Rhinoplasty HERE.

“Pig Nose”

This unfortunate term refers to over-shortening and over-elevation of the nose, typically from a poorly performed rhinoplasty that now requires revision surgery. It is an insensitive term that we do not use in our office – but is still sometimes found in the plastic surgery industry.

Tip Rotation

Refers to over-shortening and/or over-elevation of the nose. Sometime this is intentional, and as the patient heals, the tissues will begin to relax and gravity will pull the nose down. In other cases this can be the result of a poorly performed rhinoplasty that now requires revision surgery.

Pinched Nose

A “pinched nose” has excessive narrowing of the nose bridge that disrupts the preferred look of straight parallel lines down the bridge of the nose.

Polly Beak or Parrots Beak

The technical term for this is “supratip fullness” – and it is a common problem during recovery from a poorly done nose job. In this condition, the tip of the nose curves down much like a parrot’s beak – and it can be the result of swelling, excess tip cartilage, scar tissue, or insufficient support of the tip.

Primary Nose Job or Rhinoplasty

The first nose job a patient has – or any rhinoplasty on a previously un-operated nose – is the primary nose job. These are safer and easier surgeries than secondary or revision rhinoplasties, because there is no previous surgical scarring or damage to the cartilage, tissue or bone.

Secondary or Revision Rhinoplasty

This is when a patient requires a second nose job to correct a previous unsuccessful nose surgery.

Spreader Grafts

These are pieces of cartilage – typically taken from the patient’s own septum, ear, or rib – used to support and contour the nose. Spreader grafts can be used to achieve the desired appearance as well as to provide added support – and is used for both cosmetic and functional rhinoplasty.

Tip Projection

Tip projection is a measurement of far out the nose tip reaches from a line perpendicular to the face. A person can also have over or under tip projection.

It is typically considered ideal if (on side view) the tip of the nose is the high point of the nose and the nasal bones are lower than the tip. If the nasal tip is below the dorsal nasal profile it is an under-projecting or hanging tip. If the nasal tip is extended above the dorsal nasal profile it is an over-projecting tip.

Turbinate or Turbinal

These are the long, narrow, shell-like bones that run downward into the breathing passage of the nose.

Detroit Area’s Best Nose Job Surgeon

Dr. Ali will offer you a consultation so you can can understand what the best surgical options are for you. He will carefully explain all medical terms and make sure that you have an understanding of the best way to achieve the nose you’ve always dreamed of.

 

Schedule a Nose Job Consultation with a Detroit Area Rhinoplasty Surgeon: 248-335-7200

Who Can Get a Nose Job?

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Who is a Good Candidate for a Nose Job?

Good tissue and favorable healing responses are necessary for any surgery to be successful – including a rhinoplasty (nose job). A smooth clear complexion, firm nasal cartilage, elastic skin, and good general overall health make a person an ideal candidate for a nose job.

Who Can’t Get a Nose Job?

Certain hereditary conditions, however, can make an individual a less than ideal candidate for a nose job. Genetically weak cartilage or nasal bones, or skin that is too thin, too thick, or prone to scarring (such as keloids) can make a person a less than ideal rhinoplasty candidate.

Thick skin, for example, is difficult to shrink and sometimes doesn’t conform to the underlying framework of the new nasal shape – leading to limitations on what the surgeon can accomplish if the skin won’t contract.

Individuals taking immune suppressants, people with diabetes and/or bleeding disorders, and/or smokers typically do not heal as well and are more prone to infection and complications and should typically avoid elective surgeries.

Is there an Age Limit for a Nose Job?

There is not a specific age limit to have a nose job – but teens should not have rhinoplasty surgery until their nose has reached its adult size. This typically happens at about age 15 or 16 for girls. And, usually happens a year or so later for boys.

Dr. Ali will assess the patient’s nasal growth during a teen’s consultation to ensure the nose has stopped growing. Minors (under age 18) will, of course, need parental consent, as well.

Teenagers also need to have the emotional maturity to deal with the rigors of a somewhat difficult and painful surgical procedure – and the ability to fully comply with post-surgical care and recovery requirements.

They must be emotionally ready to deal with wearing the cast, a good week of nasal discharge and congestion, and the unsightly surgical swelling that can distort the nose for several months.

