Nasal Reconstruction | Nasal Valve Reconstruction

What Is Nasal Reconstruction?

Injury, skin cancer, and other problems can leave the nose appearing disfigured while also leading to obstructed breathing. Nasal reconstruction and nasal valve reconstruction are surgeries that repair the function and appearance of the nose following trauma. For these procedures, surgeons must possess high levels of skill and artistic detail to create optimal outcomes for patients. The Rhinoplasty Society® is a nonprofit organization consisting of board-certified surgeons. They have experience in some of the most intricate procedures performed by plastic surgeons today.

How Is Nasal Reconstruction Done?

General anesthesia is usually provided prior to this surgery. As a highly complex procedure, nasal reconstruction can take several hours to complete. Your surgeon will employ various strategies to rebuild the structure of the nose in order to create a more pleasing cosmetic appearance as well as alleviate functional difficulties. Using either the open or closed rhinoplasty technique, an incision will be made in the skin, followed by adjusting the cartilage and bone. Skin grafts or flaps may be used to repair the form and function of the nose. If you have a nasal blockage that restricts your breathing, nasal valve reconstruction is often carried out.

What Can I Expect After Nasal Reconstruction?

If you have experienced trauma, injury, or other issues that have left your nose disfigured or have caused breathing difficulties, you may be a good candidate for nasal reconstruction. This procedure is also suitable for individuals seeking to correct a previous rhinoplasty or address developmental problems. Ideal candidates are in good overall health, non-smokers, and have realistic expectations about the surgical outcome. A thorough consultation with a board-certified surgeon is necessary to determine if nasal reconstruction is the right choice for you.

Nasal reconstruction is an advanced surgical procedure to restore the appearance and function of the nose after injury, skin cancer, or other conditions. Here are the key benefits of undergoing nasal reconstruction:

  • Improves breathing
  • Enhances appearance
  • Corrects previous surgeries
  • Boosts self-esteem
  • Customized procedures

Choosing a qualified surgeon, particularly a member of The Rhinoplasty Society®, is crucial to achieving these benefits. Their expertise in complex nasal surgeries ensures that patients receive the best possible care and outcomes.

Candidates for Nasal Reconstruction

Nasal reconstruction involves using specialized techniques to rebuild the nose after injury or trauma. In general, patients should seek a surgeon sooner rather than later in order to get the best possible result. There are a number of reasons why nasal reconstruction might be performed, such as repairing the structure of the nose following a car accident, physical altercation, nasal valve collapse, or for a developmental problem. Patients may also seek nasal reconstruction to revise the results of a previous rhinoplasty.

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Find a Rhinoplasty Surgeon

Nasal reconstruction can offer aesthetic and functional benefits. Whatever your goals and needs might entail, it is important to choose a skilled surgeon to perform your procedure. The plastic and reconstructive surgeons in The Rhinoplasty Society® have experience in complex nose procedures. As innovators in their field, they possess a deep commitment to aesthetic and reconstructive nasal surgery. To locate a Rhinoplasty Society member near you, please visit our Find A Surgeon directory.

How long after an injury can I get nasal reconstruction surgery?
Patients who sustain a traumatic nose injury can often undergo nasal reconstruction surgery right away. The sooner that a nasal reconstruction is performed after an injury, the better the outcome may be. When nasal reconstruction is performed to revise or correct the results of a previous rhinoplasty, it may be necessary to wait until the nose has fully healed from the initial procedure, which can take up to 6-12 months.
Will I have visible scarring after nasal reconstruction surgery?
In most cases, patients will not have visible scars following a nasal reconstruction, but this will depend on the extent of their injury and their overall functional or cosmetic concerns. Nasal reconstruction can be performed using either an open or closed approach, and incisions are typically placed either within the nose or at the base of the nose, where a small scar would be very easy to conceal.
Why does a nasal reconstruction take longer than a rhinoplasty?
Repairing the adverse side effects of nasal trauma, injury, nasal valve collapse, or a "botched" rhinoplasty involves a highly advanced skill set, including extreme precision, artistry, and a deep understanding of nasal anatomy. During nasal reconstruction surgery, the surgeon will likely utilize multiple techniques to meticulously repair cosmetic and functional damage, including bone or cartilage grafting, and others. Because nasal reconstruction surgery is an intricate, delicate, and extremely customized process, it is imperative that patients select a highly qualified and experienced surgeon to perform their procedure.
Are the results of nasal reconstruction permanent?

The results of nasal reconstruction are long-lasting, as surgery aims to restore both the structure and function of the nose. However, aging and natural changes in the body may subtly affect the appearance over time. A skilled surgeon will carefully tailor the procedure to provide long-lasting results.

Will nasal reconstruction change the appearance of my nose significantly?

Nasal reconstruction can alter the appearance of the nose to restore symmetry and correct deformities. A surgeon will prioritize maintaining a natural look that complements the patient's facial features. The goal is to balance both functionality and aesthetics to meet the patient's needs, which are discussed in detail during a consultation.

What happens if additional corrections are needed after nasal reconstruction?

While surgeons strive for optimal results during the first procedure, some cases may require minor revisions for fine-tuning. These touch-ups are typically less invasive and can address any lingering concerns. Open communication between the patient and surgeon throughout the recovery ensures that goals are met effectively.

*Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary from person to person. Images may contain models.