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If you’re considering rhinoplasty, or nose surgery, to improve the appearance or function of your nose, you may be interested in learning about an innovative alternative to traditional surgical methods: ultrasonic rhinoplasty. This procedure utilizes advanced ultrasonic technology to reshape the nose with less invasiveness, discomfort and bruising than methods using a traditional rhinoplasty instrument.
Ultrasonic rhinoplasty is a type of facial plastic surgery performed on the nose that utilizes ultrasonic waves to carefully sculpt and reshape the nasal skeleton and cartilage. This is done using a specialized device called the Piezotome, which creates high-frequency vibrations that allow the surgeon to precisely manipulate the nasal structure without causing damage to surrounding tissue. The result is a less invasive procedure with a shorter recovery time, as well as potentially less pain and minimal bruising compared to traditional rhinoplasty methods.
In structural cases, the use of ultrasonic rhinoplasty is a no-brainer. It allows for a more precise filing/rasping of the hump and the smoothing of the bones without injuring the soft tissues.
With the use of the ultrasonic device (Piezo) we are able to cut the bones with the highest precision under direct vision as opposed to breaking the bones with chisel and mallet as is done by most surgeons in the US currently.
The use of ultrasonic rhinoplasty allows for less swelling in open structural cases as less tissue trauma is caused. To obtain best ultrasonic rhinoplasty results you must be a good candidate.
The ultrasound waves allow for true molding and sculpting of the nasal bones as opposed to simply filing and breaking them. This sculpting power permits us to change convexities along the bridge and create desirable contours more accurately.
The use of ultrasonic waves allows for a less invasive procedure, resulting in less post-operative pain and discomfort.
The precision of the ultrasonic technique means less trauma to surrounding tissue, leading to a faster healing process.
Usually, the best candidate for rhinoplasty is someone who isn’t in love with the way their nose or facial appearance and/or has been troubled by one or more of its characteristics. More often than not, we’re talking about a nose that appears too large, droops, or has a prominent bump on top. Some other patients may seek treatment after an injury, or when they have issues breathing through the nose. Ethnic noses with a weak bridge, may benefit from augmentation rhinoplasty with diced cartilage with Dr. Saman’s technique using PRF to create excellent contours for Asian and African American rhinoplasty.
They generally are in good physical health and have realistic expectations for the outcome of the procedure. This type of nose surgery may be suitable for individuals seeking to correct issues such as a crooked nose, nasal hump, or other imperfections of the nasal bridge or structure. It is important to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon experienced in performing ultrasonic rhinoplasty to determine if this procedure is right for you.
Ultrasonic rhinoplasty is a minimally invasive surgical procedure and is considered safe when performed by a qualified and experienced specialist. Nevertheless, it is important for patients to be aware of the potential risks and complications associated with the procedure.
The most common risks associated with ultrasonic rhinoplasty include the following:
Patients will have the opportunity to discuss all of the risks and potential complications with Dr. Saman before undergoing ultrasonic rhinoplasty. We make sure our patients walk into surgery with the right information and well prepared.
The Piezotome device allows for greater control and accuracy in sculpting the nasal bones and cartilage, potentially resulting in more aesthetically pleasing outcomes. However, utrasonic rhinoplasty (Piezo rhinoplasty) is not for everyone, which is why consulting Dr. Saman and exploring the different options is a great starting point.
Other techniques may be better suited and create better results for different patients. A consultation with Dr. Saman (in his Manhattan office or virtually) is your best first step in starting your rhinoplasty journey.
During an ultrasonic rhinoplasty procedure, the surgeon will make small incisions inside the nostrils or at the base of the nose. The Piezotome device is then used to create high-frequency vibrations that carefully sculpt the nasal bones and cartilage to the desired shape. The procedure may be performed with or without the use of general anesthesia, depending on the specifics of the case and the preferences of the patient.
If you are considering ultrasonic rhinoplasty, the first step is to schedule a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon experienced in this technique. During the consultation, you can discuss your goals and desired outcomes, as well as any concerns you may have. Your rhinoplasty surgeon will assess your overall health and the structure of your nose to determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure.
On the day of your ultrasonic rhinoplasty, you will be given instructions on how to prepare, including any necessary pre-operative measures such as avoiding certain medications. The procedure will be performed in a surgical setting, and may involve the use of general anesthesia.
After the procedure, you will need to take time to rest and allow your body to heal. Your surgeon will provide you with specific instructions on how to care for your nose and manage any discomfort you may experience. Most people are able to return to their daily activities within a week or two, but you should avoid strenuous activities until then.
Dr. Saman is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon as well as a reconstructive surgeon with a particular clinical interest in rhinoplasty but also facial rejuvenation surgery. He is one of the few surgeons in the United States of America fellowship-trained in both head and neck oncologic surgery and facial plastic surgery. Before returning to New York City, Dr. Saman served as the Medical Director of Head and Neck Oncologic and Reconstructive Surgery in Dallas, Texas.