And teens must be willing and able to refrain from activities that could injure the nose while it is healing – including sports, bike riding, roughhousing, cheerleading, dance, etc.

That being said, for many young people the teenage years are an ideal time for a nose job. The young skin and body of a teenager heals quickly. And, for a teen who is extremely self-conscious about a misshapen or unattractive nose, a nose job can instill confidence in their appearance and help them enjoy the remainder of their high school or college years.

Can You Be Too Old For a Nose Job?

As with any surgery, good tissue, elastic/supple skin and favorable healing responses are necessary for a successful rhinoplasty. And as we age the skin becomes thinner and less elastic, and the bones and cartilage can become weakened.

So, for a nose job, there is not a set age that is “too old” – but rather the patients skin tone, cartilage strength and overall health must be assessed.

Also, while a nose job is a relatively minor procedure in terms of stress to the body – with any surgical procedure there is concern about the affect the surgery and the anesthesia, can have on the heart, lungs, or any underlying medical condition.

Can I Have a Second Nose Job?

Revision surgery is sometimes appropriate to touch up or repair a problem or imperfection from a previous nose job. However, in most cases, the risk of complex revision rhinoplasty is only justified for repairing a truly misshapen or poorly breathing nose.

A second nose job is considerably more complicated, far more costly, and often less effective than a first-time rhinoplasty — so your plastic surgeon will have to carefully assess the integrity of your nasal structures to ensure they can withstand a second surgery.

Best Detroit Area Nose Job Surgeon

Today’s nose job techniques are more advanced, safer, more accurate, and more effective than previous rhinoplasty surgeries. In the hands of a skilled board certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Ali, a nose job can successfully be performed on most people in good health with favorable tissue.

If you are considering a nose job, call Detroit area Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Ali for a rhinoplasty evaluation and consultation to see if you are good candidate.  He will assess your nasal structure, consider your appearance goals, and explain your surgical options  – to ensure that you achieve the best possible nose job results!

 

Schedule a Nose Job Consultation with Detroit area Plastic Surgeon Dr. Ali: 248-335-7200

The Rhinoplasty Recovery Process

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What to Expect When Recovering from Rhinoplasty –

While rhinoplasty – aka a “nose job” – is a serious surgery, it is also very common and safe surgical procedure. When performed by a board certified plastic surgeon, such as Dr. Ali, recovery problems are extremely rare and you are ensured beautiful, long-lasting results.

However, following the advice of your plastic surgeon after a rhinoplasty procedure is crucial to ensuring the long-term success of your nasal procedure! The information in this article is general in nature only to give you an idea what a person can typically expect after a nose job surgery. However, every surgery is different – so always discuss your procedure with your surgeon and follow their specific suggestions and recommendations for your rhinoplasty aftercare and recovery.

The First Week After Rhinoplasty Surgery

  1. Immediately after your surgery is completed, you’ll be given a small, aluminum frame to cover your nose. This will ensure your nose is protected adequately during the first week of recovery.
  2. In some situations the physician may need to use nasal packing to stabilize the nose after the procedure. Soft silicone splints can also be used to stabilize the internal structures of the nose during the first week of recovery.
  3. You will experience a bit of discomfort or pain after the surgery, however with the use of long-term anesthetic, discomfort after a rhinoplasty is very minimal. (Note that any significant increase in pain after your procedure is a sign to call your surgeon immediately.)
  4. Swelling will occur after surgery, so you can expect to feel congested for a while after. Your nasal passages may be partially or completely obstructed. However, splints can prevent complete blockage. To ease this congestion, you can take an over-the-counter decongestant with your doctor’s approval.
  5. To reduce swelling, keep your head elevated higher than your heart. Bruising and swelling are usually worse on the second day after your surgery, but will improve after that.
  6. For about 48 hours after your nose job, you will have a drip pad under your nostrils for nasal discharge. This will collect blood or excess liquid – which is normal for the first few days. Be sure to clean the drop pad every time you clean your nasal area.
  7. It is important to keep the area clean and free of blood and other liquids. Dip a Q-tip in hydrogen peroxide and gently clean the inside of your nostrils. You can then use an antibiotic ointment to prevent dried blood, with the permission of your doctor.

