Patients can undergo nasal reconstruction surgery to address nasal deformities relating to skin cancer, accidents, or trauma to the nose. To date, many nasal reconstruction procedures have been performed around the world. And, the future of nasal reconstruction surgery looks promising, too.
Advancements in nasal reconstruction surgery are ongoing. To understand the potential impact of these advancements, let’s first consider the history of nasal bone reconstruction.
The History of Nasal Bone Reconstruction: Here’s What You Need to Know
Nasal bone reconstruction dates back thousands of years to the ancient Hindus. One of the punishments in ancient India was the removal of an individual’s nose. To repair the nose, the ancient Hindus used a form of nasal reconstruction that involved transposing an individual’s cheek flap.
The Branca family of Europe practiced the Indian version of nasal reconstruction during the 15th century. Meanwhile, Italians used nasal reconstruction techniques during the Renaissance, and Italian surgeon Gaspare Tagliacozzi refined nasal reconstruction surgery in the 16th century.
The first book written by Tagliacozzi was devoted to facial plastic surgery, particularly nasal reconstruction. Moreover, in a book published in 1597 that detailed his life’s work, Tagliacozzi explained his theory behind nasal reconstruction, provided details about the instruments used during the procedure, and described the steps involved in the operation. He also offered insights into post-nasal reconstruction surgery bandaging and care.
Next, the British documented Indian nasal reconstruction techniques. Gillies of England created nasal reconstruction rules and techniques that have been updated over time. These rules and techniques provide the basis for today’s version of nasal reconstruction surgery.
Nasal Bone Reconstruction Surgery Today
Nasal bone reconstruction has advanced leaps and bounds over the course of its history. Today, nasal bone reconstruction is a highly specialized procedure. Regardless of when and where the surgery is performed, it must be tailored to a patient.
There are two commonly used approaches in today’s nasal reconstruction procedure: open and closed. An open approach involves placement of the incision in the skin between a patient’s nostrils. Comparatively, a closed approach involves the placement of an incision inside the nostrils. A surgeon determines whether to use an open or closed approach before nasal reconstruction surgery is performed.
Prior to nasal reconstruction surgery, a patient is usually given general anesthesia. During surgery, a surgeon may lift flaps of skin or soft tissue in a patient’s nose. This allows the surgeon to adjust the patient’s nasal bone and/or cartilage. The surgeon may also use cartilage from a patient’s ear, rib, or other parts of their body.
Nasal reconstruction surgery must be performed by an expert facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon. That way, a patient can undergo nasal reconstruction to achieve a beautiful, functional nose.
Nasal Reconstruction Surgery Recovery
Following a nasal reconstruction procedure, the surgeon closes any incisions. A splint may also be placed around the patient’s nose.
Most nasal reconstruction surgery patients can resume their normal activities within about two weeks of their procedure. It can take a patient up to six months to fully heal after nasal reconstruction surgery. Postoperative care instructions are provided to a patient, and they must be followed to ensure he or she can achieve the full results of treatment.
Are You a Good Candidate for Nasal Reconstruction Surgery?
Those who are considering nasal reconstruction surgery must be in good health. Patients may be ineligible for nasal reconstruction surgery if they smoke, take blood-thinning medication, or are dealing with a vascular disorder. In addition, patients who are currently undergoing radiation therapy and/or recently underwent surgery may be ineligible for treatment.
A physical exam and other testing is required to determine a patient’s eligibility for nasal bone reconstruction. If a patient is deemed a good candidate for treatment, a personalized treatment plan is created for him or her. Or, if the potential risks of nasal reconstruction surgery outweigh its potential benefits, alternative treatment options can be explored.
Nasal Reconstruction Surgery Risks
Risks associated with nasal bone reconstruction include:
- Infection
- Stroke
- Excessive bleeding
- Vocal cord damage
The risks of nasal reconstruction surgery can be significant. They must be evaluated prior to treatment.
Dr. Babak Azizzadeh of the CENTER for Advanced Facial Plastic Surgery possesses board certification in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery and otolaryngology (head and neck surgery). He has a full understanding of the underlying structures of the head, and this knowledge enables him to help nasal reconstruction patients simultaneously improve the appearance of the nose and maintain the integrity of the nasal function. Plus, for patients who lose control of the nasal function, Dr. Azizzadeh performs nasal reconstruction to help them restore smooth breathing.
How Does Dr. Azizzadeh Approach Nasal Reconstruction Surgery?
Dr. Azizzadeh takes a holistic approach to nasal reconstruction. As part of his approach, Dr. Azizzadeh focuses on the following areas:
- Listening to the Patient: Azizzadeh learns about a nasal reconstruction patient and takes a graduated approach to treatment. He first explores minimally invasive treatments, and if these options are insufficient, he then discusses surgical options.
- Facial Anatomy: The face consists of peaks, valleys, and other anatomical features that vary from person to person. Dr. Azizzadeh evaluates each area of a patient’s face thoroughly to ensure nasal reconstruction helps this individual preserve his or her facial form and features.
- Tissue Replacement: Each layer of the nose has different types of tissue. A nasal reconstruction procedure requires Dr. Azizzadeh to replace affected tissue with tissue that has similar properties. As such, he sometimes uses grafts from other parts of the body for tissue replacement.
- Preservation of the Nasal Function: Azizzadeh uses the full extent of his expertise to ensure patients retain maximum nasal function.
Dr. Azizzadeh is committed to finding ways to assist nasal reconstruction surgery patients. He continuously explores advancements in nasal reconstruction and ensures his patients can get the help they need to achieve the best results.
Learn More About Nasal Reconstruction Surgery
Dr. Azizzadeh is internationally renowned for his nasal reconstruction and facial plastic surgery expertise. His goal is to provide patients with an aesthetically pleasing and functional nose, and he wants patients to be able to return to normal activities without any nasal defects. To find out more about nasal reconstruction, please contact us online or call us today at 310-657-2203.