African American Ethnic Rhinoplasty
How is rhinoplasty performed? First, small incisions are made inside the nose and the cartilage and bony of the nose is accessed. The majority of incisions are made inside the nose, where they are invisible. In some cases, an incision is made in the area of skin separating the nostrils. This incision is invisible when healed and leaves no visible scar. All unwanted deformities are outlined and marked for reshaping. Next, the underlying bone and cartilage are reshaped, added to, or rearranged to provide a newly shaped nose.
Dr. Hamilton uses special techniques that he has designed specifically for rhinoplasty patients who are African American that allow him to achieve excellent result for his patients. The soft tissues that cover the nasal bones and cartilage are then redraped over the new framework, sutured in place to prevent swelling postoperatively, and finally the incisions are closed. A splint is applied to the outside of the nose to help retain the new shape of the new nose while the patients heals. Occasionally soft splints that permit breathing post-operatively are placed. Recovery is 5-7 days. Most of the swelling associated with cosmetic rhinoplasty is gone within the first two weeks and the nose continues to refine itself for several months after the procedure looking better with time. Final results are typically achieve between 1-2 years depending on skin thickness and complexity of the case.
