The nose is important for us to be able to breathe comfortably. Everyone knows how miserable we feel when we are congested with a head cold. Some of us, unfortunately, feel congested all the time or during times of increased need such as exercise. The nose is also important as it forms a major aesthetic highlight of the face. An unattractive nose can distract the shape of our eyes, our smile, and our skin quality.
Precise analysis of the underlying cause of a “big nose” or “unattractive nose” is important to avoid the appearance of an unnatural or poorly functioning nose after surgery. The goal is to reshape the nose and put it into proper balance with the remaining features of the face. There are certain limitations of course. The nose is not made of clay that can be trimmed down or shaped at will. It is made of living tissue, which is unique to each of us. The nose rests on the skull. The opening on which it rests can only be narrowed so much without compromising breathing. The cartilage has a memory. This means it remembers how crooked or misshapen it was. Although we have some tricks to maintain it in a straighter orientation, it can sometimes revert somewhat towards where it was. The more crooked a nose is to begin with, the more difficult it is to maintain its shape long term. The skin overlying the nose is important as well.
Fortunately, within the last few years, a number of products have become available that can be placed under the skin during an office visit. These products are used in concert with one another, and with Botox to harmoniously transfigure the face and restore volume to areas in need.
Superficial fillers include, but are not limited to, hyaluronic acid derivatives: Restylane, Perlane, Juvaderm Ultra, and Juvaderm Ultra Plus. These injections are placed below the surface of the skin and restore volume and fullness to the upper skin to correct moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds. These products are injected in the office with topical or local anesthesia and can be done within 15 to 20 minutes.
Deeper fillers can be used to restore greater amounts of volume loss in the face and hands. These products are slowly converted into the body’s own collagen over time and tend to last longer than superficial fillers. These products can full sagging cheeks, deep folds near mouth, follows near the eyes, as well as many other areas. Sculptra and Radiesse are injected into the deep dermis, providing considerable volume to the areas of interest.
As with all facial cosmetic procedures, a thorough consultation is the best way to ensure that your questions are answered prior to therapy. Explaining your options and bringing the process together is an integral part of your initial consultation with Dr. Smith. He can further explain the benefits of each product and its desired effect. Dr. Smith personally administers each product in a meticulous manner to ensure outstanding results.