Rhinoplasty: Q&A

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Can Rhinoplasty Results Be Previewed by Computer Imaging?

Is there any way to preview results of the procedure by altering patient pictures in image processing applications? Can anybody describe to me what Rhinoplasty (for narrowing the nose) results should I expect based on my picture?

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31 Doctor Answers | Asked by NikolicaKG in Kragujevac, Serbia

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Computer imaging for rhinoplasty preview

The best computer imaging is done usually in the office with a professional-grade camera, proper lighting and background color. Complex-type computer imaging programs that are best suited for this type of demonstration are best done in the office. There are other options where the pictures can be digitally sent into the office and morphed, but oftentimes, sent images are not of proper lighting, color or angle. The computer imaging is best done at the time of the consultation so that one... more

Image software helps in previewing results

Some of the plastic surgeon's offices offer a computer imaging for the Rhinoplasty results preview and review purpose. It gives a patient an opportunity to view and discuss the options of the nose changes. Some patients value a chance to discuss and "design together" with a surgeon a desired look. It gives them certain level of confidence in perusing the rhinoplasty surgery. see video

Are we on the same page?

I find computer imaging software most helpful to better understand what your desires are. It is really a GREAT communication tool. It really works best on profile view. Do you want your nose more or less projected (how far it sticks off your face) or do you want it more or less turned up? Do you want a scooped out or a straight bridge? Frontal view is not as representative as the profile view because the photo is flat (2 dimensional and you are 3 dimensional) but it may show you what you... more

Computer simulations don't predict outcomes

Computer imaging is sometimes a useful tool for communication between the patient and the doctor. However it doesnot predict an outcome. It is easy to perform "surgery" on a computer. Photoshop flawlessly creates beautiful visual effects. The computer simulation does not, however, predict the effects on the appearance, the effects from/on adjacent unoperated tissues, on breathing etc. The disclaimers most doctors give their patients are an indication of how unhappy patients are if their... more

Computer Imaging in Rhinoplasty

I use computer imaging extensively in my rhinoplasty consultations. I feel it is an essential part of my practice, as it allows patients to communicate their aesthetic wishes in visual form. At the same time, it gives me the opportunity to display what sort of results I feel are achievable and realistic given the patient's nasal anatomy and skin type. These images usually take about 15-20 minutes to create and I do save them, to use as a guide during surgery. The images are not a... more

Rhinoplasty: 3D Computer Imaging Can Help Set Goals For Surgery

There are several methods that rhinoplasty surgeons use in their practices to help patients understand what their surgical result may look like. Some surgeons prefer to use tracing paper overlying the patient photographs. This can give patients a rough idea of what to expect from surgery. Computer imaging, frequently called computer morphing, is a very effective way of communicating the intended surgical results and to set goals for surgery. Most recently, 3D computer imaging and analysis... more

Morphing software abounds

Nik, You can have your nose "morphed" with one of the many morphing software applications that are available. In fact, you can probably even morph the photo yourself with photoshop to see how your proposed surgery might look. You could bring your altered photo to your plastic surgeon to see if the results are indeed realistic. Good luck.

Yes -on a computer. Real patient before/after photos more reliable

My son can make you a great nose on a computer: he knows nothing about noses. Look at the surgeons before/after noses that are similar to yours. This will give a better idea as to what the doctor actually does.

Toby Mayer, MD

7 reviews

Beverly Hills Facial Plastic Surgeon

www.bevhills.com

Video imaging will show you result ahead of time.

Patients can view what their postoperative rhinoplasty images might look like through video imaging.

