Rhinoplasty New York City
Introduction to Rhinoplasty
At Lao Plastic Surgery on 5th Avenue in New York City, rhinoplasty is one of our most well-known procedures. Every nose is different. Some are big, some are small, and some are even crooked or have multiple curves, but they all serve a purpose, both in function and appearance. Although we all have them, some patients aren’t pleased with the look of their noses and would feel more confident if it was altered to better suit their aesthetic desires. As one of the most individualized procedures in plastic surgery, Rhinoplasty has become popular across the world in every culture. Dr. William Lao brings his knowledge and skills from specializing in both Asian and non-Asian nasal surgery to his patients in New York City.
What is a Rhinoplasty?
At our boutique practice in New York City, rhinoplasty is our most popular procedure and one of Dr. Lao’s specialties. To better understand if the procedure is right for you, you should understand the operation and the benefits. Below, we’ve outlined the surgical highlights, frequently asked questions, and more information about Dr. Lao. The nose is the central feature of our face, not only in terms of its anatomical location but also in its aesthetic influence on the entire face. The outlook and shape of a nose can change the entire look of an individual. It can highlight certain features while drawing attention away from others. A nose that is out of proportion to the face and its surrounding facial features stands out and can be the focus of unwanted attention. Sometimes, these flaws created by the nose are noticeable only when in a close-distance conversation with another individual, and other times, the issues are prominent enough to be viewed from a distance. Our New York rhinoplasty procedure aims to change the appearance of the nose by making specific changes to certain nasal features, such as altering the shape, length, and width. Whether it is too big, too small, crooked, or deformed, the goal of rhinoplasty surgery is to remove those undesirable features and bring proportional harmony to the face. Dr. Lao’s knowledge is what makes him among the best to perform a rhinoplasty NYC residents can depend on.
Rhinoplasty at First Glance
- Surgery Time: 1.5 – 3 hours
- Price: ~$10,000 – $30,000 (For an accurate cost, please ask during your consultation).
- Recovery: Most patients return home on the day of surgery and return to routine within 2 – 4 weeks.
- Results: Immediate and recognizable, with long-lasting results, with initial swelling subsiding within a few weeks. It may take a full year for your nasal contour to fully refine.
Asian Rhinoplasty
In many rhinoplasty cases, the ideal goal of the patient is to enhance the appearance of their nose without diluting or sacrificing the specific features of the nose that are relative to their culture. The goal of Asian rhinoplasty is to retain the natural cultural characteristics of the nose’s appearance while reshaping the features of the nose that the patient is unhappy with. Patients of Asian descent commonly have an overly rounded nasal tip that must be refined. The bridge width and height may also need to be enhanced. The nasal cartilage may be weaker, and the skin of the nose may be thicker. For more information on Asian Rhinoplasty, please view our article dedicated to that procedure.
Ethnic Rhinoplasty
Every human being on this planet is blessed to have features that are unique to them, so in the world of plastic surgery, that means that not every technique works the same way for everyone. Dr. Lao offers variations of the Rhinoplasty surgery to give every New York City patient their own opportunity to change their appearance while maintaining their ethnic identity. With an Ethnic Rhinoplasty, extra care and attention to detail make it possible to create a more pleasing nose aesthetic for his non-Caucasian patients.
This particular Rhinoplasty procedure helps minimize nasal flaws, improving the overall size, shape, and symmetry bringing out facial harmony, all while preserving your unique beauty and heritage. As with all Rhinoplasty surgeries, there are numerous health benefits such as correcting breathing concerns or issues caused by a deviated septum. Dr. Lao uses proven surgical techniques to provide a new nose for his patients without any prominent or visible scarring.
Male Rhinoplasty in NYC
Dr. Lao specializes in male rhinoplasty for his guy patients that are trying to alter the shape and size of their nose, or often times, remove a “bump” or “hump”. Male Rhinoplasty is geared towards keeping a powerful, prominent nose—with a less rotated nasal tip—but one that fits a masculine face. You’ll be able to maintain your square, well-defined jawline and adjust some of the more nuanced defects that you may not like about your nose.