1 Week After Rhinoplasty

  1. Any external sutures used will be removed about a week after your surgery. If splints were used, they will be removed when your cast is removed.
  2. Keep the now exposed incision area clean by wiping it very gently with a Q-tip soaked in hydrogen peroxide, and apply an antibiotic ointment to the incision two to three times a day.
  3. After 1 week the pain and discomfort should have subsided substantially.
  4. It is normal to experience a temporary loss of sensation in the tip of your nose, upper front teeth and/or roof of your mouth after a rhinoplasty. Nasal surgery causes a temporary disruption in the nerves in this area. Over the weeks following surgery, all sensation should return to normal.
  5. Just as with numbness, your sense of smell may be altered due to disruption of some nerves during the procedure. You may notice a slight decrease or alteration in both your sense of smell and taste. However, after about a week, this should improve, as well.

What to Avoid After Rhinoplasty

  1. For the first month following your rhinoplasty, you should plan to wear contact lenses instead of glasses. Avoid resting your glasses on the bridge of your nose until your surgeon gives you the okay.
  2. Do not travel by plane for at least two weeks to avoid problems with sinus blockage.
  3. Avoid any activity that can accidentally jar or injury the nose, such as vigorous sex, sports, or athletic activities until your physician gives you the go ahead.
  4. Once the incision has healed, be sure to wear sunblock for 6 months after your surgery to avoid discoloration.

When to Call Your Doctor After Rhinoplasty

If you notice any of the following, it is important to contact your surgeon right away:

  • Fever exceeding 100 degrees
  • Unusual or excessive bleeding from the nose
  • Injury to the nose
  • Significant increase in pain that cannot be managed by prescribed medication

 

Best Rhinoplasty Surgeon – Troy Michigan

Rhinoplasty is a routine procedure, and if you follow all after-care instructions as provided by your surgeon, you should have beautiful, long-lasting results. If you ever have questions or concerns during your recovery period, don’t hesitate to ask your surgeon.

Schedule a Rhinoplasty Consultation with a Troy, MI area Rhinoplasty Surgeon: 248-335-7200

Best Nose Job Techniques: Structural vs. Excisional Rhinoplasty

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Differences Between Rhinoplasty (Nose Job) Techniques – 

Board Certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ali has performed hundreds of rhinoplasty surgeries – giving women and men the attractive and natural looking nose they have always wanted. Rhinoplasty surgery is truly part art and part science, in order to create an attractive nose that is still natural looking, as well as “structurally sound.”

In the early years of “nose jobs” the only way surgeons knew how to alter the shape of the nasal tip was the removal of skeletal tissue. This was called an “excisional rhinoplasty” – because cartilage was actually crudely cut away.

The results of these early, aggressive excisional rhinoplasties were not always pretty, and often lead to the nose becoming progressively deformed over time. Many celebrities, such as Michael Jackson and Joan Rivers, altered their appearance for the worse with overly-aggressive excisional rhinoplasty.

In this article we explain the difference between traditional excisional rhinoplasty and new techniques in structural rhinoplasty that can create a more perfect non-surgical-looking, natural-appearing cosmetic outcome.

Excisional Rhinoplasty

While the current trend in rhinoplasty surgery is gradually shifting toward cartilage preservation, many surgeons still practice excisional rhinoplasty with, aggressive cartilage removal (excision). Unfortunately the result can be deformities, some of which may not fully manifest for months, years, or even decades later.

In theory, just enough cartilage is removed to narrow the tip, but adequate cartilage is left to remain stable and prevent future nasal tip deformities. However, the degree of cartilage needed to maintain nasal stability is nearly impossible to determine at the time of surgery. As a result, eventually the remaining cartilage can buckle from skin shrinkage; or get pulled upward due to scar tightening, or both. And these ill effects can worsen over time as cartilage weakens with age.

Structural Rhinoplasty

Fortunately, there is now an effective alternative nose job technique to excisional rhinoplasty. Structural Rhinoplasty preserves skeletal support in order to avoid the complications of too much cartilage removal.

Instead of cutting, removing, and discarding large amounts of nasal cartilage – which can cause a collapse of the nasal framework – structural rhinoplasty utilizes repositioning and reshaping (folding) the tip of the cartilage to achieve a more attractive contour.

Because structural rhinoplasty “folds” rather than cuts off cartilage, it preserves the skeletal integrity. This dramatically improves the accuracy, reliability, and safety of the rhinoplasty.

