Ethnic Rhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty is a common procedure done to improve the appearance of the nose and create facial harmony between features. For individuals of ethnic background, an ethnic rhinoplasty is commonly performed. The goal of ethnic rhinoplasty is to enhance the unique beauty of each client without changing the individuality of that client’s ethnicity. Dr. Walker understands that ethnic rhinoplasties should be approached differently from the Caucasian rhinoplasty, as he strives to create beautiful outcomes without sacrificing the unique facial features associated with an individual’s ethnic heritage. Dr. Walker’s office is 19 minutes from Downtown Atlanta and 12 minutes from Brookhaven.
What is Ethnic Rhinoplasty?
Ethnic rhinoplasty is performed on patients of various ethnicities, with the intent of harmonizing the facial features while respecting an individual’s ethnic heritage. Dr. Walker always considers his clients’ ethnic background prior to performing an ethnic rhinoplasty in order to fully understand the changes that need to be made in order to achieve the desired outcomes. As a dual board-certified facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Walker is renowned for his natural-looking and beautiful ethnic rhinoplasty results.
Individuals who choose to undergo an ethnic rhinoplasty usually do so in order to:
- Create better symmetry between the facial features.
- Build an improved facial profile.
- Achieve a noticeable improvement in their facial silhouette.
- Gain confidence in their facial appearance.
Who is a Good Candidate for Ethnic Rhinoplasty?
If you are unhappy with the appearance of your nose but would like to maintain the ethnic integrity of your look, you may be a good candidate for an ethnic rhinoplasty. This procedure can help correct many irregularities in the appearance of the nose including a nose that is too narrow or too wide, a crooked nose, a bulbous nasal tip, a bridge that is too high with a hump or too low, and much more. Individuals who are overall healthy and have realistic expectations for the outcome of their surgery are often happiest with their results. A consultation appointment is the best way to determine if you are a good candidate for this procedure.
How is the Ethnic Rhinoplasty Procedure Done?
The ethnic rhinoplasty procedure is highly individualized, and the exact techniques Dr. Walker will choose differs from patient to patient. However, rhinoplasty techniques generally include an open approach with a closed approach is possible in select cases. During an open rhinoplasty, a small incision will be created on the columella between your nostrils. Dr. Walker will utilize cartilage grafts from your nasal septum or a secondary donor site depending on what is best for you to create the desired shape and thereby improve your nasal breathing as well. Some patients need their nose made smaller (reduction rhinoplasty), while others need their bridge augmented (augmentation rhinoplasty). During his thorough consultation, Dr. Walker will review photos with you and formulate a customized treatment plan with you.
Ethnic Rhinoplasty Recovery
Ethnic rhinoplasty surgery is performed on an outpatient basis where you will go home the day of your surgery under the care of a responsible adult family member or friend. The recovery from ethnic rhinoplasty occurs in various stages. There is an initial 1- to 2-week period during which the bruising (if present) subsides and the nasal external and internal swelling improves for improved airflow. The nasal cast and sutures will be removed one week after your procedure, at which point in time you can let the water run over your nose again when washing your hair. Most clients experience some discomfort for the first couple of days that most patients can control with Tylenol although a small amount of prescription pain medication is prescribed to you in case you do experience some discomfort. You are encouraged to rest during the first week and to adhere to Dr. Walker’s thorough post-operative instructions including to a low-sodium diet, avoidance of strenuous activities, no nose-blowing, no straining with bowel movements, and avoidance of coughing if possible.
This is followed by a 4- to 6-week period of continued swelling resolution during which strenuous activities and salt/sodium intake are discouraged. The post-surgical period is almost over, and the detailed post-operative results are starting to become more apparent. There is still residual swelling on the nose, and this will change from day to day. Some days, the nose will look better than others, as the swelling continues to go up and down. This is especially true in individuals with thick nasal skin. The residual swelling is starting to decrease from top to bottom. The top of the nose (bridge) is looking more refined. Strenuous activities may be resumed after 4-6 weeks.
By the three-month mark at the latest, you have gotten used to the new facial aesthetic that your ethnic rhinoplasty has given you. Generally, most of the visible changes will have occurred by the 3 months mark although it really takes a full year or so for the final nasal shape to be present. Most clients no longer feel subconscious about their nose after 4-6 weeks and are definitely ready for wedding photos to be taken after about 2-3 months. The tip of the nose is usually the last area to completely “heal.” There may still be a small amount of fullness in this area after 3-6 months. Dr. Walker will closely monitor your healing throughout the recovery process with regular follow-up visits.
You will be able to enjoy full final results after about one year.
Schedule Your Consultation
If you are interested in learning more about the ethnic rhinoplasty procedure in Atlanta, contact our office today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Thomas Walker. During your consultation, you will meet and speak with Dr. Walker regarding your ethnic rhinoplasty desires. His main goal is to help you achieve facial harmony while embracing your ethnic heritage.
