Posted by Dr. Miguel Fernández Calderón: 22/01/2024
Improving the appearance of the nose is the wish of many, and thanks to new technological advances, traditional rhinoplasty is no longer the only option available to achieve a new nose. With the use of ultrasound waves, it is possible to achieve better results. Keep reading to discover what ultrasonic rhinoplasty is and more details about this procedure.
What is ultrasonic rhinoplasty?
Ultrasonic rhinoplasty is an evolution of traditional rhinoplasty that uses more advanced techniques. It uses high-frequency ultrasonic waves to cut and reshape the bone and cartilage, allowing for more precise surgery. This offers better results and reduces the chances of damage to nerves or blood vessels.
It is one of the plastic surgeries performed on the face that seeks to reshape the nose with the aim of correcting nasal deformities, whether for aesthetic or functional reasons.
How is ultrasonic rhinoplasty performed?
Ultrasonic technology in aesthetic surgery
Ultrasonic technology is an increasingly applied tool in aesthetic surgery due to the many advantages it offers, transforming traditional procedures into more precise surgeries that reduce the risk of damage to surrounding tissues, bleeding, and bruising.
Additionally, the application of these alternatives allows patients to recover more quickly and achieve results that provide a more natural appearance.
The process step by step
To begin the surgery, the surgeon must administer anesthesia, which will depend on various factors specific to each patient. However, in most cases general anesthesia is used so the patient remains asleep throughout the procedure.
After this, an incision is made at the base of the nose. The skin is carefully lifted to expose the underlying bone, and this is the moment to begin nose reshaping.
Reshaping bone and cartilage during ultrasonic surgery requires the use of a specialized instrument that emits ultrasonic waves, which allows precise polishing, sculpting, reshaping, or filing of the bone without damaging surrounding tissues. Once this step is complete, the surgeon will adjust and reposition the nasal tissues, then close the incisions with sutures or staples.
Benefits of ultrasonic rhinoplasty
The techniques used in ultrasound rhinoplasty offer patients faster recovery with less pain and discomfort, allowing them to return to their normal routine soon, as it is a less invasive procedure.
Furthermore, the results are more effective, with smaller scars.
Advantages over traditional rhinoplasty
Traditional rhinoplasty uses tools such as rasps, chisels, and hammers to reshape the nose’s bones and cartilage. This can cause bones to splinter or fracture or result in additional trauma such as swelling, bruising, or scarring. Ultrasonic rhinoplasty, on the other hand, uses piezoelectric tools to achieve more precise results and avoids soft tissue injuries, fractures, or splintering.
Other advantages of ultrasonic rhinoplasty compared to traditional methods include shorter recovery times, since it does not cause significant trauma. This surgery also achieves results that look more natural and are maintained long-term.
Results and recovery
The results obtained from undergoing ultrasonic rhinoplasty are effective and serve to correct nasal deformities, which may be congenital or caused by injuries or accidents.
This surgery can also correct nasal obstructions or aesthetic defects. Although results are visible almost immediately, swelling and bruising may persist for several weeks or even 6 to 12 months.
As mentioned, recovery is a faster process that may last one to two weeks, after which the patient can resume daily activities while avoiding strenuous exercise and physical exertion. During this stage, it is important to remember to follow the surgeon’s instructions, take prescribed medications that will help reduce pain and swelling, and use a protective nasal splint.
An essential part of the recovery process after ultrasonic rhinoplasty is attending follow-up appointments scheduled by the surgeon to confirm that the surgery is progressing as expected.
Ideal candidates for ultrasonic rhinoplasty
Patient evaluation
The surgeon will review the patient’s medical history during an initial consultation to ensure they are at least 18 years old and will conduct an evaluation to confirm that their overall health is optimal.
It is also essential that the patient does not smoke, as this condition affects recovery. Smokers may experience longer postoperative periods and, in more severe cases, increased risk of complications.
Additionally, it is important to know that the ideal candidate for ultrasonic rhinoplasty is someone who needs the nasal bone to be sculpted with significant precision, such as those with a dorsal hump or those who need to smooth out certain irregularities in the bone that forms the nasal bridge.
Expectations and reality
In addition to these physical aspects, a suitable candidate is someone who has realistic expectations about the results this type of surgery can offer. They should also be aware that, despite the surgery being less invasive, some bruising and swelling will still appear, and a recovery period is necessary.
Risks and considerations
Possible complications
As with any surgical procedure, ultrasonic rhinoplasty also carries risks and complications. Some of the possible complications a patient may experience include:
- Infections. These may be evidenced by redness of the skin in the surgical area, as well as swelling, pain, and discharge.
- Bleeding. In some cases, mild bleeding may occur that does not represent a high risk and can be managed with medication. However, if there is heavy bleeding, consult with your surgeon immediately.
- Breathing problems. Due to swelling in the area, some patients may experience moderate breathing difficulties, but if you experience any more severe condition, speak with your doctor as soon as possible.
- Undesired results. There is a possibility, though low, that results may not be as expected and the nose may be asymmetrical or an undesired size, either too large or too small.
How to choose an appropriate surgeon
The key is to seek a qualified, certified professional with experience in rhinoplasty Madrid, as this is a delicate and important surgery for facial harmony and improving your appearance.
Choosing a good surgeon ensures you can obtain the best possible results. Additionally, it is important to inquire about the techniques used and learn about the experiences of previous patients.
You can contact us and request a free assessment to find out if you are a candidate for ultrasonic rhinoplasty. We are specialists in aesthetic surgery.
Frequently asked questions about ultrasonic rhinoplasty
Common patient questions
During your initial consultation with the surgeon, there are certain questions that should not be overlooked, as they allow you to better understand the surgeon, the procedure itself, recovery, and the risks and complications. Some of these questions are:
- What is the surgeon’s experience, training, and the techniques used when performing ultrasonic rhinoplasty?
- What type of anesthesia does the surgeon typically use, and which would be recommended in your particular case?
- How long will the surgery take?
- How much time will you need to recover in the hospital, and how long will recovery at home take?
- What are the possible risks and complications of the procedure?
- What results can you expect?
Clearing up myths and doubts
One of the main myths surrounding ultrasonic rhinoplasty concerns the level of pain it may cause. Some may believe it is a painless procedure, but it does produce pain, though less than traditional rhinoplasty.
Some also think that this type of procedure may carry less risk, but the reality is that as it is surgery, it carries the same risks of infection, swelling, and bleeding as any other. Some mistakenly believe that ultrasonic rhinoplasty can correct breathing problems, but what is possible is to improve nasal function; however, for breathing issues it is better to consult a specialist.
Conclusion
Without a doubt, ultrasonic rhinoplasty offers advantages such as precision in results, is less aggressive, you will experience fewer postoperative discomforts, and enjoy faster recovery. For this reason, it presents itself as an ideal alternative to achieve a symmetrical, well-defined, and personalized nose. Just remember that before making a decision, you should first choose a good surgeon, like our specialists. Book your appointment for an initial consultation to confirm that you are a candidate for this type of procedure and that your expectations are realistic.
