When It Comes to Your Nose, There is No Substitute for Experience

The nose embodies “form and function” for a person’s face. It is the most prominent and important feature of your appearance, affecting both your facial symmetry and balance. Your nose is deeply personal because, in addition to being one of your most identifiable features, it reflects ethnicity and family history. At the same time, its critical function is to smell and breath.  You may want your nose to look good, but it is equally important for it to work properly. 

Rhinoplasty or nasal surgery is among the most challenging and technical procedures for plastic surgeons. The nose contains a variety of tissue types and is a non-linear three-dimensional structure. Being able to restructure and re-shape the nose in a natural way requires deep understanding, skill, and practice. To achieve the most positive results, prospective patients should look for an experienced rhinoplasty surgeon, not just an experienced plastic surgeon. 

Your choice of surgeon is the most critical factor in any successful nasal surgery, and it is vital to pick someone with extensive training and experience. Dr. James Shire of Shire Facial Plastic Surgery is one of the most renowned facial plastic surgeons in the country and was recently voted Best of the Best Cosmetic and Plastic Surgeon in Chattanooga. Dr. Shire has more than 30 years of experience in nasal surgery and was a contributing author to the Open Structure Rhinoplasty textbook. “Nasal surgery is a complex operation with highly visible results,” Dr. Shire says. “Wouldn’t you want something this personal and consequential in the hands of a professional who has performed this procedure hundreds of times?” 

Experienced surgeons should make their patients feel completely comfortable and be able to address their concerns and desires. During consultation, options will be reviewed, questions can be answered, a complete and frank explanation of the results will be discussed, and the process of healing and recovery will be presented.

Because every nose is different, rhinoplasty surgeons may employ different surgical techniques to produce the desired result. In the past, rhinoplasty surgeries were predominantly reduction in nature. However, modern surgeries take a more structural approach so that the surgery does not make the nose artificial looking, avoiding the “nose-job” look. A rhinoplasty surgeon should be able to show you what your nose will look like following surgery using an imager. Additionally, you should have the opportunity to view numerous before and after photos of the surgeon’s previous results. This can help patients understand how the nose will look in the months and years following their rhinoplasty. 

Considering nasal surgery can certainly be a life-enhancing decision, however potential rhinoplasty patients must take care to have realistic expectations. Every patient is treated individually based on their situation. Since everyone is different, no two procedures are the same. Doing your research is one of the most important steps you can take to ensure a successful outcome. Rhinoplasty can significantly lift self-image, bolster self-confidence, and help patients achieve a natural appearance.