McLean VA Rhinoplasty Surgeon

Rhinoplasty, one of the most performed plastic surgeries in McLean, VA, is designed to enhance the appearance of the nose. Given its central position on the face, the size and shape of the nose greatly influence an individual’s overall look. This highly sought-after procedure can transform the face, expertly crafted to enhance an individual’s unique beauty and redefine their profile.

Rhinoplasty can be performed for various reasons, including:
– Dissatisfaction with the natural appearance of the nose
– Distortion of the nose due to injury or trauma
– The desire to improve nasal function for better breathing

Goal alignment with your rhinoplasty surgeon is crucial. It is essential to select a specialist who frequently performs the specific rhinoplasty procedure you are considering and whose outcomes align with the aesthetic you wish to achieve.

During the initial consultation, I advise patients to bring photos of facial features they either admire or dislike. This helps guide our discussion towards mutually agreed-upon goals. During the visit, I take photographs of my patients and personally modify them to visualize potential outcomes, ensuring our plan is tailored for the best surgical result. I also recommend that patients take time after the consultation to thoroughly consider the discussed surgical techniques, postoperative recovery process, and altered images. Given the significant nature of appearance-altering surgery, it is imperative that patients are fully educated and informed before deciding.

The rapport you establish with your rhinoplasty surgeon may be the most critical factor of all. It is important to choose a surgeon you trust, who will listen to your concerns, and be accessible throughout the process. Although complications are uncommon, they are always a possibility with any surgical procedure. In the rare event of an unforeseen complication, having an open line of communication is essential to ensure you receive the necessary care. Thorough research is recommended to select the surgeon best suited to your needs.

Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure designed to enhance the appearance and/or function of the nose. Although it is generally not an emergency procedure, rhinoplasty can significantly improve your appearance and potentially enhance your physical health by facilitating easier breathing.

Determining who is a good candidate for rhinoplasty is usually straightforward. A patient who is in good health, has legitimate concerns about the appearance of their nose, and has aligned expectations with their surgeon is most likely to benefit from rhinoplasty surgery.

A functional rhinoplasty is typically considered medically necessary if one or both of the following criteria are met:

1. When a patient has a complaint of nasal obstruction affecting their breathing that is unrelieved using a nasal steroid spray for at least 4-6 continuous weeks and there is an anatomic issue with the nose to which this obstruction can be at least partially attributed.
2.  There is a history of nasal trauma from an accident, a visible nasal deformity, and a CT scan that demonstrates a fracture as the likely explanation for the deformity.

The rhinoplasty procedure commences with gaining access to the underlying bone and cartilage structures of the nose. This is accomplished through incisions made within the nostrils, complemented by a transcolumellar incision—across the strip of skin (columella) separating the nostrils. The bone and cartilage are then surgically reshaped by reducing, augmenting, or modifying tissues to achieve the desired nasal architecture.

In some cases, auricular cartilage may be harvested to assist in nasal reconstruction, requiring additional incisions in the outer ear. If the nasal tip is disproportionately large, the cartilage in that region can be refined or adjusted with precise suturing techniques. A dorsal hump on the nasal bridge can be reduced and contoured to create a smoother profile. When specific nasal areas lack volume, cartilage or soft tissue grafts can be utilized to enhance proportions. Furthermore, the nasal angles in relation to the upper lip or forehead can be altered by meticulously sculpting the nasal framework.

Upon achieving the desired nasal structure, the soft tissues are redraped over the newly formed architecture, and the incisions are meticulously closed using dissolvable sutures internally and removable sutures externally. A rigid external splint is applied to minimize postoperative swelling and to support the nasal structure during the healing process. Internally, soft, absorbent materials may be placed to stabilize the septum—the partition between the nasal airways.

While rhinoplasty typically achieves the desired aesthetic outcomes, it is important to recognize potential complications that may arise. These can include, but are not limited to: infection, bleeding, postoperative swelling, scarring, numbness, skin discoloration, nasal obstruction, palpable or visible irregularities, asymmetry, dissatisfaction with cosmetic results, and, in rare cases, psychological challenges or personality changes following surgery—even when the procedure is technically successful. Additionally, there is a risk of allergic or adverse reactions to materials used during the operation.

Aligning your goals with those of your plastic surgeon is critical. It is imperative to select a rhinoplasty surgeon in McLean, such as Michael J. Reilly, M.D., who has extensive experience performing the procedure and whose aesthetic outcomes align with your desired results.

McLean patients are advised to take time to carefully consider the discussions regarding surgical techniques, postoperative recovery, and any altered images provided. Undergoing rhinoplasty is a significant decision, and it is essential that patients are well-informed and fully understand the implications of the surgery before proceeding.

Michael J. Reilly, M.D., and his team are committed to working closely with your insurance provider to assess your rhinoplasty coverage eligibility.

Rhinoplasty performed solely for cosmetic purposes is generally not covered by insurance. However, if the procedure is intended to improve nasal function or correct a traumatic nasal deformity, partial or full reimbursement may be possible.

Insurance coverage for rhinoplasty depends on the underlying reasons:

• Medical Reasons: Rhinoplasty that is performed to correct functional issues such as breathing difficulties, repair a deviated septum, or address nasal deformities resulting from injury or trauma is often classified as medically necessary. In such cases, insurance may cover part or all the procedure.
• Cosmetic Reasons: Rhinoplasty conducted purely for aesthetic reasons, such as altering the shape or size of the nose to enhance appearance, is typically not covered by insurance.

While approximately 90% of the swelling following rhinoplasty subsides within six weeks, it is important for patients to understand that the complete healing process can extend up to a full year. In some rhinoplasty cases, the nose may initially appear slightly over-lifted, but it will gradually settle into its final position over time.

Overall, the recovery process from rhinoplasty is manageable for most patients and typically does not significantly disrupt daily activities. However, as with any surgical procedure, it is crucial to have a clear understanding of what to expect at each stage of recovery to ensure peace of mind. It’s important to follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions closely to ensure a smooth recovery and the best possible outcome from your rhinoplasty.