In some cases, some tissue excision is still unavoidable – for example in removing a nasal bridge “hump”. However, reducing or reshaping the tip can now be accomplished with little or no cartilage removal. And the resulting tip shape is more natural, and much sturdier – with far less risk of airway collapse or progressive deformity over time.

Birmingham’s Best Rhinoplasty & Nose Job Surgeon

A successful rhinoplasty requires a skillful surgeon to artfully reconfigure the nose, while also ensuring that the attractive new nose will withstand wound-healing, disease, and aging – now and over time.

Dr. Ali follows the four R’s of structural rhinoplasty — Retain, Reposition, Reshape and Reinforce — to achieve the gold standard for contemporary nasal surgery.

If you are considering rhinoplasty, schedule a consultation with Dr. Ali to discuss your options. He will explain how he can give you the nose you have always wanted – attractive, natural looking – with the safety and long term benefits of structural rhinoplasty.

Schedule a Nose Job Consultation with a Birmingham Rhinoplasty Surgeon: 248-335-7200

The Best Age to Get a Nose Job (Rhinoplasty)

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At What Age Can You Get Rhinoplasty or a Nose Job?

Board Certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ali has performed hundreds of rhinoplasty surgeries – giving women and men of all ages the attractive nose they have always wanted. However, as with any surgery, ensuring that you are a good candidate for rhinoplasty is important.

In this article we explain who is and is not a good rhinoplasty patient

How old do you have to be to get rhinoplasty?

From a technical standpoint, rhinoplasty can be performed any time after the nose’s growth is complete. Everybody is different, but nasal growth is typically complete in girls by age 15 and in boys by age 16.

A person’s nose remains child-like until puberty when their adolescent growth spurt generates growth of the nasal skeleton. Usually no later than age 17, skeletal growth is complete and the nose will reaches its final adult shape. Dr. Ali will assess a young patient’s nose and determine if they have finished developing before scheduling a nose job.

However, it is important that a young person is also emotionally mature enough to be a willing and cooperative rhinoplasty patient. Rhinoplasty is a big decision that will affect the person’s appearance for the rest of their life and so they should possess sufficient maturity to make such an important decision.

With today’s emphasis on celebrities, social media and selfies many young people are unnecessarily hard on themselves in the search for perfection. A young person with an attractive and natural nose should not jump into a nose job, just to try to look more like a certain celebrity. Parents can help their teen be realistic about when rhinoplasty is worth the expense and the risk of surgery – and when it really isn’t necessary.

Additionally, healing from a nose job requires that the patient be willing to follow aftercare instructions meticulously, to ensure proper healing and avoid complications. This includes being willing to refrain from exercise or rigorous activities for up to a month.

Rhinoplasty younger than age 16

In some rare cases, rhinoplasty surgery may be performed at younger ages if a child has a severe functional impairment, physical malformation, or other medical condition dictating that rhinoplasty should not wait. For example, a nasal distortion can affect a child’s ability to breathe. In these cases insurance may also cover the procedure.

How old is too old for a nose job?

Some adults have always wanted to change the appearance of their nose – but simply were not in a position to afford surgery until a later point in their life. For many adults, this point arrives after their kids are out of college and have “left the nest”.

Other adults, however, may have had an attractive nose when they were younger which has not aged very gracefully. While the nasal skeleton stops growing after adolescence, the adult nasal shape is far from static and continues to change as we age. Sometimes the results are subtle, but sometimes nasal cartilage becomes thinner and loses its elasticity causing noses to lengthen and/or droop dramatically.

Other older patients seek rhinoplasty not only for cosmetic reasons, but also to help maintain or improve good breathing.

Whatever the reason, Dr. Ali can perform rhinoplasty on adults of all virtually ages – provided they are in good health, maintain a healthy lifestyle and have no complicating factors.

Like any surgery, however, cosmetic rhinoplasty becomes more challenging with age. Ideally rhinoplasty is performed between early adulthood and the forties.  However, many adults in their fifties have had excellent results with rhinoplasty surgery. Beyond age 60, due to decreased healing responses and thinning and less elastic skin, a patient should be carefully assessed to determine if the cosmetic results will still be optimal.

