DermaMatrix : Best Graft Material for Rhinoplasty

DermaMatrix Acellular Dermis may provide a new option in rhinoplasty technology for surgeons. DermaMatrix, which was introduced to the surgical market in 2006, is made from acellular dermis, an innovative technological breakthrough substance which has been used as an alternative to Alloderm in rhinoplasty by Denver plastic surgeon Dr. Jeffrey Raval. Dr. Raval who presented the technique at the January 30, 2010 Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery (AACS) in Orlando Florida.

Dr. Raval reports that “rhinoplasty poses a number of challenges- the ideal graft material being one of them.” Traditionally, Alloderm has been used as the grafting material in rhinoplasty surgeries. Unfortunately, despite its widespread use, Dr. Raval believes that Alloderm has not proven to be the “ideal grafting material” for several reasons. First, before being used, it has a short shelf life, and must be refrigerated. When used in a surgery, it requires a long rehydration time and displays reabsorption characteristics. DermaMatrix is derived from donated skin where the cells are removed to minimize inflammation or rejection at the surgical site and the acellular dermis is then freeze-dried for preservation.

DermaMatrix provides a better alternative. Dr. Raval reports that it rehydrates quickly, is uniformly soft and pliable after being rehydrated, passes the USP standard for sterility, is bacterially inactivated, has a three year shelf life at room temperature, has greater tensile strength, has a 90 percent consistency of thickness, is easier to surgically manipulate, and displays less reabsorption characteristics than Alloderm. These many advantages make it both easier to use and better for patients and can help the effects of rhinoplasty last longer.

Dr. Raval, who presented DermaMatrix at AACS, is a double board certified plastic surgeon and is regarded as the premiere revision rhinoplasty surgeon throughout the Western states. In addition to performing rhinoplasty revisions, which are often regarded as more complex than original rhinoplasty surgery due to the presence of scar tissue, Dr. Raval also treats the head and neck and performs both non-invasive and surgical procedures.

Source : American Health and Beauty

London Welbeck Hospital Offers Rhinoplasty

Reputed and well known cosmetic surgery hospital, London Welbeck Hospital is now offering great offers on cosmetic surgery. You can now get Breast Augmentation or Rhinoplasty done from only £3299. This offer is currently being offered as part of their 'New year - New You' campaign.

The purpose of the breast implant is to push your own breast tissue up and
outwards, resulting in a natural look, feel and behaviour of the breast. Implants come in various shapes, sizes and materials. The breast augmentation surgeon will discuss with you the most suitable shape and size for you. It is important to take into consideration your personal expectations as well as your current breast and body shape.

The London Welbeck Hospital in Welbeck Street, City of Westminster, London was established in the early 20th century and now specialises in cosmetic surgery.
Over the years, London Welbeck Hospital has had many clients returning happily with their service. Situated in the heart of the London medical scene, this is a welcoming environment, where our dedicated staff are friendly, professional and committed to providing an excellent standard of care for patients, from the moment they walk in at the reception, to the moment they leave us.

Registered with The Healthcare Commission, we work with some of the most prominent surgeons in the UK. Our surgeons are not only highly qualified but also vastly experienced and innovative.

To find out more or to contact London Welbeck Hospital, please visit their website at www.londonwelbeckhospital.co.uk

London Welbeck Hospital offers complete cosmetic surgery treatments including breast augmentation, eyelid surgery, ear surgery, breast implants and many other cosmetic treatments.

Heidi Montag admits she's addicted to plastic surgery

Heidi Montag, star of MTV's The Hills but best known for an apparent starvation for attention, has confessed that she is addicted to plastic surgery. This is bad enough when we're talking about aging starlets, but Heidi was a beautiful girl of 21 when she had her first surgeries, a breast augmentation to a C cup and rhinoplasty. Her recent surgeries, at the age of 23, included liposuction and buttocks augmentation, an "upgrade" for her "boob job," a chin reduction, pinning back her ears. And yet she says, "I'm just starting," she says. "Let's just say there's a lot of maintenance. Nobody ages perfectly, so I plan to keep using surgery to make me as perfect as I can be. Because, for me, the surgery is always so rewarding."