Dr. Saman has extensive training and experience with ultrasonic rhinoplasty surgeries in New York City as well as surrounding areas, although over 60% of our patients fly in from out of town.
Dr. Saman’s background as an ear, nose, as well as throat surgeon and a fellowship-trained reconstructive surgeon, followed by his international training in facial aesthetic surgery in the best clinics around the world (USA, France, Turkey, and Spain) and rhinoplasty, have provided him with a unique set of skills and vision that set him apart.
A Piezotome rhinoplasty (or piezo rhinoplasty) is a specific type of ultrasonic rhinoplasty that uses the Piezotome device to carefully sculpt the nasal bones and cartilage. This device is known for its precision and ability to minimize trauma to surrounding tissue, resulting in a less invasive and less painful surgical procedure compared to traditional rhinoplasty.
Benefits of a Piezotome Rhinoplasty include less pain, faster healing, and better cosmetic outcomes. Good candidates for this procedure are individuals seeking to correct issues such as a crooked nose, dorsal hump, a deviated nasal septum or other imperfections of the nasal structure.
While similar results can be achieved with traditional rhinoplasty, a Piezotome rhinoplasty offers the benefits of a less invasive procedure and shorter recovery time. It is important to consult with a plastic surgeon experienced in performing Piezotome rhinoplasty and familiar with the latest technologies and techniques.
Both ultrasonic rhinoplasty and traditional rhinoplasty techniques can be used to reshape the nose and achieve similar results. However, ultrasonic rhinoplasty is a less invasive procedure with a shorter recovery time, and may result in less pain and bruising.
One potential difference to consider is cost, as ultrasonic rhinoplasty procedures may be more expensive due to the use of advanced technologies. However, for some patients, the benefits of a less invasive procedure and faster recovery may outweigh the additional cost. It is important to discuss your options and potential costs with a qualified plastic surgeon.
It may be, due to the use of advanced tools and technologies. However, the benefits of a less invasive procedure with a shorter recovery time may outweigh the additional cost for some patients.
Open rhinoplasty occurs when the facial plastic surgeon makes an incision on the inside of the nostrils as well as on the outside of the columella, which is the external strip of skin that unites both nostrils.
Closed rhinoplasty procedure (also known as endonasal) is when all of the incisions are made from inside the nasal passage without any visible scarring externally. The majority of Dr. Saman’s primary rhinoplasties are endonasal.
Following your initial consultation, Dr. Saman will provide you with a complete list of instructions to help you prepare for nose surgery. Here are some things you can do to prepare ahead of time:
Initially you will be congested due to internal swelling. This generally resolves by month 3. In the long run, you can expect to breathe better than you did before your rhinoplasty.
When Rhinoplasty is performed from inside the nose (a procedure called closed or scarless rhinoplasty), there is no visible scarring at all. Also, when an open technique is used, or when the operation calls for the narrowing of flared nostrils (a procedure called alarplasty), the small scars on the base of the nose are usually not visible and heal very well. However, scarring is also influenced by each individual patient’s genetics and postoperative healing. A thorough consultation with Dr. Saman is crucial to discuss you scarring history to create the best treatment plan suited for your needs.
Generally recovery is divided into stages:
-Stage 1) The immediate postoperative period usually takes about 7-10 days. During this period you have a splint on. Dr. Saman rarely puts internal packin in the nose.
-Stage 2) This stage lasts about 3 weeks after Stage 1. During this time your swelling goes down at a rapid stage. You will be required to tape you nose to ensure the skin takes the correct shape. You will also need to avoid exercising. Your nose may feel numb, your smile may not be back to normal yet, and you may notice asymmetries and irregularities. Be patients, the majority of issues resolve by the end of Stage 3. In rare case you may need additional steroid shots. Avoid overanalyzing your nose in the mirror.
-Stage 3) 4-8 weeks postop: Swelling and bruising going down slows in pace. You will no longer need to tape your nose. Your breathing will start to improve. The nost is starting to slowly find some shape and contour.
-Stage 4) 2months to 6 months: Depending on the skin thickness, your nose is on its way to find its contours. Breathing is still improving. There may be areas of swelling or bumps inside the nose and some dissolving internal stiches. Crusting is getting less every day. Your nose is getting its sensation back slowly and may feel pins and needles or itchy.
Stage 5) 6 months and beyond: Your nose is finding its final shape. Usually around 12-15 months postop, you can expect to see the final result of your #SamanNose.
The duration of a typical rhinoplasty will depend on the extent of the changes being made to the patient’s nose. Generally a primary rhinoplasty with Dr. Saman takes around 2-3 hours. A revision rhinoplasty may take longer depending on the needed changes.
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