Birmingham’s Best Nose Job Surgeon

If you are considering a nose job, call Birmingham Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Ali for a rhinoplasty evaluation and consultation.  He will explain your surgical options for correcting imperfections in your nasal contours – and ensure that you achieve the best possible rhinoplasty results!

Schedule a Nose Job Consultation with a Birmingham Rhinoplasty Surgeon: 248-335-7200

Recovery Time for Rhinoplasty (Nose Jobs)

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How Long is Rhinoplasty (Nose Job) Recovery Time?

Board Certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ali has performed hundreds of rhinoplasty surgeries – giving women and men the attractive nose they have always wanted. However, many patients are concerned about, or have questions regarding, the recovery time for rhinoplasty surgery.

In this article we discuss how long rhinoplasty recovery takes, and how quickly you can get back to your normal activities.

Is there pain after rhinoplasty surgery?

Most patients that undergo the rhinoplasty procedure experience a mild pressure above the nose for about two hours after the procedure. From there on after, the patients do not experience any pain. The post-operative period is painless, although pain medication is usually given in case the patient has some discomfort.

What is the recovery like after a nose job?

Many people still erroneously have an outdated idea of rhinoplasty from the “original” nose jobs performed a few decades ago – which often left people looking like they lost a prize fight. Thanks to modern technology, today’s rhinoplasty surgery has a must faster and easier recovery period.

The recovery for rhinoplasty today is actually rather mild. You will be allowed to return home after the procedure. Some surgical swelling and inflammation is unavoidable with any surgery, but a good aftercare routine will minimize the inflammatory effects and swelling and optimize the cosmetic outcome.

You will typically be required to wear a nasal splint for the first 7 to 10 days after your rhinoplasty. After your rhinoplasty, you may have moderate swelling and some bruising around your eyes that could last up to two weeks. Everybody heals differently – and some people have very little swelling and almost no bruising. Others may have a “black eye” effect for a week or two.

Many patients ask Dr. Ali about the old-fashioned and uncomfortable “packing” that used to be associated with nose jobs. In the vast majority of today’s rhinoplasty surgeries “packing” the nasal passages is no longer required.

When can I resume activities after rhinoplasty?

Dr. Ali will advise you know when it is safe for you to return to your daily activities. Rest and relaxation are strongly advised during the first week after surgery to facilitate recovery, as well as minimize bruising and swelling.

In most cases, a patient should also avoid strenuous activity for up to four weeks after your surgery. This is important for a number of reasons. In addition to not wanting to disrupt or shift the nasal bones or cartilage before they heal into place, it is also essential to keep your blood pressure from rising – which can cause nosebleeds and aggravate swelling.

Typically patients can begin easing into gentle or moderate exercise three weeks after having the surgery, waiting four to six weeks to attempt anything vigorous or strenuous.

Patients are generally able to return to work about one week after the rhinoplasty procedure, at most jobs. However, if your jobs requires physical exertion you may need an additional two or three weeks before returning to full work activity.

Can I wear glasses after a nose job?

You can wear your eye glasses on top of your splint or cast during your first week of recovery. However, once the cast is removed you should avoid wearing glasses directly on your nose for up to six weeks after surgery. This includes sunglasses!

This is because the weight of your glasses can shift your healing nasal bones and cartilage before they heal into place.

However, in cases where a controlled bone fracture wasn’t performed during the rhinoplasty, a patient can typically wear glasses at any time. If you wear glasses (or sunglasses) Dr. Ali will advise you specifically when you can resume wearing them.

Birmingham’s Best Nose Job Surgeon

If you are considering a nose job, call Birmingham Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Ali for a rhinoplasty evaluation and consultation.  He will explain your surgical options for correcting imperfections in your nasal contours – and ensure that you achieve the best possible rhinoplasty results!

Schedule a Nose Job Consultation with a Birmingham Rhinoplasty Surgeon: 248-335-7200

Medical Benefits of Rhinoplasty

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Rhinoplasty Offers Cosmetic and Medical Benefits

When most people think of a “nose job” they assume it is strictly a cosmetic procedure. But rhinoplasty is much more than just a remedy for living with a nose that leaves you unhappy when looking in the mirror.  When performed by a skilled Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, rhinoplasty can also have a very real and positive medical impact on your life.