I have been saying that Saturn in Libra will test our standards of beauty, but I couldn't have anticipated this. In a society where teens are given cosmetic surgeries for graduation gifts, reality shows portray ordinary people receiving extreme makeovers, and an MTV show called "I Want a Famous Face" turns unique individuals into clones of their favorite movie star - Saturn arrives in Libra not a moment too soon.

But the question is, will teens look at Heidi's makeover from beautiful girl to plastic sex toy and be horrified, or will they want to emulate her? In any case, the discussion over how far is too far has certainly begun.

Source : blog.beliefnet.com

Rhinoplasty News : Injectables for Post Surgical Operations

Rhinoplasty, sometimes referred to as a “nose job,” can improve the shape, size and general appearance of the nose. However, imperfections following rhinoplasty are common, which is why some surgeons have turned to injectable fillers as a means of smoothing out irregularities and asymmetries that remain after initial rhinoplasty surgery. An article appearing in the November/December issue of Aesthetic Surgery Journal, a publication of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), discusses the potential benefits and risks of soft tissue fillers as an adjunct to surgical reshaping of the nose.

Injectable fillers allow surgeons to correct post-surgical imperfections without the expense, anesthetic risk, or recovery downtime involved with additional surgery
According to ASAPS statistics, rhinoplasty is among the top five surgical cosmetic procedures, with 152,434 procedures performed in 2008. With the growing availability, variety and popularity of filler materials, it stands to reason that the potential use of these products in conjunction with nose reshaping would be explored.

“Injectable fillers allow surgeons to correct post-surgical imperfections without the expense, anesthetic risk, or recovery downtime involved with additional surgery,” says Steven Dayan, MD, one of the ASJ article’s three authors and clinical assistant professor in the Department of Otolaryngology, University of Illinois Medical Center in Chicago.

Hyaluronic acid (HA), calcium hydroxylapatite gel (CaHA), and liquid silicone (all used off-label) have been used to treat nasal deformities with varying degrees of success. Silicone is generally not recommended, however, because of the greater risk of severe complications such as nodules, cellulitis and ulceration. “The use of any soft tissue filler in the nose should always be approached with caution and with thorough consideration of a patient’s individual circumstances,” says Dr. Dayan.

As with all injectable filler treatments, technique is paramount to success. Limiting the use of fillers to the top and sides of the nose while generally avoiding the base and tip, and placing the fillers at the proper depth in the skin, are important for minimizing complications such as a bumpy appearance, soft tissue damage, or compromising of the blood vessels in the nose.

While soft tissue fillers may be an effective treatment for certain post-surgical deformities, they are generally not recommended as a first-line option for nasal reshaping. Neither are they recommended for patients considering revision surgery, since persistent material in the nose may complicate a future procedure. “Fillers are no substitute for excellent surgical results,” cautions Dr. Dayan. “Rhinoplasty surgeons must continue to strive for perfection in the operating room.”

“Injecting fillers into the nose requires a high level of skill as well as a thorough understanding of nasal structures and soft tissues,” says ASAPS President Renato Saltz, MD. “To minimize the risk of poor results or serious complications, patients should seek treatment only by a board-certified physician with relevant training and experience.”

This rhinoplasty news article came from this link.
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I hope this injectables will not pose any health threats to rhinoplasty patients. What do you think?

Senate Democrats Would no longer tax Rhinoplasty

Your fears of a 5 percent tariff on butt lifts, rhinoplasty, and injectables like Botox and Restylane are over! Senate Democrats have dropped the so-called "Botax," likely after major uproar from the well-moneyed cosmetic surgery industry, which was supposed to raise $5 billion. But don't think Dems have entirely thrown out the idea of taxing America's addiction to aesthetic improvements: The cast of Jersey Shore is about to see their tanning experience get hit with a hike.

In place of Botax is a 10 percent tax on indoor tanning. Or, as the Senate's bill refers to it, the tax will be "intended for the irradiation of an individual by ultraviolet radiation, with wavelengths in air between 200 and 400 nanometers, to induce skin tanning." Which, as far as we're concerned, is a tax on WHITE PEOPLE!

Looks like spray-ons it will be.

SOURCE

Rhinoplasty Stories : Camilla Belle

Young actress Camilla Belle may be most recognizable for her heavy dark eyebrows, but Make Me Heal is more interested in the possible nose job the brunette beauty may have had to achieve star status.

At 23-years old, Camilla has achieved a lot, becoming an in demand actress and dating a Jonas brother. But has she also had a rhinoplasty to help her rise to fame?

