Rhinoplasty Candidacy Chicago

Introduction

Rhinoplasty, also known as nose reshaping surgery, is designed to improve the size and shape of the nose and correct any aesthetic flaws. It is also performed to correct a deformity where the nasal septum (the thin wall separating the nostrils) is off-center or crooked.

The ideal candidate for rhinoplasty is in good physical and mental health, does not smoke and is free of any chronic medical conditions which could increase the surgical risks or impair the healing process. Experienced plastic surgeons prefer to wait until the nose has finished growing (typically around age 15 or 16 in girls, 17 or 18 in boys).

Am I a Good Candidate for Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty candidates should ask themselves the following questions:

  • Is my nose too large or too small for my face?
  • Do I have a hump or depression on the bridge of my nose?
  • Is my nasal tip upturned or drooping or otherwise unrefined?
  • Are my nostrils too wide for my nose?
  • Is my nose crooked or out of alignment?
  • Am I having problems breathing through my nose because of a deviated septum?

If the answer to any of the above questions is “yes,” rhinoplasty might be an appropriate surgical solution. Dr. Gikas meets with all rhinoplasty candidates to discuss the procedure in greater detail and examine the candidate’s nose.

Rhinoplasty Consultation

During a consultation with a rhinoplasty candidate, Dr. Gikas listens carefully to the patient’s concerns, and complaints, as well as theirand expectations. After conducting a physical examination and evaluating the issues that need to be addressed, Dr. Gikas lays out a detailed surgical plan with the patient.

Photographs are taken and computer imaging is used to communicate with the patient the goals of the surgery. Dr. Gikas may recommend additional procedures that will enhance the patient’s facial balance (e.g., liposuction of the chin/neck area, chin implants, fat grafting). In addition to discussing the surgical plan, Dr. Gikas will also talk about the post-operative and recovery stages. He will explain potential risks and complications, and discuss how they are dealt with. The office manager will discuss costs with the surgical candidate.

Motivations for Surgery

It’s important for rhinoplasty candidates (particularly aesthetic rhinoplasty candidates) to have reasonable and specific expectations of surgery, and pursue surgery for themselves, not because of pressure from any outside sources.

Dr. Gikas will ask each aesthetic rhinoplasty candidate to identify what they don’t like about the appearance of their nose, and to describe their ideal cosmetic outcome. He will also discuss the types of results that are possible and show before-and-after photographs so candidates can get a better idea of the results. Candidates should also keep in mind that rhinoplasty will improve the appearance of the nose, but it won’t produce perfection.

Schedule a Rhinoplasty Consultation

If you’re considering rhinoplasty to improve the appearance of your nose (or correct a deviated septum), please call board-certified plastic surgeon Elias Gikas at (773) 878-6525 to schedule an informational consultation.