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While traditional rhinoplasty might be what most people think of when considering modifying the appearance of the nose, it isn’t the only option.

Preservation rhinoplasty is a new technique that offers many of the same benefits as traditional rhinoplasty. It is a technique where Dr. Smith works to retain as much cartilage and bone as possible while improving the aesthetics of the nose.

One of the largest benefits of preservation rhinoplasty is that it creates a fully natural-looking nose. In a world where people want to avoid looking as if they have had surgery, this solution fits the bill where other procedures might not.

What Preservation Rhinoplasty Is

The main idea behind a preservation rhinoplasty is to modify the nose while preserving as much of the tissue as possible.

This procedure demands the use of advanced surgical techniques. The surgeon will change the shape of the nose by removing small bits of cartilage and bone found under the bridge of the nose. Experienced facial plastic surgeons, like Dr. Smith, can reduce the height of the nose bridge without making changes elsewhere.

The Difference Between Preservation and Traditional Rhinoplasty

Many people choose rhinoplasty as a way to lower the height of the bridge of the nose. Those with an arch or a hump on the bridge may wish to have it removed.

During traditional rhinoplasty, patients get a changed nose and reduced dorsal or bridge size. However, some believe the results do not look natural based on the change to the nose’s dorsal or bridge lines.

Since traditional rhinoplasty removes cartilage and bone from the top of the bridge, the bone structure of the nose is altered in the process. So, it can correct an issue like a bump on the nose bridge, but it also changes the lines of the nose.

On the other hand, preservation rhinoplasty retains a natural appearance while changing the height of the nose bridge. Instead of removing bone and cartilage on top, it’s taken from underneath the nose instead.

Because of this, the result from a preservation rhinoplasty may provide a more natural appearance. This makes it less likely that a revision rhinoplasty will be needed.

What to Expect During Preservation Rhinoplasty

Before your preservation rhinoplasty, you should eat a healthy diet and get lots of rest. If you smoke, you should stop six weeks before the procedure, as smoking can make recovery harder. Nicotine decreases circulation and blood flow to the skin, which makes it harder to heal. Someone should drive you to and from the surgery as you will be under general anesthesia.

On the day of the surgery, you’ll speak with Dr. Smith to ensure everything is going well and to answer any questions you might have. At the time of the procedure, an anesthesiologist will give you general anesthesia. The whole procedure generally lasts an two to three hours.

Once the surgery is complete, a small cast will be placed on your nose to protect the area. You will be monitored until you wake up. When it is safe for you to leave, the person driving you can take you home to begin recovery.