In addition to thinning her eyebrows as she ages, it also looks as though Camilla’s nose may have thinned out a bit too. However, it could be a result of clever makeup application, rather than plastic surgery.

Manhattan plastic surgeon Dr David Shafer says, “Camilla Belle dose not need anything in particular. Her nose does look a bit narrower in the pictures, but it is unclear whether she has had surgery. “

On the other hand, Camilla’s newly thinned nose could be the result of a clever plastic surgeon doing a well-done nose job.



Plastic surgeon Dr Sherrell J Aston says, “From the photographs I can see, it appears that Ms. Belle has had a Rhinoplasty. Her facial changes are mostly visible when looking at frontal photographs. One can see that the width of her bridge is much more narrow now. Her surgeon also refined her tip and nostrils. I think that her plastic surgeon did an excellent job with achieving a natural look.”

Whether or not Camilla has been under the knife, she looks great and is sure to continue to rise to the top of Hollywood’s elite.

SOURCE

Rib Cartilage Grafts in Rhinoplasty

Rib cartilage from human donors is well tolerated as a grafting material in nasal plastic surgery and yields positive functional, structural and cosmetic results, even in complex cases, according to a report in the November/December issue of Archives of Facial Plastic Surgery, one of the JAMA/Archives journals.

"The search for the ideal nasal implant remains an ongoing effort," the authors write as background information in the article. "We desire a substance that is readily available in large quantities; resists infection and absorption; is completely integrated into host tissues; causes little patient morbidity [illness or injury]; and can be molded, shaped or carved with ease." The patient's own cartilage is often the preferred choice, but is sometimes too thin, there is an insufficient quantity or it may cause problems at the site from which it is removed. Irradiated homologous costal cartilage -- donor tissue from human ribs that has been treated with radiation to decrease the chances of an immune response or resorption once placed in a donor -- could serve as an alternative.

Russell W. H. Kridel, M.D., of the University of Texas Medical School at Houston and Facial Plastic Surgery Associates, Houston, and colleagues reviewed the medical charts of 357 patients who underwent primary or revision rhinoplasty (nasal plastic surgery) using autologous costal cartilage as the principal graft material between 1984 and 2008. The patients were an average of 37 years old and were followed up for an average of 13.5 years (and for a range of four days to 24 years). The 1,025 homologous costal cartilage grafts and 373 other grafts used were evaluated for warping, infection, resorption (being absorbed back into surrounding tissues) with or without infection, mobility and extrusion (forcing out). Forty-two patients also completed a satisfaction evaluation.

The total complication rate related to irradiated homologous costal cartilage grafts was 3.25 percent, including 10 warped grafts, nine infections, five cases of infective resorption, five non-infective resorptions and three cases of graft mobility. Among the nine cases of infection, two patients received grafts using homologous costal cartilage alone and seven in combination with other materials, so the infection rate related to the use of homologous costal cartilage alone was two of 1,025 (0.2 percent).

"Not only did very few complications occur following the use of 1,025 irradiated homologous costal cartilage grafts in 357 patients after 386 rhinoplasties over 24 years (rate, 3.25 percent), but the rate of complications was no greater than rhinoplasty complication rates when autologous [the patient's own] cartilage grafts are used," the authors write.

During an average follow-up of 7.9 years, 94.2 percent of patients reported being satisfied with the results, considering categories such as their appearance, ability to breathe and quality of life. The irradiated homologous costal cartilage was not associated with any allergic reactions or systemic diseases and also proved to be reliable in patients with autoimmune diseases and in those with complex cases involving repairs of perforated septal tissue.

"The results indicate safety and reliability and justify the convenient use of irradiated homologous costal cartilage grafts for primary and revision rhinoplasty without creating donor site morbidity," or damage to the area from which an individual's own cartilage is harvested, the authors write. "Irradiated homograft cartilage grafts should be considered as an alternative or even a primary grafting material when the patient does not have adequate quantities of septal or auricular [ear] cartilage remaining to provide the correction or when the shape or quality of such an autologous cartilage does not adequately provide the structure required."