Rhinoplasty: More than Just Cosmetic Surgery

“The most obvious impact of a nose job is that it can improve your appearance,” says Birmingham, Michigan plastic surgeon Dr. Ali. “An improved appearance can then lead to improved self-esteem, which can improve your quality of life. If you’ve been self-conscious of your appearance your entire life because of your nose, after surgery is finished, you may find a renewed sense of self and happiness. Because you feel better about yourself, you’ll feel more confident and feel a desire to improve other areas of your life.”

But a rhinoplasty can also help you live a better and healthier life.  A nose job not only improves the look of the nose, it improves its function, too. So if you have breathing problems or even sleeping problems, a rhinoplasty may be the answer for you.

Rhinoplasty for Breathing Problems

People often assume when someone says they have a deviated septum, it’s just a “cover up” for a nose job surgery. But deviated septums are a very real medical condition that can lead to difficulty breathing, seriously impacting a person’s quality of life.  In a patient with a deviated septum, the center piece of cartilage is deviated, or off center. It can occur due to an injury, but is most often genetic. Because the cartilage is off center, it can impede airflow between your nostrils and passageways.

Other patients may have narrowed nasal airways that lead to decreased oxygenation – this is not only uncomfortable but can lead to lethargy, lack of stamina and increased risk of infection. Breathing issues due to narrowed or obstructed airways may also lead to decreased sense of smell, frequent nosebleeds, sleeping problems, hypertension and even heart disease.

For many breathing problems, rhinoplasty surgery is the ideal medical solution – improving your health and your quality of life.

Rhinoplasty for Sleep Issues & Snoring

If you experience sleep issues, your nose and nasal passages (airways) are likely playing a big role in the problem. Loud snoring might be annoying to your partner, but it may also indicate a much more serious health issue for you. Loud snoring may indicate that you have an obstructed airway, which can be dangerous and shouldn’t be ignored. It may indicate a more serious condition, known as “obstructive sleep apnea” or OSA.

OSA is caused by poor nasal airways, and is characterized by stoppages in breathing in the middle of the night that can jolt you awake. Not only does it result in a restless night’s sleep for you, it is also dangerous. While some cases of sleep apnea are caused by throat muscles that relax too much, others cases are caused by a severely deviated septum. In these cases, rhinoplasty performed by a Board Certified surgeon can improve both your breathing, your sleep, your snoring and your overall health.

Rhinoplasty for Sinus Headaches

Rhinoplasty can also offer relief for some sufferers of sinus headaches. If sinuses don’t drain properly, you may think you are just constantly fighting colds, or blame it on allergies. But in reality, if your nasal passageways are not able to properly drain the mucus from your sinuses it can lead to pressure, sinus infections and severe headaches.

A skilled board certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Ali can correct a deviated septum and clear your airways and nasal passageways – providing lifelong relief from sinus pressure and headaches.

Best Birmingham Rhinoplasty Surgeon

“Many people may think a nose job is only performed to make someone look better,” says Dr. Ali. “And truthfully, if that is your reason for surgery, that is more than enough, because when you feel better about the way you look, you’ll also feel better about life. But, for many people, a rhinoplasty can offer relief from serious issues that affect them. The ability to breath and sleep better, and say goodbye to sinus pressure are amazing benefits that can greatly improve your life.”

Schedule a Consultation with a Birmingham, Michigan Rhinoplasty Surgeon: 248-335-7200

What You Need to Know About Nose Jobs and Rhinoplasty

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All About Nose Jobs & Rhinoplasty –

Rhinoplasty – also called nose reshaping surgery or a “nose job” – is the third-most popular plastic surgery in the United States. And while early nose job techniques and technologies were far from perfect – today’s modern nose reshaping procedures result in beautiful, natural looking noses.

The nose is the focal point of our face – giving us character and symmetry – and is a distinguishing characteristic. However, for those dissatisfied with their noses, there are several plastic surgery options available.

What Can a Nose Job “Fix”

For people who are dissatisfied with their current nasal shape, here are some basic structures of the nose that are most often modified:

  • The bridge of the nose: This part of the nose, where glasses sit, can be altered or reshaped to remove any bumps or abnormalities.
  • The tip of the nose : The angle and shape of the tip can both be modified to best suit the patient’s goals.
  • The nasal ala and vestibule: The overall size of the nostrils (nares) can be altered by adding or subtracting from the ala and vestibule externally and internally.
  • The overall nose size or shape: Many people are more concerned with the size or shape of their nose than the particulars listed above, and just want an overall change.

