Nose Surgery (Rhinoplasty) in Dalton & Chattanooga

Also serving Calhoun & Cartersville in North Georgia

Nose surgery is an effective way to alter certain parts of an individual's nose that make him or her unhappy. It's important to note that beauty is subjective and rhinoplasty is, in some ways, an art form. It requires the complete mastering of technical and surgical techniques, as well as an artistic eye that is wise to principles of balance, harmony and proportion. Dr. Joel Williams is an experienced rhinoplasty surgeon in the Chattanooga area and has treated many patients who struggle with their nose's appearance or function (i.e., breathing difficulties due to a structural deformity).

If you are interested in improving your nose's appearance or function, learn more about rhinoplasty and contact Dr. Williams' practice to set up a consultation.

Rhinoplasty Candidates

Rhinoplasty candidates usually experience one of the following:

  • Large nose that is out of proportion with the rest of the face
  • Hump on the bridge of the nose
  • Wide base
  • Droopy nasal tip
  • Uneven nostrils
  • Crookedness or asymmetry of the nose
  • Deviated septum
  • Breathing problems due to another structural deformity

Dr. Williams advises waiting until patients are at least 14 or 15 years of age before undergoing nose surgery, to ensure that the nose is finished developing. Suitable rhinoplasty candidates should be in good health and have reasonable expectations of the surgery. It's important not to be persuaded by outside influences, but rather to seek out the surgery for personal reasons. It is imperative to have specific goals of surgery in mind.

The Surgery

Rhinoplasty is offered as an outpatient procedure at Dr. Williams' Dalton surgical center. Dr. Williams takes one of two approaches to rhinoplasty: open and closed. These approaches differ in the placement of the surgical incisions. When performing an open rhinoplasty, Dr. Williams makes an incision across the thin strip of skin separating the nostrils. He lifts and separates the skin from the underlying tissue to gain greater access to the nasal cartilage and structures. The surgical incisions for a closed rhinoplasty are made within the nostrils, so any scarring is undetectable. Once he has access to the cartilage and tissue, Dr. Williams will adjust the nasal bridge, tip, width, nostrils or other parts of the nose to improve its appearance and/or breathing function.

Recovering from Rhinoplasty Surgery

Bruising and swelling are common after rhinoplasty, and will subside with time. It's important to rest as much as possible following surgery, keeping the head elevated. Aspirin or anti-inflammatory medications are restricted but pain medication will be prescribed for discomfort. Dr. Williams will schedule a follow-up visit to remove stitches, check on the healing progress and advise about returning to normal activities. Minor swelling may take up to a year to completely resolve before the final results stabilize, but a noticeable new look will become apparent within a few weeks after surgery.

Benefits and Risks of Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty can fix the one issue that a patient has always disliked about his or her nose (e.g., asymmetry, bump on the bridge or large nostrils). It can also provide significant relief for a deviated septum or other abnormality that is affecting breathing function. Dr. Williams is an experienced Chattanooga area nose surgeon who creates beautiful and natural-looking results, making sure that his patient's new nose blends in harmoniously with the rest of the facial features.

Rhinoplasty is generally a complication-free procedure, but there are risks with any surgery. Rhinoplasty risks include infection, hematoma, anesthesia-related complications and unsatisfactory outcome necessitating further surgical improvement.

If you would like to schedule a rhinoplasty consultation with Dr. Williams please contact his practice today or email your questions.