Editorial: Papers Highlight Science of Facial Plastic Surgery

"As we begin our second decade of publication, the Archives of Facial Plastic Surgery has evolved but maintained its original vision," writes Wayne F. Larrabee Jr., editor of the journal, in an accompanying editorial. "Two significant articles in this issue epitomize our mission to 'promote the art and science of facial plastic surgery by publishing significant peer-reviewed articles in all aspects of reconstructive and cosmetic surgery of the head and neck."

"The first article -- 'The Technical and Anatomical Aspects of the World's First Near-Total Human Face and Maxilla Transplant' by Alam and colleagues -- presents the first successful combined face and maxilla transplant, which was performed on a patient who had undergone 23 previous reconstructive procedures," Dr. Larrabee writes. "The second article -- 'Long-Term Use and Follow-Up of Irradiated Homologous Costal Cartilage Grafts in the Nose' -- epitomizes the meticulous clinical observation that we all should strive to achieve in our practices."

"As we strive to fulfill our mission statement to publish 'the most accurate information available,' the quality of the clinical science in our manuscripts becomes progressively more important," Dr. Larrabee concludes. "Facial plastic surgery is an art and craft, but results must be reported based on sound clinical science."

SOURCE

Rhinoplasty common in Turkey

In Turkey, rhinoplasty is the most common operation in the field of facial plastic surgery and has gained increasing popularity especially within the past decade. There are many reasons for this increase. First, traditional Turkish noses are usually big, with humps of varying degrees. Second, image has become very important, especially among younger adults (those aged 18 to 25 years). Third, the number of surgeons performing this operation in Turkey has increased exponentially within the past decade. Fourth, the costs of the operation have also decreased, so rhinoplasty is no longer an operation only for rich people in Turkey.

Turkey has about 72 million inhabitants, and it is estimated that there are an additional 5 million Turks living outside the country. Throughout history, this region has been a cradle of many civilizations and a melting pot for people from many countries. Therefore, although it is almost impossible

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Rhinoplasty Risks

Although rhinoplasty is a very common surgery, there are nevertheless risks that should be taken into account by anyone considering the procedure. The dangers of rhinoplasty - such as permanent nerve damage after rhinoplasty - are few, but like every invasive procedure, rhinoplasty will always have its potential problems. Fortunately, most nose surgery procedures are problem-free, but patients should educate themselves on potential nose job risks and speak with a surgeon before moving forward with the procedure.

Risks Associated with Rhinoplasty Surgery

There are risks associated with any surgery, such as bleeding, infection, adverse reaction to anesthesia, and hematoma (when blood collects under the skin; a hematoma has to be removed surgically).

The specific dangers of rhinoplasty/nose surgery include numbness, nosebleeds, scarring at the base of the nose (this may occur when the nose surgery is an "open rhinoplasty"), bursting of small blood vessels on the surface of the skin, swelling, permanent nerve damage after rhinoplasty, or under- or over-correction that necessitates secondary/revision rhinoplasty.

Before your nose surgery, you will consult with your doctor about the possible risks; the doctor will also address any questions and concerns you may have. Following your surgeon's instructions for your pre- and post- nose surgery care will help to avoid almost any problem and greatly diminish the risk factors.
Nose Surgery Recovery and Problems with Depression

Immediately after their nose surgery, patients may feel discouraged with the results of their procedure. Because there can be considerable swelling, the initial effects of rhinoplasty may not be apparent for weeks and the final result may not be attained for many months. However, as the nose heals and the swelling subsides, most patients feel that their rhinoplasty goals have been achieved. Patience, a thorough understanding of the procedure, and allowing ample rhinoplasty recovery time are important for both surgical success and patient satisfaction. After the full recovery time, a patient will be better able to see the results of their much anticipated nose surgery, and will most likely be problem-free and very pleased with their new look.

SOURCE

India Offers Rhinoplasty

Medical tourism in India offer Rhinoplasty in Goa combined with a first class holiday for what you would expect to pay only for the surgery back at home.

With high success rate of cosmetic surgery and better sunshine and weather has made people across the globe to come to India for getting medical care, not to forget the cost benefits and quality at par with international standards. Rhinoplasty in Goa India is done based upon dependable international standards that are comprehensively applied by surgeons and doctors, all of whom been formally trained in the UK or USA. Medical tourism in India aims to be the world leader in organized international cosmetic surgery holidays at Goa and have invested considerable time and money in ensuring that you receive nothing other than the best, most affordable quality surgical care possible, in the most relaxing environments, where you are fully looked after by our professional staff.

