Rhinoplasty is an operation on the nose to improve the appearance and harmony of the nose on an individual patient’s face. In addition to augmenting, reducing, or refining the nose, Rhinoplasty in Houston can address any airway obstruction — all in one operation. These benefits are not only physical but generally result in improved self-confidence and self-esteem.

Surgical techniques

For nose reshaping surgery, our plastic surgeons employ two different techniques, based on patient needs: “open rhinoplasty” and “closed rhinoplasty.” The difference in technique lies in the placement of the incisions.

Open Rhinoplasty: A small incision is placed on the external part of the nose at the base of the nostrils. All other incisions are hidden within the nose. This surgical approach allows for direct manipulation of the nasal cartilages and bone.
Closed/Endonasal Rhinoplasty: All incisions are hidden inside the nose. Since closed rhinoplasty allows for complete concealment of incision scars, it can be a more attractive option.

Benefits of closed rhinoplasty

At Eisemann Plastic Surgery Center in Houston, our plastic surgeons achieve exceptional results performing closed rhinoplasty procedures. The benefits of this approach include:

No visible scars
Shorter recovery time
Less post-operative swelling

Most surgeons who perform rhinoplasty utilize the “open” approach, in which the incision is placed on the columella, the thin strip of tissue between the nostrils. Dr. Michael Eisemann and Dr. Bradley Eisemann are among the most experienced and well-trained surgeons in the region, and have extensive experience performing nose surgery with the “closed” technique, leaving no visible scar at the base of the nostrils
Open rhinoplasty incisions can be almost undetectable when performed meticulously. The incision allows for the skin and underlying soft tissue to be separated from the underlying cartilage and bone framework of the nose.

The first step in the decision about the surgical approach occurs in a consultation with us at our private, state-of-the-art Houston clinic. There are risks and benefits to each option, and it is our job at Eisemann Plastic Surgery to give you all the available information and help you understand the approach that will best achieve your aesthetic goals.

Before & After

Am I a candidate for rhinoplasty?

If you would like to improve the appearance of your nose, a nose surgery in Houston could be right for you.

A nose job in Houston can improve all the following aesthetic issues:

Remove a hump or bump on the nose bridge
Adjust nose tip projection
Alter nose size
Correct a drooping tip
Reduce nostril size
Reduce nostril width
Correct breathing issues due to valve collapse, septal obstruction, or turbinate enlargement
Correct a pinched nose tip
Correct nose asymmetry
Correct sinus disease

Revision rhinoplasty

Revision rhinoplasty in Houston is performed to correct any suboptimal result after a primary rhinoplasty. At Eisemann Plastic Surgery Center, our surgeons are often called upon to repair a previously failed surgery. These can include an uneven or asymmetric result, a collapsed nose structure, functional breathing problems, or a variety of other issues.

Between five to nine percent of cases will require revision nasal surgery to improve the appearance of the nose or improve the airway function. The need for revision may be associated with healing factors or cartilage shifts that occur in the time after surgery.

Advanced techniques for revision surgery

To address this problem, advanced techniques, including a specialized treatment called “extracorporeal septal reconstruction,” may be required. This surgery involves the removal of the septum, straightening the structure, and replacing it into the nose. Techniques using the Piezoelectric ultrasonic system will reduce bleeding and swelling, preserve the mucosal lining, and create precise bone cuts for manipulation and sculpting. Occasionally, a patient’s cartilage from the ear or rib may be used to assist in reconstruction.

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Why choose Eisemann Plastic Surgery Center for rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty is one of the most complex procedures in plastic surgery, and revision rhinoplasty is even more challenging. Dr. Michael Eisemann has specialized expertise, as he has achieved a rare level of training in nose surgery, and is triple board-certified in plastic surgery, facial plastic surgery, and ear nose and throat, head and neck surgery. He enjoys helping patients with challenging and complex revision surgeries. He is dedicated to assisting patients who have had unfortunate setbacks and finds performing these surgeries gratifying for himself and the patient.

Dr. Bradley Eisemann brings an exceptional level of skill to nose surgery. He is a board-eligible plastic surgeon and has undertaken specialized training in craniofacial plastic surgery at New York University, one of the leading plastic surgery programs in the country. This fellowship provided in-depth training in facial reconstruction and restoration for both children and adults.

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Septoplasty

The nasal septum is the structure that separates the right and left nasal passage. If deviated significantly to one side or the other, it may cause nasal airway obstruction and may alter the external appearance of the nose. Correction of this can be performed in conjunction with cosmetic rhinoplasty, or alone soley as a functional procedure.

To find out if you are a candidate for this procedure, schedule a consultation with Houston rhinoplasty surgeons Dr. Michael Eisemann and Dr. Bradley Eisemann. Dr. Michael Eisemann is a lecturer and publishes articles to educate others in his field of practice. He serves as an Assistant Clinical Professor of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at Baylor College of Medicine and an Assistant Clinical Professor of Plastic Surgery at the Weill Medical College of Cornell University.

Digital visualization: See the difference

To help you visualize your post-operative nose, we perform computer morphed simulations of your face to allow you to get an idea of what to expect after surgery.

The goal is to produce an aesthetically natural and attractive nose that is balanced and harmonious with your other features. The ability to view how changes in your nose shape will enhance your look is part of our process at Eisemann Plastic Surgery Center in Houston.