Dr. Lao takes everything about what makes a male nose unique into consideration when performing this procedure. These characteristics are usually your nose width, the angle of the nasal tip, your facial shape and structure, and finally, the angle of your nasal bridge. Since Dr. Lao has experience with Asian Rhinoplasty and Ethnic Rhinoplasty as well, you can rest assured that no matter what your genetic makeup is, you are in qualified hands that can get you that leading man appearance.
Revision Rhinoplasty in NYC
When you get any sort of cosmetic surgery, many patients experience a whirlwind of issues such as financial requirements, emotional decision-making, and time spent recovering; so what happens when you just aren’t satisfied with the final results? While it may feel like you’re stuck, Dr. Lao is more than happy to help pull you back up and have you looking your very best. A Revision Rhinoplasty is a second surgery that corrects or revises the previous work that may not be up to your expectations.
The bad news with a revision is that not all repairs are going to be a quick fix and if you’ve had a recent nose job, you will need to wait for your nose to fully heal before coming in for changes. The good news is that Dr. Lao has the experience and knowledge to help you achieve a nasal appearance that you can be proud of.
Septoplasty
In some cases, nasal surgery is performed for function rather than form. Some people find it difficult to breathe because of airway obstruction in their nasal cavity. Clearing the pathway through the surgical restructuring of the nasal cavity is also a common reason for people seeking rhinoplasty. If the obstruction is nasal in origin then combining rhinoplasty with septoplasty can effectively relieve the airway obstruction.
Dr. Lao Rhinoplasty Expertise in NYC
- Dr. William Lao has performed over 1,000 successful facial plastic surgeries over the last 10 years.
- Winner of the 2022 Top Doctor award from NEW BEAUTY
- Graduated from Johns Hopkins University with a double major, followed by a Doctorate in Medicine
- Dr. Lao is a member of the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, and the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.
- He has written chapters in several textbooks about multiple cosmetic plastic surgeries, including Rhinoplasty.
We recommend our patients of adult age who have physically developed. Typically our patients are between the ages of 18-and 65.
What are the Benefits of a Rhinoplasty?
Our NYC rhinoplasty patients find so many benefits in the surgery. Below, we’ve included some of the advantages:
- Nose surgery can change the size and shape of your nose.
- With the surgery, we’re able to remove an unwanted bump in the nose.
- Many of our patients come to us to revise a surgery they had elsewhere. Known as rhinoplasty revision.
- Some patients find the section between their lips and nose unattractive, a rhinoplasty can fix this issue.
- With the surgery, we can address a drooping nose tip.
- We can correct breathing issues.
A Message from NYC Rhinoplasty Expert, Dr. William Lao
“Rhinoplasty is one of the most popular surgical procedures that I perform in my NYC office. Not only is it a procedure that corrects common aesthetic problems with the nose, but it’s also one that I confidently carry out to help patients solve functional issues that may arise in the nose. Since I began practicing, I’ve completed hundreds of rhinoplasty surgeries on a wide range of patients with different backgrounds. My office in New York City is a top-of-the-line facility with a chic design and passionate staff. We’re here to answer any questions and are available to guide our patients through their journey to a more aesthetically pleasing and functional nose. I am confident that with my experience and unparalleled technique, I will be able to achieve the desired look that you seek. I look forward to meeting you!”
Who are the Best Candidates for a Rhinoplasty?
Because rhinoplasty can be done for different reasons, there are many candidates for the procedure. Below, we’ve included nominees for the surgery.
- Our candidates should have a positive outlook.
- Patients should be in good health and not smoke.
- Our patients must have realistic expectations.
- Patients getting cosmetic nose surgery should be of adult age.
- Candidates may not breathe well, due to nasal obstructions.
- Candidates should be psychologically stable.
We recommend our patients of adult age who have physically developed. Typically our patients are between the ages of 18-and 65.
What’s the First Step?
