Nasal reconstruction can restore or recreate your nose after an accident, injury, congenital cause, or a defect due to prior surgery has taken it’s form away. Esteemed plastic surgeon Leo Urbinelli, M.D., M.A., F.A.A.P., at PNW Plastic Surgery, has extensive experience in nasal reconstruction. He combines technical skill with a keen aesthetic sense to achieve your reconstruction. Call the Portland, Oregon, office or click the online appointment maker.
Some common reasons that you could need nasal reconstructive surgery include:
If your nasal issues cause significant physical or emotional distress, nasal reconstructive surgery may be the best way to reclaim function and appearance.
Dr. Urbinelli starts with a careful exam of your face and a review of your medical history. In most cases, he uses imaging tests, such as X-rays, or CT scan to assess the full extent of the damage to your bones and soft tissues.
A member of the team takes photos, which Dr. Urbinelli can use to help with surgical planning.
Dr. Urbinelli develops a full surgical plan before he initiates your surgery. He can also adjust the plan if new problems (those that didn't appear on imaging tests) appear during your reconstructive procedure.
Nasal reconstruction is a highly individualized procedure. In many cases, it's a few different techniques, based on your needs. Some of the many techniques that Dr. Urbinelli may use during nasal constructions include:
In some cases, Dr. Urbinelli may conduct staged reconstructive surgery, performing one procedure now and other follow-up procedures over the coming weeks, based on the complexity of your issues.
As with the surgical procedures themselves, recovery varies widely by patient. For less complex nasal differences, your initial recovery may require just 1-2 weeks, with suture removal after about a week. Dr. Urbinelli may clear you to resume normal activities within as little as 10-14 days.
For more complex nasal reconstruction, particularly those involving the cheeks and forehead areas, you could need staged surgery spaced over one to two months. Thus, the recovery time could be much longer.
Ready to learn more about nasal reconstruction? Call PNW Plastic Surgery or click the online scheduling link.