Rhinoplasty, otherwise known as nose job is a surgical procedure used to sculpt the nose to improve its original shape and size. It is an elective surgery used to modify nasal tip, to reduce the dorsal hump, to narrow nostrils, to reduce the width of the nose and to make other such nasal corrections. Each face has its own proportions, volumes, angles and outlines and Rhinoplasty can only tweak the features of one's face to make one's appearance better. The procedure is generally done on an outpatient basis and takes around two hours for the procedure to be completed. Since incisions are made inside the nose, only light scars are left after surgery which will fade in about two weeks time. The patient will not experience severe pain after surgery and even that will be compensated through medications

Rhinoplasty calls for the skill of the plastic surgeon. India has got both technology and skilled doctors who have successfully performed Rhinoplasty in India at a cost which is less than half when compared with western countries. Rhinoplasty in Goa India is provided at some of the leading organizations in the world providing high quality cosmetic surgery by qualified and experienced American and British board certified surgeons working in state of the art facilities. The surgery is combined with a luxurious stay in a beautiful resort environment of Goa- the perfect place to fully relax, recover and recuperate body and mind before returning home. Beautiful Goa India has a reputation that precedes itself as far as medical tourism is cornered. With skillful surgeons, rock-bottom prices, and up-to-date technology, India is an easy favorite for many medical tourism travelers; especially those looking for beautifying procedures.

To get more info on Rhinoplasty in Goa India visit us at www.tour2india4health.com. Or mail at enquiry@tour2india4health.com or you can call us at +91-9371136499, +91-9860755000

Current Trends in Rhinoplasty : An Expert Interview with Sherrell J. Aston MD

Rhinoplasties are increasingly popular procedures. A complex procedure, the rhinoplasty has in recent years seen changes of opinion in how this surgery should be performed, such as more attention to protecting or enhancing architectural integrity. Medscape's Pippa Wysong spoke to Sherrell J. Aston, MD, who offered his thoughts on the state of the art in rhinoplasty. Dr. Aston is Director and Chairman of the Department of Plastic Surgery at Manhattan Eye, Ear and Throat Hospital in New York, NY. He is also Professor of Plastic Surgery at the New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, and is certified by the American Board of Surgery (ABS) and the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS).

Medscape: Rhinoplasties are becoming more popular. Why is this, and who is having all of these rhinoplasties?

Dr. Aston: Most rhinoplasties are performed to change the cosmetic appearance of the nose. Most are performed in teenagers and young adults, but increasing numbers have been performed on people ranging from their 30s to their 60s. Breathing problems are frequently corrected during rhinoplasty.

Medscape: Are women still the main patient population for rhinoplasties?

Dr. Aston: Yes; however, about 15% of the noses in my practice belong to men. The incidence of men having rhinoplasties is a little higher than the incidence of men having facelifts. A large percentage of men who want rhinoplasties are in their late teens and early 20s. In men we perform rhinoplasties at a slightly older age than we do in women because a boy's face matures a little later.

Medscape:People might ask their surgeons whether it's possible to have a limited procedure, eg, take away the bump or change the tip. Is that realistic?

Dr. Aston: Only a small percentage of noses will look good with a limited procedure. The appearance of the nose depends on the relationship between all of the parts. If you change the tip, eg, make it smaller, it reduces some of the tip support and has the potential to make the profile look taller. On the other hand, if you just take a bump off the nose without touching the tip, it's possible that the tip will look bigger than it did before. When you alter one area, it influences the appearance of other areas of the nose.

Medscape: Are there any exceptions?

Dr. Aston: Yes; some patients have small bumps on their profiles (a thin tip with good projection), and you can just sand down the bump. Some noses have wide tips with good tip projection, and the patient's profile won't be reduced. A small number of patients don't need profile reductions or tip reductions, and you can do limited procedures. Today's rhinoplasty is more conservative than it was years ago.

Medscape:In what ways is rhinoplasty more conservative these days?

Dr. Aston: Today it's important to maintain architectural integrity because noses change over time. Twenty years after surgery, noses don't look the way they did 5 years after surgery. The skin sleeve of the nose eventually gets thinner. When I say skin, I'm including the fat layer and muscle overlying the cartilage and bones. Many rhinoplasties that were done 30-40 years ago and looked good a year after surgery, don't look as good today because less attention was paid to preserving architectural integrity.

