Baltimore plastic surgeon Dr. Adam Summers of the Maryland Plastic Surgery Center has helped many Annapolis and Baltimore rhinoplasty patients achieve beautiful facial harmony by re-shaping the nose. A rhinoplasty typically involves reducing the size of the nose by removing and/or sculpting the nasal bones and cartilage to enhance the facial appearance.
A nose job is a three dimensional procedure. Dr. Summers is especially good with three dimensional procedures – he has even won several awards for his work with three dimensional medical illustrations. With a delicate hand and artistic-eye, Dr. Summers is considered to be a Baltimore and Annapolis rhinoplasty specialist, placing special care to ensuring each nose surgery patient achieves a well-balanced and proportionate nose.
Unlike older approaches, where a “cookie cutter” technique was used to give all patients the same nose, Dr. Summers utilizes techniques that makes the results of each rhinoplasty unique to the individual. The final outcome depends on patient desires as well as factors such as skin condition and thickness, nasal and facial structure, genetic contributions, and age. In general, having nose surgery provides the patient with a better facial balance and overall appearance.
A “nose job” or rhinoplasty procedure lasts from one to three hours at the Maryland Plastic Surgery Center. Dr. Summers may recommend either local or general anesthesia, depending upon the complexity of the operation.
To begin the rhinoplasty surgery, tiny incisions are made which allow Dr. Summers to access the underlying nasal structure. Dr. Summers then sculpts the cartilage and bone to form the basis for the new look. Two basic methods are utilized for performing nose surgery. These methods are referred to as the ‘open’ and the ‘closed’ techniques.
The open rhinoplasty technique allows for maximum visibility and control over the procedure. The incision used in the open technique is placed in-between the nostrils on the columella (the medial nostril strip).
In the closed rhinoplasty technique, the incisions are internal only – however, there is less surgical control over the outcome. In many cases this can be used to reduce a slight hump in the nose or to place an implant. Dr. Summers will discuss which technique is best when the you arrive for your initial consultation.
In order to speed the healing process and to reduce the recovery time, it is important to keep your head elevated. Walking is encouraged but stenuous activity must be avoided. Some swelling is common and most visible swelling will resolve within a few weeks; however, minor residual swelling of the tip of the nose may occur for several months. At the Maryland Plastic Surgery Center, Dr. Summers will apply a splint, bandages, and/or gauze immediately following rhinoplasty surgery to aid in the healing process and to minimize movement of the nose. Dr. Summers usually will not put any packing in the nose. Any corrective glasses that are worn must be taped up and off the nose. The nose will need to be well-protected from the sun for the first year after the procedure to avoid sunburn. Typically, there is very little pain associated with the surgery – discomfort is effectively treated with oral medication and/or cold compresses.
In addition to rhinoplasty, Baltimore and Annapolis nose surgery patients may benefit from a chin implant or a facelift procedure. Face lift patients can achieve a younger, more rejuvenated appearance by toning and tightening the face. Dr. Summers is considered to be a Baltimore facelift specialist, and patients can expect beautiful and natural-looking results.
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A: At the Maryland Plastic Surgery Center, it is very common for patients to have a functional rhinoplasty (e.g. surgery to make it easier to breathe through the nose) at the same time as a cosmetic rhinoplasty. Simultaneous procedures typically include septoplasty for a deviated septum, turbinectomy to open the inner airway, and nasal valve repair for internal nasal valve collapse.
Also, it is appropriate to have other facial cosmetic procedures simultaneous with a cosmetic rhinoplasty. For example, in selected patients, a chin implant can tremendously enhance the results of a rhinoplasty. Similarly, liposuction of the neck can substantially improve a patient’s profile when combined with a rhinoplasty.
A: Due to the variety of procedures available in plastic surgery, there can be no blanket rule on age although age will be taken into consideration when planning your operation. People of all ages have taken advantage of the image-enhancement offered by plastic surgery. There are even procedures appropriate for young children! It is important to realize the limitations of plastic surgery. Plastic surgery cannot “fix” every situation or reverse the aging process. What is a good procedure for one person may not be an appropriate procedure for another. We are committed to making your plastic surgery experience a successful one.
A: During your consultation we will discuss your desired changes and expectations, review your medical history and current health, and make an assessment on whether the procedure(s) in question are right for you. This is a good time to ask specific questions about the procedure so that you are fully prepared, mentally and emotionally, for surgery. We will discuss the results that can be achieved, with the aid of photos and/or computer imaging. When a final decision is made, you will need to sign an informed consent stating that you are fully aware and understand what is entailed by your pending operation, including the potential complications and secondary effects.
A: Generally, post-operative instructions call for rest and limited movement in order to speed up the healing process and recovery time. The length of recovery varies with each procedure and is different for each individual. Bruises usually disappear within a few days, and most swelling is gone in a matter of weeks. If you follow our post-operative instructions carefully, you will be able to enjoy your normal activities within no time. Your scars will fade over time but are permanent. We take care to conceal any scars so that they are barely visible, if at all. The image-enhancing effects of plastic surgery become more evident over time with certain procedures taking up to a year for your body to fully adjust and settle into its new look. When you come in for your consultation we can discuss your expected recovery period and any post-operative instructions in detail.
A: Insurance providers generally cover costs for reconstructive surgery such as nose surgery to allow for a patient to breathe better. Therefore, the insurance company may pay a part of the surgical fees. If your surgery is covered by insurance, pre-certification is required. We will be happy to assist you with the process.
Note: Insurance companies will not pay for any portion of a procedure that is cosmetic. Therefore, do not expect your insurance company to reimburse you completely for all of the fees you have paid. Also, patients are responsible for full payment of their quoted fees prior to surgery. Reimbursement, when available, will be made by your insurance company directly to you.
A: The type of the anesthesia varies with each procedure. For some procedures, only local anesthesia or local anesthesia with intravenous (IV) sedation is needed. This method will allow you to be awake, but insensitive to any pain. In more complex procedures, general anesthesia is needed and you will be asleep during the entire procedure. The anesthesia used in your operation will depend on the type and extent of the procedure(s), your age, and the surgeon’s preference.
A: Maryland Plastic Surgery is Maryland’s premiere cosmetic surgery center and medical spa. The Center’s director, Dr. Adam Summers, is an expert cosmetic surgeon who uses advanced techniques to achieve natural looking results. Just 15 minutes from Baltimore, Howard County (Columbia) and Annapolis, the Center specializes in tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), breast augmentation, breast lift, liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) and facelift procedures. © Baltimore Maryland Plastic Surgery Center and Medical Spa.
Dr. Adam Summers performs the Most Facelift a long lasting minimally invasive facelift procedure which he developed at the Maryland Plastic Surgery Center. The Most Facelift is a customized variation of the Threadlift Face Lift (eg. Silk Lift, Aptos Lift, Featherlift, Soft Lift, Curl Lift). The Maryland Plastic Surgery Center is just minutes from Ellicott City, Towson, Rockville, Silver Spring, Bethesda, Annapolis, Baltimore, Columbia and Washington DC. Copyright 2007 Maryland Plastic Surgery - One Hour Threadlift Facelift in Maryland.