The first step is to get in touch. By filling out a contact form on our appointment page, a member of our team will get in touch with you to schedule a consultation. During your appointment, you’ll be able to meet one-on-one with Dr. William Lao.
Dr. Lao will complete a thorough evaluation of your nose, provide his expert recommendations, and answer any questions you have. You should be as open and honest with Dr. Lao about your aesthetic desires, as great communication always leads to optimal results. Dr. Lao has been featured in numerous publications about his surgical techniques. Including a recent article by New Beauty, where he discusses rhinoplasty. If you’re happy with Dr. Lao’s recommendations, surgery will be booked. Once the surgery is booked, our expert surgical team will provide pre and postoperative instructions. These guidelines are created to ensure patient safety and the best possible surgical outcome.
What to Expect on the Day of a Rhinoplasty?
Every nose is different. And because of this, different techniques and approaches to surgery need to be utilized to provide the kind of personalized results desired. The attention paid to each nose has to be individualized. Mainly, two types of incisions are used: Open and Closed. Open rhinoplasty involves a small well-hidden incision on the skin of the underside of the nose. Closed rhinoplasty hides the incision inside the nostrils. The choice between which incision to use will depend on the specific alterations that are being made to the different areas of the nose. Both techniques have their advantages and disadvantages. There is no visible scar for a closed rhinoplasty because the incisions for the procedure are made internally, but there is better surgery exposure in the open technique if extensive nasal tip work is required. Rhinoplasty is typically performed under general anesthesia, patients will be able to sleep during the procedure, and wake up with their perfected nose! Individuals interested in our rhinoplasty in New York should have an extensive conversation with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss what the best approach is relating to desired changes in the nose. The surgery usually takes about two hours to perform, but that can change depending on the type of nose surgery being performed.
The Anatomy of the Nose
With the ability to detect over a trillion different smells, affect your taste buds, and effectively make an impression on anyone who looks at us, it’s safe to say that the nose is a greater necessity in our lives than some may give it credit for. For all of its intricacies and nuances, the nose is incredibly compelling and through his continued studies of this external organ, Dr. Lao has developed a thorough understanding of its anatomy. When performing a Rhinoplasty, he consistently takes into consideration the importance of its structures, while seeking to preserve its natural function, but still improve the external appearance. For your clarification, we have included the structures Dr. Lao is mindful of during surgery:
- Skin: As the overall protector of your nose and its inner workings, the upper portion of your nose has skin that is thinner and more mobile, while the lower portion is less flexible and thicker.
- Bones: Underneath the armor of the skin, sits two thin bones atop of the nose, which, depending on the individual, can vary in size. The bones project outward and are partially responsible for the hump that develops along the dorsum, often referred to as the bridge of the nose.
- Cartilage: The nose has five distinct cartilage structures that help support and gives your nose its primary shape. These different types of connective tissue in your nasal cavity are called the septal nasal cartilage, lateral nasal cartilage, major alar cartilage, minor alar cartilage, and vomeronasal cartilage. The septal nasal cartilage separates one nasal cavity from the other. The upper lateral nasal cartilage is a wing-like expansion, providing support within the nasal cavities. The major alar cartilage holds up each naris (nostril). The minor alar cartilage provides form and strength at the base of your nostrils. Finally, the vomeronasal cartilage is a very thin piece that provides basic strength and structure. In certain situations, the septum can get warped or deviated, which makes it more difficult to breathe. Under a skilled surgeon’s hands like Dr. Lao’s, part of the septum can be harvested and used as a graft to give additional support to the structure of your nose.
