How can I find the best rhinoplasty surgeon?

Choosing the right surgeon is the most important decision you can make when considering rhinoplasty (nose job surgery).
Because rhinoplasty is generally considered the most difficult procedure in cosmetic surgery , finding the best rhinoplasty surgeon is essential for obtaining the best rhinoplasty results. Follow these key points to help you narrow your search for the right doctor for you:

Research Your Doctors Credentials: Your rhinoplasty surgeon should be Board Certified in either Plastic Surgery or Otolaryngology (Ear, Nose, & Throat Surgery). Not all "cosmetic surgeons" have completed the rigorous training that is required to become Board Certified in either one of these specialities. It is important to find a surgeon who understands both the aesthetic (cosmetic) aspects of nasal surgery as well as the functional aspects.


Choose a Surgeon Who Specializes in Nasal Surgery: It is important to realize that not all plastic surgeons, nor all ENT surgeons, routinely perform rhinoplasty in their practices. It is imperatice to find one that does. Rhinoplasty takes considerable experience and training to get predictable results. Inquire about what percentage of the doctor's practice is devoted to nasal surgery.


View the Surgeons Rhinoplasty Before & After Results: Most rhinoplasty surgeons maintain a portfolio of examples of their results that compare before and after photos, and many qualified rhinoplasty surgeons have a "Results Gallery" on their websites. You can tell alot about your potential results by looking to see their previous work.


Ask to See Simulated Results: Your rhinoplasty surgeon should analyze your pre-operative photographs with you and be able to show you graphically their intended results. Some physicians prefer to use tracing paper to overlay your photographs, while others may show your photos with computer morphing software.


Trust Your Instincts: Finding a rhinoplasty surgeon who understands your goals, expectations, and desires. Communication is paramount, and you should feel comfortable with your surgeon. Trust your gut.

Rhinoplasty is acknowledged as the most technically challenging cosmetic procedure. The are many good surgeons who perform this procedure regularly and that is the key -  ensure that this procedure is performed regularly by your surgeon. Note that not all ‘cosmetic/plastic surgeons’ do this regularly and feel no shame in asking the question.
Ensure also that:
1. Your surgeon is board certified
2. Ask to see before/after pictures of his/her work
3. Ask about digital morphing 
4. Ask about his/her policy regarding revision surgery.

The most important thing to bear in mind is that you should feel comfortable with your surgeon and ensure he/she understands what you desire and is confident it can be achieved. The price to an extent is secondary as if you’re unhappy with the outcome and require a revision procedure, this will only add to the overall outlay. You best chance for success is your first chance.

The best rhinoplasty surgeon is the one who is the right fit for you. There are many factors that go into deciding who you should trust to do your rhinoplasty. Some important factors to consider include, but are not limited to the following:
1. Approach and results. Before and after photos can be helpful in determining if you and your surgeon have the same aesthetic goals. 
2. Training. I recommend seeing a surgeon who is board certified in plastic surgery or facial plastic surgery. Surgeons who are board certified in facial plastic surgeon often come from an otolaryngology-training background and have extensive knowledge about the anatomy of the face in particular.
3. Simulation. Your surgeon should be able to produce simulated images of what your final result would look like. This is imperative to make sure you and your surgeon are on the same page when it comes to the look you would like to achieve. 
4. Comfort. You should feel comfortable asking your surgeon as many questions as you need in order to get the answers you are looking for. You should walk out of the office feeling good and confident in your decision. 

Gary Linkov, MD
Rhinoplasty Specialist
Manhattan