Rhinoplasty Before & After Photos

If you review rhinoplasty results online or on a surgeon’s website just remember that pre and post op views of patients on a plastic surgeon’s web site may not be just representative results. They are their best results. They do not guarantee the results of an individual patient. Of course, all of us show photographs of good results primarily. The goal is to choose a rhinoplasty surgeon that actually can provide you with an objective view of what is possible, analyze your nose... more

Rod J. Rohrich, MD

10 reviews

Dallas Plastic Surgeon

Aesthetic imaging

In my office we have used a "Mirror imaging system" for almost 20 years. It can give the patient a very accurate portrail of an expected rhinoplasty result so long as the surgeon is honest with the patient. I always back this process up by showing the patient books and books of actual rhinoplasty before and afters photos that I have done to let them see "real"results. Imaging can be great to help a patient visualise his likely results, however real photos attest to... more

Rhinoplasty Imaging

Imaging using digital photography and computer software is common. Some newer 3-D applications are available, as well. The images serve as a great tool to communicate with your surgeon about your desires and what he thinks is achievable.

Computer Imaging for Realistic Expectations

Computer imaging is a particularly effective technique for allowing patients to achieve realistic expectations as to the outcome of their rhinoplasty procedure. Using computer imaging, alterations such as taking down a bump, rotating a tip, narrowing a bridge, and refining the tip can all be visualized, allowing the patient to actually see how they are likely to look, and use that to provide feedback to the surgeon as to whether that is how he/she wants to look. It is crucial, for... more

Computer morphing a useful rhinoplasty consultation tool

Yes, there are multiple programs available for rhinoplasty surgeons to perform preoperative morphing. I find it to be an invaluable tool to communicate with patients so that I can best determine what changes (and to what level) they are interested in making. It is important to recognize that the images are not a guarantee of results but do represent the goal we're working for. Though many surgeons use morphing software, not all surgeons perform the morphing themselves. I find... more

Morphing Is A Very Valuable Tool in Rhinoplasty

Most surgeons serious about rhinoplasties make extensive use of morphing software. The final results will never look identical to the morphed image but should resemble it. The morphed image is an invaluable communication tool. The software helps the surgeon and patient agree on the goals of surgery. Here the old adage of a picture is worth 1000 words definitely applies. During the consultation the surgeon should be able to make changes on the image and tell... more

Evaluate previous patient's photos to determine what results are realistic following rhinoplasty.

There are many programs that allow a surgeon to "morph" a photograph to illustrate post-operative results. I do no recommend this. I have seen many patients from other surgeons unhappy when their actual result did not resemble their "morphed" photo. I recommend you meet with many surgeons and review actual surgical results. Your surgeon should review you photos and explain to you areas that could be improved... more

Computer imaging before Rhinoplasty

The most common form of viewing possible changes with Rhinoplasty is computer imaging. Most nasal specialists would offer this to the patients during the consultation. I find it a useful tool to communicate with the patient as to the desired results. Be careful, not all surgeon that cam perform "computer imaging surgery" can deliver that result in the operating room.

Computer morphing is essential in Rhinoplasty consultation

It is said that a picture is worth a thousand words. Digital morphing can help a patient demonstrate what changes they want to the nose and to what degree. It makes sure that everyone is on the same page. It is the surgeon's responsibility to tell a patient what is and is not possible and to not overdraw a nose he or she cannot deliver.

Computer morphing does not replace patient-physician discussion

The photos which are taken for computer morphing include static and dynamic (smiling) views in at least 7 different full face poses, which are clearly defined. Each "click of the mouse" or morphing move corresponds to a surgical manuever, which can be incorporated into the surgical "flight plan". However theoretical concerns must be related to the patient's age, gender, height, aesthetic ideals, etc. The bottom line is that despite cultural, historical conventions a... more

Lavinia Chong, MD

22 reviews

Orange County Plastic Surgeon

www.chongmd.com

There are many programs out there that can do this

Yes, you can alter the image of your nose through computer programs before the procedure. This is a great way to convey to your surgeon what you want and for the surgeon to use as goals for the procedure. Although one thing to realize is that these are computer images and that the results cannot be guaranteed. You should be realistic about what can be done. Most plastic surgeons have this type of programs and you should ask for it because it helps. Some surgeons don't believe in this and... more

Philip Young, MD

6 reviews

Bellevue Facial Plastic Surgeon

A Picture is Worth a 1000 Words

I find computer-generated imaging (CGI) very helpful during a rhinoplasty consultation. While not all cosmetic surgeons offer this benefit, CGI is an intricate part of the consultation process in my office. The morphing software allows us the opportunity to communicate and visualize goals before any surgery takes-place. Rhinoplasty is one of the most difficult of cosmetic procedures. In addition to being technically challenging to create certain physical changes, there is a great... more

Imaging can help 'show' results, but may not be realistic

Computer imaging is a useful 'tool', however, realize that some surgeons may use it to oversell unrealistic results. Imaging does help showcase potential results and is especially useful in showing the profile view. It is important to seek out a board certified plastic surgeon when searching for a rhinoplasty surgeon.

