Is It Possible to Achieve my Old Nose or Similar through Rhinoplasty after Jaw Surgery changed it? (photo)

Question

(I had jaw surgery 6 months ago and understand healing takes up to a year, but my nose has changed in ways I know are not from swelling. I liked my old nose and now want a rhinoplasty to restore it. Specifically, I want a longer/, slimmer bridge and less visible, non-flared nostrils. My doctors assured me I’d like the new shape, but I don’t. I just want to look like myself again. Is it possible to achieve a similar, natural result? I’m not looking for an unnatural look (22F) (Jaw moved forward).

Selcuk Inanli, MD · Answer

Hello! Thank you for your question.
As far as I can understand from your question If you can send us your photos from the front and side profile at 95 degree angles in better light, we can make a more accurate evaluation.
It would be better face to face consultation.
Best Regards!

Lucian Ion, FRCS · Answer

Thank you for your inquiry and for sharing your photographs.

In general, advancement of the upper jaw can produce slight flaring of the nostrils and create the impression that the nasal tip is less projected. To effectively control the shape of the nose, rib cartilage graft rhinoplasty is often necessary, as the internal support of the nasal bridge may have been affected by the orthognathic surgery. Additionally, the septal cartilage may no longer be a reliable source of graft material.

Photographs from before your surgery that clearly show the nasal characteristics can be very helpful during a consultation. Using computer imaging and simulation, we can develop a treatment plan that, while not 100% predictable, can help define the type of changes needed to achieve a result you feel more comfortable with. However, it’s important to understand that it would not be possible to fully restore the exact nasal characteristics you had before surgery, as the three-dimensional arrangement of the midface has changed on multiple levels.

Tanveer Janjua, MD · Answer

It is a common issue that after upper jaw surgery nostrils can appear wider or have more flare. Alarplasty is the best solution to reduce that appearance. Your bridge is adequate. Making it more defined can change the nose look to a caucasian nose. 
Regards
Dr. Janjua

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

Maxillary advancement surgery is associated with a lot of swelling, and it can take a full year to see your final result. I agree that you appear to have a slightly wider nasal appearance post-operative, however, I believe it's too early to tell. Additionally, rhinoplasty surgery is reserved for those people with severe dissatisfaction with their nasal appearances. Since you've only been dissatisfied for 6 months, things may change, and an impulsive decision maybe one you could not undo. I hope this is helpful. Sincerely, Dr Joseph

Jeffrey H. Spiegel, MD · Answer

I do a lot of nose and jaw surgery (often together). It should indeed be possible to change your nose in a way you find attractive and familiar.

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

It takes an average of 12 months for postoperative result and swelling to settle. Only in the case that your nose is not changed for the better you should discuss your next step with a board certified plastic surgeon, expert in rhinoplasty. Be patient. Good luck.

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. Unfortunately, this is extremely common after this type of jaw surgery. Your nose can be fixed with a rhinoplasty. Placement of extended spreader grafts can de-rotate your tip and nasal tip refinement can be performed at the same time. With good surgical technique, you could have an outstanding result. I recommend that you seek consultation with a qualified board-certified rhinoplasty surgeon who can evaluate you in person.

Best wishes and good luck.

Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Best wishes and good luck.

Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

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