Rhinoplasty procedure

You will make choices regarding your preference for general anesthesia in the hospital or local anesthesia with intravenous sedation performed in our nationally accredited Eisemann Plastic Surgery Center. Our facility is accredited by the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities, Inc. (AAAASF). If you are healthy, this is often a more attractive option due to our high level of patient safety, convenience, privacy, and price. Those with significant medical issues are more safely treated under full general anesthesia in a hospital setting.

What is the recovery from rhinoplasty?

The first phase of recovery from rhinoplasty typically takes about two weeks. However, you should not confuse initial recovery with final results, as those can take months to become apparent.

After two weeks, the primary obstacles to seeing your results will be bruising and residual swelling. Once these disappear, your newly contoured nose will be completely visible.

The early stages of recovery

The first few days of rhinoplasty recovery can present the biggest challenges. For the first 24 to 48 hours, you will want to make sure you have someone with you to help take care of household necessities while you take time to rest.

It is not uncommon to experience a headache or to notice swelling around the nose during the initial recovery period. You can control pain with medications. For swelling, you should apply ice packs and avoid strenuous or excessive movements and head elevation. Any nasal packing will be removed on the first post-operative day. Dr. Michael Eisemann and Dr. Bradley Eisemann will provide you with a complete list of things you can and cannot do during this time to help ensure your recovery goes smoothly and as quickly as possible.

At your one-week follow-up appointment, splints, tape, and stiches are removed. At this time, many people feel comfortable returning to work, but this decision will reflect the requirements of your job. Based on Dr. Michael Eisemann and Dr. Bradley Eisemann’s recommendations, you may need to avoid strenuous activities for up to six weeks. Provided that you follow all pre and post-operative instructions, your recovery time should be minimal, and your final results amazing.

A reputation for excellence: Dr. Michael Eisemann and Dr. Bradley Eisemann

We are proud to offer our patients the highest level of expertise in Houston functional rhinoplasty surgery, with the following options:

In-office surgery with local anesthesia and intravenous sedation
Closed and open rhinoplasty
Piezo ultrasonic rhinosculpture
Nasal fillers for non-surgical rhinoplasty
Diced cartilage grafts
Graft harvesting from the rib, ear, and septum
Spreader flaps and grafts for middle vault collapse
Extracorporeal and intracorporeal septum reconstruction
Tip cartilage suturing technique with invisible graft techniques

FAQ

How do I select a nose surgeon?

It is not enough to assume a surgeon who offers nose surgery can produce consistently successful results. It is essential that you feel confident in a surgeon’s abilities before you commit to having your procedure performed. One of the first things to look for in a rhinoplasty surgeon is his or her training and certifications.

You should only work with a board-certified plastic surgeon with hospital privileges who can perform your surgery in an accredited hospital or surgical suite. Both things can play a significant role in your safety and final results. Your rhinoplasty surgeon should be willing to show you before-and-after pictures of patients who have been previously treated with both primary and revision rhinoplasty surgery. These pictures will give you a better idea of the type of results a surgeon can offer. In addition, this is a good time to make sure your ideal goals match that of the surgeon.

Your rhinoplasty surgeon should listen closely to your needs from the moment you walk in the door. He or she should clearly answer all your questions and honestly discuss things such as potential complications and rhinoplasty recovery. If you feel like a surgeon is not listening to you, or is incapable of producing your desired results, look for another surgeon. Consultations for plastic surgery are not commitments. You are entitled to continue searching until you find a rhinoplasty surgeon with whom you feel comfortable and confident. Make sure the surgeon truly enjoys doing this challenging operation, and that they are truly dedicated to perfecting their skill set.

Will my health insurance cover my rhinoplasty procedure?

Health insurance does not cover cosmetic rhinoplasty. Often, people combine cosmetic and functional procedures. Depending on your insurance company, the functional component of the surgery, such as the correction of a deviated septum or other breathing problems, may be covered.

How long does the rhinoplasty procedure take?

The duration of the procedure depends on the type of changes to be made and the surgical method (open or closed). The procedure typically lasts anywhere from one to four hours.

How long does it take to recover from rhinoplasty?

The first two days after the procedure are the most difficult. Any packing is removed the first post-operative day. After one week, tape, splints, and stitches are removed, and many patients can return to work. It can take up to six weeks to fully recover from a rhinoplasty procedure and return to strenuous activity.

Does the rhinoplasty procedure hurt?

During the procedure, you are under general anesthesia or IV sedation with a nerve block, so you will not feel any discomfort. After the procedure, you may experience some swelling and pain, but you can easily manage these symptoms with mild painkillers and ice compresses.

At what age can I have a rhinoplasty?

For a surgical procedure like a rhinoplasty which may affect the cartilage and bone of the face, it is important that your face be fully developed. For women, this occurs around age 14 or 15. For men, this occurs around age 16 or 17.

How much does rhinoplasty cost?

The cost of rhinoplasty varies depending on the extent and complexity of the procedure. During your consultation, Dr. Michael Eisemann or Dr. Bradley Eisemann will discuss this with you and provide a detailed breakdown of all surgeon and facility fees.

Is rhinoplasty worth it?

Ultimately, it is up to you to answer this question. A nose job can produce a dramatic change in a patient’s appearance and self-esteem. A successful result can be rewarding for both the patient and the physician. Many patients who undergo this procedure feel more confident in their appearance and state that they are more confident in their social and professional lives.

Rhinoplasty Houston