Posted on February 27, 2010 in Facial Plastic Surgery, Revision Rhinoplasty, Rhinoplasty
Question: I had an ear graft done as part of a complex revision rhinoplasty. Is it normal for my ear to hurt more than my nose?
Answer: Thank you for your inquiry. The answer is yes. It is quite normal to have more attention drawn to the ear as a result of discomfort and pain. The ear is quite sensitive being innervated by many sensory nerves. Therefore, it is expected to hurt more than the nose does following rhinoplasty. In most cases of rhinoplasty and revision rhinoplasty when there is no ear grafting, pain is actually very mild and usually requires only a few days of low dose Vicodin or equivalent. Best regards, Dr. Hilinski.
Posted on in Facial Plastic Surgery, Revision Rhinoplasty, Rhinoplasty
This is a frequent question that I get asked from potential rhinoplasty and revision rhinoplasty patients. Normally most rhinoplasty patients will look ’supermarket’ presentable in about 10-14 days. I will remove the sutures, tape and cast (if placed) 5-6 days following your surgery. The nose looks swollen that day but, in general, rhinoplasty patients can appreciate the changes that were made even at that point in time. A significant improvement will be seen between that day and the 10-14 day mark to the point that most patients feel comfortable in the public eye. To visually see what I am talking about, the following link is provided so you can see one of our San Diego rhinoplasty patients at 5-6 days out from his rhinoplasty procedure. http://www.drhilinski.com/videos.htm
Posted on in Facial Plastic Surgery, Revision Rhinoplasty, Rhinoplasty
The short answer to this question is – yes, if you have symptoms of nasal blockage that are not improved with medications. If you are found to have evidence of a deviated septum, or crooked septum, on examination by a facial plastic surgery or otolaryngology specialist, they will likely recommend surgical repair. In order for your insurance company to cover these services, your surgeon will submit paperwork documenting their opinion and recommending septoplasty surgery. If preauthorized (meaning the insurance company offers preliminary approval), then most patients proceed with the septoplasty and have the expenses covered by their insurance company. Of course, as the patient, you should be well aware of any and all restrictions and responsibilities related to your healthcare policy. Hope this helps. Dr. Hilinski.
Posted on in Facial Plastic Surgery, Revision Rhinoplasty, Rhinoplasty
Question: What are steroid injections and why are they used for rhinoplasty and revision rhinoplasty patients?
Answer: Steroid injections refer to an injectable corticosteroid (called steroid for short) solution that is used to decrease swelling and dissolve unwanted scar tissue. I use steroids quite commonly to help during the healing process following rhinoplasty and revision rhinoplasty. If taping the nose does not address the issue sufficiently and/or quickly enough, I might recommend a steroid injection to reduce an unwanted contour or prominence. Contrary to popular belief, steroid injections can be used even very late in the rhinoplasty healing process (like 6-12 months out).
Posted on in Artefill, Facial Plastic Surgery
Artefill, made by Suneva Medical in San Diego, is the only FDA approved permanent injectable filler on the market. Artefill is a fantastic injectable filler product that is a great alternative to Restylane, Perlane, Juvederm, Radiesse and Sculptra. It is used very much like the other fillers for smoothing out unwanted facial lines, creases and wrinkles. The one exception is the lip where Artefill should not be used. You do have to get skin tested before getting Artefill but it is highly unusual that patients respond to the skin test. If you are thinking of having a permanent dermal filler for soft tissue augmentation of your face, just give us a call. Let my staff know you are interested in Artefill. Look forward to seeing you.
Dr. Hilinski