Regardless of the type of surgical rhinoplasty you’re considering, it is critical to consult with a board certified plastic surgeon beforehand to outline your precise goals.

Bringing in photos of the type of nose you’d like is helpful, as is a detailed description. After deciding on the ideal outcome, each patient should talk to his or her surgeon to decide which type of rhinoplasty is better: open or closed.

Open Rhinoplasty

This technique involves an incision on the external space between the nostrils, an area also referred to as the columella. This incision can let the doctor see the overall internal nasal structure. The patient’s own tissue will be used in this procedure for skin grafting. The surgeon will place sutures carefully after reconstructing the nose, allowing for optimal results. Afterwards, the nose will appear a more balanced facial feature and can grow naturally, using the patient’s tissue as a scaffold.

The major benefit of open rhinoplasty is that it requires a small incision that allows the surgeon to see the entire nasal structure during this procedure, enabling the surgeon to creates an outcome that will likely be closely aligned to the patient’s goals.

Read More About Open Rhinoplasty HERE.

Closed Rhinoplasty

This form of rhinoplasty is performed through incisions inside the nose. While it is more difficult for the surgeon to see the internal nasal structures, this technique may leave behind no external scars. It all depends on what type of nose the patient has, as well as the goals she has in mind. Excellent results can be achieved by experienced board certified plastic surgeons like Dr. Ali, who have performed hundreds of rhinoplasties.

Read More About Closed Rhinoplasty HERE.

Detroit Area’s Best Rhinoplasty Surgeon

Whatever your appearance goals are, Dr. Ali will offer you a consultation so you can can understand what the best surgical options are for you so that you can achieve the nose you’ve always dreamed of.

Dr. M. Azhar Ali is a board-certified, Detroit area plastic surgeon who has performed more than 7,000 plastic surgery procedures. He and his team are experienced and knowledgeable aesthetic care professionals, skilled in providing treatments like rhinoplasty. The skilled team at  Dr. Ali’s Plastic Surgery Center offers state-of-the-art technologies and surgical techniques – coupled with comfortable & compassionate care – to all of their valued patients.

Schedule a Nose Job Consultation with a Detroit Area Rhinoplasty Surgeon: 248-335-7200

 

Tummy Tuck Statistics

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Tummy Tuck Statistics –

Board Certified Birmingham plastic surgeon Dr. Ali has helped hundreds of men and women get the flat “abs” they’ve always wanted with Tummy Tuck surgery (abdominoplasty). While this is a common and fairy routine surgery, some people still have concerns about undergoing a surgical procedure.

In this article we share with you the most recent statistics on Tummy Tucks (abdominoplasty) – so that the numbers can speak for themselves.

When you look at the Tummy Tuck statistics, you will see that is a very common procedure – and one that is extremely safe when performed by a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon such as Dr. Ali.

Tummy Tucks are On the Rise

New Jersey plastic surgery consultants, Associates in Plastic Surgery, reports that the number of tummy tucks performed from the years 2000 to 2015, increased 104%.

According to a 2014 study published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery®, the official medical journal of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), tummy tucks are one of the most common cosmetic surgical procedure performed in the United States, with more than 117,000 procedures performed that year alone.

The ASPS went on to state that 97% of all tummy tuck patients were female, with 65% of patients undergoing the surgery in conjunction with another cosmetic procedure.

Tummy Tucks after Pregnancy or Gastric Bypass

It is estimated that almost half (44 percent) of tummy tucks are done in women in their 20s and 30s. The most common reason for tummy tuck surgery in this age group is to treat diastasis recti a common post-pregnancy problem in which the abdominal muscles, separate – resulting in a sagging belly.

But women aren’t the only one’s getting flat abs with abdominoplasty. According to the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, the number of cosmetic surgeries performed on men has increased more than 325% since 1997.

In fact tummy tucks were second only to liposuction for both men and women in the most commonly performed cosmetic surgery!

The second most common reason for undergoing a tummy tuck is skin tightening after a gastric bypass or other successful major weight loss. Almost all patients who undergo bariatric surgery end up with sagging skin at the end of their weight loss journey. In some cases, insurance will even cover all or part of loose skin removal after bariatric surgery – if it can be shown that it is  for “symptom relief” rather than strictly cosmetic.

