I'm not satisfied with the simulation for rhinoplasty. What is your opinion please - especially the tip of the nose?

Computer simulations are not meant to predict or guarantee an outcome after rhinoplasty. They are simply a means of visual communication to support the consultation and to make certain that the patient and the surgeon share the same surgical ambitions.  In this case I think it has proven quite valuable. The simulation provided is one that many patients would find pleasing. Since you do not, it is important that you share your concerns with your surgeon to help them understand your aesthetic tastes and inclinations. You need to work together to find out if you can reach common ground. 
I think the greatest problem with the computer simulation is the fact that you have not addressed your recessive chin.  I think that your nose simulation would be more pleasing if you were to consider a simultaneous chin augmentation or sliding genioplasty. My Best, Dr. Ridenour

Yes, preoperative imaging can be challenging, especially on the frontal view as it can be a challenge to depict a 3dimensional nose on a 2 dimensional image, with morphing involved.  I would ask to see photos of actual before and afters of patients...

I am not a big fan of similated photos. Rhinoplasty is very specific to the individual and requires a clear understanding of the patient's desires and a clear explanation of what can be done. I prefer reviewing photos of my patients to get a feel as to what the patient desires. This also give you the opportunity to evaluate the results of the surgeon.Hope this helps

Thank you for your question, and congratulations on considering a rhinoplasty!  It is a wonderful and rewarding operation.  Computer simulation is a tool that surgeons use to communicate with her/his patients about the possible outcomes of a rhinoplasty surgery.  It can be a very helpful tool, but both surgeon and patient must have a consensus on the desired outcome.  If you are not happy with the simulation that your surgeon has provided, I would suggest speaking with them about the concern.  As I tell all of my patients, the simulation can be easily changed.  However, sometimes a desired outcome may not be possible, so be sure to discuss this thoroughly with your surgeon.  At the end of the day, always look at the before and after photographs of the surgeons you consult.  These are results from their own patients and (I believe) are a better guide for your expected outcome.  Be sure to consult with a board certified facial plastic or plastic surgeon who specializes in rhinoplasty.I hope this helps!-David Gilpin

Unfortunately the attached photo has since been deleted. However, I can discuss with you the idea of computer simulation, and how simulation is not a guarantee of your surgical result. In addition, the simulation has no anatomical basis, as it’s simply pixels on a page. I recommend sitting down with a board certified plastic surgeon to discuss in detail your desired aesthetic results. A consultation should not be rushed. In my practice, the consultation concludes only after I’ve listened carefully to a patient’s situation, have discussed the outcome, have given a personal tour of the surgical facility, and most importantly, it is only over after all of the patient’s questions have been answered. 

Hello! Simulations are a helpful tool to make sure that you and your surgeon are on the same page but are never meant to be a guarantee of results. The most important thing is to make sure that your goals and expectations are understood! We wish you the best!

Hi Creative331,
While computer simulation technology is designed to help patients visualize the potential outcome of their operation, it’s important to remember that these reproductions don’t produce exact results. Since surgery on the tip of the nose is delicate and complex, it is best to consult with an experienced plastic surgeon that has a proven track record. Furthermore, when choosing a surgeon it is important to pick a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon who also has a specialty in otolaryngology, this will allow him or her to keep functional aspects of your nose in mind during a rhinoplasty as well.
Best of luck
Dr. Sam Rizk

Computer simulation  is not a reliable way to predict a surgical outcome especially when it comes to Rhinoplasty . It is crucial to select a Surgeon who has years of experience performing Rhinoplasty as well as a wide gallery of before and after photos- of real patients.

Thank you for your question! If you are unhappy with the simulation, you should discuss these concerns with your surgeon. This may alter their surgical plan so they can help you achieve your goals. Although computer simulation in rhinoplasty is not a guarantee of results, it is a great visual communication tool between a patient and the surgeon. I hope that helps and best of luck!

When we offer computer imaging to establish goals for rhinoplasty, we morph our patients with their facial planes perpendicular to the floor. You appear to be looking upwards which makes evaluation difficult. Your morphed photo may show a bit of a long appearance, and a pointy tip. If you cannot clarify your concerns with your surgeon, consider consulting other rhinoplasty specialists. Thank you. Dr Joseph.

Dear Creative331,Thank you for your question. It is difficult to analyze your tip with only a side view. Computer simulations, are just that, simulations and not indicative of your final result. That is why rather than using simulations I show patients a portfolio of my cases, so they can get an idea of what their nose will look like.Good luck,Nirmal R. Nathan, M.D.

Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgeons
Fellowship-trained Craniofacial Surgeon