RHINOPLASTY SCHEDULE
Surgery
Time: 1-3 hours
General Anesthesia or Local Anesthesia
Recovery
Ambulate the night of surgery
Shower 2 days after surgery
2 days off work
Restriction
6 weeks from heavy lifting and swimming
Rhinoplasty Recovery
After your rhinoplasty is complete, your nose will be bandaged. Splints may be used to provide additional support and protection during the healing process. Rhinoplasty is an invasive procedure, so swelling is to be expected. Bruising or discoloration may occur around the eyes. These issues will slowly dissipate over the coming weeks. The procedure produces little to no pain during the recovery period. Any pain or discomfort experienced can be managed with medication. In most cases, patients choose to take a week or so off from work to heal and to allow a majority of the swelling to go down. While some people tend to feel ready for work after just a few days, the bandages, potential discoloration, and swelling can prevent them from feeling comfortable. Most individuals are ready to return to their normal activities after around two weeks. While a majority of the swelling will disappear after about three to six weeks, some swelling may remain for up to a year. This residual swelling should not be obvious to others and will primarily prevent the more refined contours of the nose from being visible until the nose is fully healed.
Why Choose Dr. Lao?
Dr. William Lao is a board-certified plastic surgeon who is proud to have attended Johns Hopkins University. Dr. Lao has over a decade of experience and has been listed as a Top Doc in the aesthetic magazine, New Beauty. Dr. Lao prides himself on patient safety and his ability to connect with his patients.
How Much Does a Rhinoplasty cost in New York City?
The cost of Rhinoplasty in New York City can vary from patient to patient, depending on their individual needs. Factors we take into consideration are the overall complexity of the procedure and the amount of correction required to achieve the desired results. Please book a consultation with us in our Manhattan office. During the appointment, we will be able to provide you with an accurate price.
FAQs
What are the risks associated with Rhinoplasty?
As with all surgeries, risks are possible. Dr. Lao considers patient safety as his number one priority and will do his best to ensure that all risks are minimal. It’s vital that you follow all post and preoperative instructions, which will help keep you safe and make sure Dr. Lao can produce the best results possible. All risks associated with the procedure will be discussed with you during your consultation.
What is the difference between Aesthetic Rhinoplasty and Functional Rhinoplasty?
When considering rhinoplasty, it’s important to know what your goals are before committing to the surgery. There are specific techniques used to address cosmetic concerns and functional concerns. When performed for cosmetic reasons, the goal of a rhinoplasty is to make the nose more symmetrical with the rest of your facial features. This will help enhance your facial profile and your overall appearance.
When performed for functional reasons, rhinoplasty can help improve airflow and enhance your breathing if it has been obstructed. It’s a useful solution for those suffering from a deviated septum, a condition where the nose is significantly off-center or crooked, making breathing difficult. Dr. Lao will perform an initial assessment of your nose to determine which method is best suited to your specific needs.
Is there a non-surgical option?
There is a non-surgical rhinoplasty. However, these results are not permanent and are not as effective. To achieve the best results, surgery is needed. During your consultation, Dr. Lao will provide his expert recommendations and present all options.
Are Rhinoplasty results permanent?
Many surgical procedures aren’t permanent, but that’s not the case with rhinoplasty! What’s wonderful about this procedure, is that the results are permanent and can be enjoyed for the rest of your life.
How long until I can see my Rhinoplasty results?
The results will be best enjoyed after the swelling has gone down. Swelling typically goes down after about three-six weeks.
Will there be scars after my Rhinoplasty?
As with all surgeries, there will be scars. However, the scars are typically very inconspicuous and will continue to fade over time.
What are the risks associated with Rhinoplasty?
- Anesthesia risks
- Change in skin sensation (numbness or pain)
- Difficulty breathing
- Infection
- Nasal septal perforation (a hole in the nasal septum, rare)
- Poor wound healing or scarring
- Possibility of revisional surgery
- Skin discoloration and swelling
- Unsatisfactory nasal appearance
Schedule Your Consultation
The choice to undergo a rhinoplasty in Manhattan is not one that you have to rush. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the procedure and recovery process, schedule a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. William Lao. Dr. Lao will provide you with an opportunity to understand how the procedure works and what to expect in terms of recovery and results. With more than 10 years of professional experience, Dr. Lao is one of the top rhinoplasty surgeons in New York and is more than capable of providing you with personalized care and outstanding results.