Medscape:Preserving architectural integrity -- is that a state-of-the-art message?

Dr. Aston: Absolutely. State of the art is maintaining architectural integrity in both the bony and cartilaginous framework of the nose. In the patient lacking natural architectural integrity of the nose, we add it by borrowing cartilage from the septum, a rib, or possibly from the ear.

Medscape: What are some ways to preserve architecture? Does this commonly need to be done?

Dr. Aston: Yes, even in routine rhinoplasties. A spreader graft is often performed to maintain the dorsal lines of the nose. It maintains support for breathing in the midvault, gives an aesthetically pleasing contour line, and prevents a pinched look in the middle portion of the nose. We'll add strut grafts to the columella to maintain support of the tip and to give and maintain tip projection. Plus, we use various small cartilage grafts within the tip of the nose to give contour. The goal is to have the nose look normal, and function well.

Medscape:Is it possible to operate on the nose without leaving scars?

Dr. Aston: First, there are 2 basic types of rhinoplasties. One is closed or endonasal rhinoplasty. Incisions are made inside the nose to release the nose from its architectural framework, so one can work on the tip cartilage (the cartilage in the midvault of the nose), the nasal bones, and the septum. In my practice, a vast majority of rhinoplasties are performed with the closed technique. The second technique is open rhinoplasty, which requires an incision on the columella. The open rhinoplasty is indicated when the anatomy of the nose is more complex. It is also used in secondary rhinoplasties in which the procedure requires more direct exposure to the tip cartilage than you can get with a closed approach. You can obtain exposure to the nasal anatomy with either technique.

Medscape:Isn't open rhinoplasty more common than closed?

Dr. Aston: Probably, although closed is starting to regain ground. Although open rhinoplasty gives more direct exposure to the nasal anatomy, it leaves a visible scar. In most cases the scar heals well, but this is not always the case. In the past 20 years, the emphasis in plastic surgery residencies has been on open rhinoplasty, partly because you can see the anatomy more easily than with closed rhinoplasty. With closed rhinoplasty you need good 3-dimensional thinking to understand the anatomy and how the changes that you make will look afterward. Some noses have unusual anatomic situations that make open rhinoplasty the preferred technique. Personally, I think a lot of open rhinoplasties would be better if performed closed. Closed rhinoplasties take less time to heal. Open is more invasive and has more swelling.

Medscape: How do you make the tip of the nose look smaller?

Dr. Aston: Traditionally, making the tip smaller involved removing a portion of the tip cartilage. Today, a large number of tips are made smaller by removing very little of the tip cartilage -- sometimes none. Instead, you resculpt, reshape, and reposition the tip cartilage. For instance, if you have a broad bulbous tip, and the alar cartilages don't meet at the midline, you can remove small parts of the cartilages, but also change the angle of the tip cartilage so that the domes are made more acute. You can suture the domes of the 2 cartilages together to reposition them and make the tip smaller, which also makes the tip more triangular in shape and provides a more desired contour. Simply resecting cartilage in many tips won't do that. Many noses require cartilage grafts placed in the tip to support and project the tip. In some noses you actually make the nose look smaller by placing the grafts in such a way that it increases the tip projection, and supports the sidewalls. There are numerous options.

Medscape: What happens to the skin of the nose when you make the cartilaginous and bony framework smaller?

Dr. Aston: The skin of the nose contracts to conform to the bone and cartilage underneath. Removing skin has no place in routine cosmetic rhinoplasty. The scars would be unacceptable. You should leave the skin and let it shrink down. Skin type and thickness play a huge role in the final result.

Medscape: What's done to make breathing better with a rhinoplasty?

Dr. Aston: It depends on the etiology of the breathing problem. Repair of a deviated septum is common. If patients present with compromised valves, spreader grafts are used to maintain the internal valves of the nose. Sometimes internal valves could become compromised as part of the reduction rhinoplasty, but spreader grafts keep them open. Not infrequently, we alter the inferior turbinates to help open up the airway. Some noses need cartilage grafts to support the nasal tip and prevent the nostrils from collapsing.

Medscape: What does it mean to break the nose during rhinoplasty? Is it necessary?