Morphing - An Important Rhinoplasty Tool

Morphing is excellent tool for the modern rhinoplasty surgeon. Morphing allows the rhinoplasty surgeon to: 1. Morphing communicates the artistic goals of the surgery with the patient. We all have different standards of beauty and morphing is a fantastic way to confirm that the surgeon and patient are on the same page. 2. Morphing establishes a "blue print" or guide for the surgeon. The surgeon will be more efficient in the operating room with a plan based on the changes... more

Rhinoplasty and Computer Imaging

Hi Nik, I routinely use computer imaging to not only show patients what their nose may look like after rhinoplasty, but also as a tool for myself to measure the appropriate amount of change planned for the procedure. I find that the profile view is most reliable and accurate in predicting the result. I am unable to comment on the "effect of narrowing" your nose based on your picture, as one would need a frontal view to begin the discussion. I strongly agree with Dr. Mayer that anyone can... more

Michael A. Persky, MD

21 reviews

Los Angeles Facial Plastic Surgeon

drpersky.com

Predicting outcomes in Rhinoplasty

Computer imaging is an invaluable tool for patients seeking cosmetic alterations to their face and neck. While words can be used to describe desires and expected outcomes, using a visual medium truly enhances the communication between doctor and patient. I do computer imaging on all of my patients. I tell them that it is not a guarantee of a result, but rather a language for communication and understanding of each other's goals. I make every effort to image a realistic outcome based upon a... more

Computer imaging is very useful but it is only an educational device

Computer imaging is only one tool that is commonly used to educate the patient about what is possible. It is of course much easier to do a rhinoplasty on the computer than surgically. A complete exam is necessary to assess the quality of your skin as well as your bone and cartilage structure. Computer imaging while a useful tool is not a guarantee of a result.

A simulation is not a guarantee of final rhinoplasty results

In my office, I routinely use digital simulation to explain my rhinoplasty procedures to patients. I use the simulation with the assistance of the patient to come up with mutual goals for surgery. I always make it known that a simulation is not a guarantee of outcome. There are many factors beyond the control of the surgeon that could alter the end product. I also know when a patient is being unreasonable by the extent of simulation and will be able to let them know that their requests... more

It is possible to do computer imaging for rhinoplasty

It is possible to do computer imaging for rhinoplasty. However, you must keep in mind that this is just imaging and the computer cannot predict how your own tissues will react to the surgery. However, you are able to get a general idea of what your nose would look like. For your question about what your nose would look like. It is impossible to comment specifically on the width since the picture is so small. However, your nose does appear wide and rhinoplasty could definitely narrow... more

Helpful tool

Rhinoplasty computer imaging has helped bridge the communication gap between surgeon and patient. In the past some surgeons would use a mirror or paper tracing to demonstrate the desired after of a rhinoplasty. Computer imaging has helped surgeons communicate to patients more effectively about what can and can't be performed. Computer imaging can be performed to make any nose look like anything so be sure that your surgeon uses this as a communication tool and not a marketing device... more

CLICK BELOW FOR WEB BASED COMPUTER IMAGING

You can try your hand at computer imaging using the link below and uploading your own picture. The tools allow you to manipulate the image.

Otto Joseph Placik, MD

32 reviews

Chicago Plastic Surgeon

Rhinoplasty and computer imaging

I do not perform computer imaging in my office. I feel it gives a false sense of what is achieved and possibly an implied contract for the result. But I do spend a lot of time explaining what can be accomplished. Interestingly, to give you even a slight idea of what you can achieve to narrow the nose, a frontal view is best.