Every year, half a million people who are interested in improving the appearance of their noses seek consultation with cosmetic and plastic surgeons. The nose is one of the most distinguishing aspects of a person's face. An alteration, or rhinoplasty, can make a dramatic difference in a person's appearance. Some people are unhappy with the nose they were born with, others are unhappy with the look of their nose as their face has aged and some seek cosmetic rhinoplasty because of an injury that altered the nose. There are a few different reasons people choose to have rhinoplasty, or reshaping of the nose.

• It can change the angle between your nose and upper lip.
• It can change the shape of the tip or the bridge of the nose.
• It can reduce or increase the size of the nose.
• It may also correct a birth defect, breathing problems or injury.

A rhinoplasty can change undesirable characteristics of a patient's nose, but it should be noted the result is meant to be an improvement not perfection. It is improved to fit the individual patient's face. The patient should be of an age where their nose and face are fully developed, roughly estimated at age fifteen or sixteen. In a consultation, Dr. Sumpter will give you a medical assessment of your nose including the internal and external aspects of its facial structure and discuss your options.

The patient should thoroughly discuss what she or he hopes to change about their nose and their desired result with the surgeon. As in any cosmetic surgery procedure, clear communication between the surgery and the patient throughout the relationship is very important, especially when discussing the result, potential risks and realistic expectations.

A rhinoplasty can improve one's looks, self-confidence and health. The procedure usually lasts one to two hours, but more involved rhinoplasty procedures may take longer. Most rhinoplasty patients are able to get back to their routine within two days and able to return to work approximately a week or so following surgery. Patients will experience some bruising and swelling for a limited time, which may be variable depending upon the individual and may last approximately two weeks. Most of the change will be apparent within three weeks, but there may still be some change for up to a year post surgery. Dr. Sumpter can give guidelines that are more specific on a case-by-case basis.

There are different surgical techniques for rhinoplasty procedures. There is a closed technique in which the incisions are made inside the rim of the nostrils and an open technique in which the incision is made across the base of the nostrils. In both techniques, the soft tissue of the nose is delicately separated from the structures of the nose, giving the surgeon access to the cartilage and bone. The cartilage and bone are then altered into the desired shape. Depending upon the desired result and the surgical plan, some of the bone and cartilage may be removed.

As with any cosmetic surgery procedure or treatment, you should thoroughly discuss your expectations and the result you are looking for with the doctor. During a consultation, Dr. Sumpter will discuss every detail of the process with you including downtime and recovery, as well as mention optional treatments, so that you may decide what is the best course of action for yourself.

If you are interested in learning more about rhiinoplasty and finding out if it is for you, or if you have interest in any other cosmetic surgery procedures or treatments in the Houston metro area, please call us at 281-894-9990 or email us with your name, phone number and area of interest, so that we may contact you and schedule a free, one-on-one consultation with Dr. Sumpter. A consultation is the best way to have all of your questions and concerns answered and get all the information you need to make your decision.

At Winds of Change, you will receive special, individualized care that you deserve. Dr. Sumpter strives to exceed expectations beyond patient satisfaction. Please let us know how we may help you achieve your goals.

Winds of Change Cosmetic Surgery Specialists
12850 Jones Road, Suite 105
Houston, Texas 77070
Email: info@drsumpter.com
Phone: 281-894-9990
Fax: 281-894-9993