Dr. Aston: It's necessary in probably 90% of rhinoplasties. When you lower the profile, you usually need to reduce the width of the base of the nose. A lateral osteotomy divides the ascending process of the maxilla on the sides of the nose so that you can adjust the base of the nose. If you lower the profile and don't narrow the sidewalls, then it will look too wide. Osteotomies can lead to bruising, but are much less traumatic than they were years ago.

Medscape: Do you have any general tips for physicians with regard to follow-up of rhinoplasty patients?

Dr. Aston: All noses take a minimum of 1 year for the swelling to go down. That doesn't mean that the nose doesn't look good 2 weeks after surgery, but refinements in the appearance occur over time. In patients with thicker skin it can take longer. It's important to convey this to patients.

Medscape: You've given everyone a lot to think about. Thanks for taking time to speak to Medscape.

SOURCE : medscape.com

The Miss Plastic contest finals take place in Hungary

The Miss Plastic contest is a beauty contest with a difference: only those who have had plastic surgery can take part. Indeed, several of thh participants have been thrown out of other contests after it was found that they were less natural than their competitors.

Fun though the whole idea of the Miss Plastic contest is it's not really about the women or their looks at all. It's a showcase for the skills of the plastic surgeons. For example, it's isn't how breasts look in a swimsuit or an evening gown that excites the judges. It's whether there are any visible scars to betray the augmentation. As might be imagined, competition to be a judge is fierce given the detailed examinations of the contestants which are necessary.

As well as fun the Miss Plastic contest is also amusing: the at one time front runner is currently confined to a wheelchair as a result of her surgery. No, nothing went wrong with the actual surgery:

Alexandra had just got through the breast examination stage - where the judges had congratulated her surgeon, Dr Tamas Rozsos, on the lack of any surgical scars.

She toppled over on the catwalk and tore a ligament in her foot. Onlooker Laszlo Feher said: 'Everyone was admiring her bodywork and then she started to topple - no-one was near enough to reach her and she fall badly. She was taken to hospital by ambulance.'

A friend said: 'She had not got used to the extra weight on top and her new hair extensions got in her eyes - she just lost her balance and tore a ligament in her foot badly.'

Not, perhaps, the very finest advertisement for plastic surgery.

SOURCE: www.examiner.com

Are You a Good Candidate for Rhinoplasty Surgery?

The development of rhinoplasty occurred primarily as a plastic surgery technique to restore a proportional nose shape, or to correct for constricted breathing, whether after injury or due to a birth defect. In addition to these corrective procedures, surgeons now use cosmetic plastic surgery to perform subtle aesthetic changes to nose size and shape.

The Rhinoplasty Procedure

Rhinoplasty, or nose reshaping, is one of the most common cosmetic plastic surgery procedures. It is the second most popular surgical cosmetic procedure in the United States (according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons). Rhinoplasty reshapes the nose for both aesthetic and corrective purposes. Rhinoplasty can enlarge or reduce the nose, as well as reshape the bridge and nose tip.

Best Rhinoplasty Candidates

You may be a good candidate for rhinoplasty if the nose you were born with makes you self conscious or unhappy. Other candidates may be unhappy with how their nose has aged. Even slight changes to the shape of the nose can have a dramatic effect on appearance and can change how people interact with you. Plastic surgery can reshape deformities, reshape changes from aging and other causes, and restore balance.

Expectations are an important element in what makes a good candidate. The best nose surgery candidates simply want to improve the nose appearance, but do not seek perfection. The ideal candidate should not expect rhinoplasty to transform them into someone else. The best candidates are well adjusted and otherwise happy with their lives.

Minimum Age for Rhinoplasty

Many young people consider rhinoplasty; however, the procedure should wait until after the teenage growth period that occurs in the mid-teens. This growth period normally occurs from ages 14 to 15 for girls and somewhat later for boys.
Additional Procedures

Sometimes treating one area can cause an overall imbalanced appearance. If you are having the rhinoplasty procedure, you may also need to consider other facial procedures to achieve balance and proportion. For example, chin augmentation is often performed with rhinoplasty.

If you decide you need the additional procedure later, the two procedures may be more expensive than if you have them at the same time. Multiple procedures are increasingly popular as patients work with their surgeons to create more comprehensive treatment plans. A qualified surgeon can help you save time and potentially lower your rhinoplasty cost by combining treatments when appropriate.

Source : Your Plastic Surgery Guide