Birmingham Michigan’s Best Tummy Tuck Surgeon

Birmingham board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ali has safely and successfully helped hundreds of women and men obtain the firm flat abdomen they have always desired with Tummy Tuck surgery.

When you schedule a consultation with Dr. Ali, he will carefully answer all of your questions – and explain what to expect before, during and after a Tummy Tuck in your unique situation.

Call Dr. Ali for a Tummy Tuck Consultation:  248-335-7200

Tummy Tuck vs. CoolSculpting

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Tummy Tuck vs. CoolSculpting –

Board Certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ali has performed CoolSculpting, Liposuction and tummy tucks on hundreds of men and women. In this article he discusses the differences between a Tummy Tuck and CoolSculpting – and explains the advantages and disadvantages of both.

Tummy Tuck vs. CoolSculpting: Anesthetic

CoolSculpting is a noninvasive procedure, performed without anesthetic – while a Tummy Tuck is a more serious surgical procedure typically performed under general (unconscious) anesthetic.

Because CoolSculpting does not require anesthetic, risks associated with anesthetization are avoided completely. And when performed by a board certified plastic surgeon, the risks from anesthetic during a tummy tuck are next to nonexistent.

Tummy Tuck vs. CoolSculpting: Procedure

Abdominoplasty (commonly referred to as a tummy tuck) is a cosmetic surgical procedure that removes excess abdominal skin and tightens the abdominal muscles. Tummy tucks result in minimal scarring and recovery time. CoolSculpting, on the other hand, results in neither

CoolSculpting is a noninvasive procedure that freezes and removes excess fat deposits. In a CoolSculpting procedure, there is no removal of skin. As such, once the fat is removed, the skin must tighten on its own. And unlike abdominoplasty, the CoolSculpting procedure does not tighten the abdominal muscles.

Tummy Tuck vs. CoolSculpting: Scarring

Typically, a full tummy tuck requires an incision across the lower abdomen. This allows the plastic surgeon to tighten the muscles and remove excess skin. As with any incision, this results in minor scarring.

Because CoolSculpting is nonsurgical, there is no scarring at all.

Endoscopic tummy tucks, (“mini tummy tucks”), result in significantly less scarring than a full tummy tuck – but, as they are still surgical procedures, result in more scarring than the scar-free CoolSculpting.

CoolSculpting vs. Tummy Tuck: Which is Better?

CoolSculpting is perfect for individuals who are at or near their desired weight, but who strugglewith specific stubborn areas of fat they cannot remove through traditional means.  CoolSculpting works best for people who have both toned abdominal muscles and good skin elasticity.

Additionally, CoolSculpting is not limited simply to the abdomen, but can be performed on plenty other parts of the body. These include the buttocks, arms, chin, thighs, and flanks (or “love handles.”)

A tummy tuck, on the other hand, is ideal for individuals who have lost elasticity in the skin of their midsection, or those who suffer from weakened abdominal muscles.

There are a variety of different tummy tuck procedures – including a full tummy tuck, a partial tummy tuck (dermolipectomy) an endoscopic tummy tuck, and even a “mini-tummy tuck”. Which procedure will be best for you will depend upon whether you have just loose or excess skin, just poor abdominal muscle tone, or both.

There are numerous types of tummy tuck procedures available. Whether you need a full tummy tuck, a partial tummy tuck (dermolipectomy), an edoscopic tummy tuck, or even a “mini-tummy tuck” will depend on whether you simply have loose or excess skin, weakened abdominal muscle tone, or a combination of the two.

Best Tummy Tuck Surgeon Birmingham, Michigan

When performed by a board certified plastic surgeon, Liposuction, CoolSculpting and tummy tucks are excellent procedures for getting the body you want.  Dr. Ali will carefully assess your skin, muscles and overall body to help you determine which procedure is the best for your body and appearance goals.

Dr. Ali has helped hundreds of women and men across Oakland County get the body they want with lipo, CoolSculpting and tummy tucks. He will be happy to offer you a consultation to help you understand your options and decide if liposuction, CoolSculpting or a tummy tuck is right for you.

And remember, financing options are also available!

Call Dr. Ali for a Tummy Tuck Consultation:  248-335-7200