Ethnic Rhinoplasty in St. Louis
The nose is one of the most defining facial features and one that varies the most between ethnicities.
Many people find themselves dissatisfied with their nose due to aesthetic or functional concerns, some of which are difficult to treat with traditional interventions. This can be especially frustrating for ethnic minorities, as most plastic surgeons are unaware of the added complications associated with rhinoplasty for ethnic groups. Many people from ethnic minorities have specific concerns based on their physical condition and cultural background. These factors must be taken into consideration for an ethnic rhinoplasty to be successful.
Fortunately, Dr. Porshinsky is a skilled and experienced surgeon who understands the complexities of ethnic rhinoplasty.
What Are the Benefits of Ethnic Rhinoplasty?
Ethnic rhinoplasty is not a “Westernization” procedure. Its goal is not to mold your nose to mimic a different ethnicity; it is to highlight the beauty of your own.
Ethnic rhinoplasty is important for two reasons. First, every culture has their own beauty ideals, many of which stem centuries back and are deeply rooted in one’s identity. The second reason is much more practical. Nasal structure (including skin, bone, and cartilage thickness) varies between ethnicities, and the techniques used for one ethnicity may not be appropriate (or safe) for another.
During an ethnic rhinoplasty, the plastic surgeon must adapt his techniques to differing physical needs and cultural norms. Many ethnic groups have specific physical features that cannot be effectively treated with traditional rhinoplasty techniques.
For example, the nose bridge of people from East Asia tends to be lower and less arched. This means that traditional rhinoplasty techniques to adjust the nose bridge’s shape will not effectively treat such patients. Instead, specialized techniques must be employed to provide optimal results.
There are also cultural concerns that must be taken into account. Many African Americans choose to have their nostrils narrowed for aesthetic reasons. This is because of specific standards of beauty that are widely accepted among that population.
Dr. Porshinsky is well aware of the need to accept cultural differences to ensure that all his patients receive their desired results.
How Is Ethnic Rhinoplasty Performed?
The first step in any plastic surgery is a consultation. During this meeting with Dr. Porshinsky, the patient will discuss their goals, desires, and questions about the operation. Dr. Porshinsky will also conduct an evaluation to ensure that ethnic rhinoplasty will safely and effectively fulfill the patient’s needs. This is also the time for the patient and Dr. Porshinsky to discuss any specific cultural issues that may indicate the need for more specialized techniques.
During the operation, the patient will be placed under general anesthesia to ensure they experience no pain. An incision is usually made across the columella at the base of the nose (the tissue separating the nostrils) to allow Dr. Porshinsky to lift the skin and view the nasal structures. This incision results in minimal scarring in most cases.
He will then use specialized surgical techniques to treat his patient’s nose based on its physical condition. These techniques will adjust the septum’s size and shape to match the patient’s goals. Depending on the operation’s nature, Dr. Porshinsky may use a combination of grafts, excision, and physical reshaping as required. Unlike a traditional rhinoplasty, this procedure may also require skin grafts, depending on the scope of the operation.
Are you ready for your ethnic rhinoplasty?
Call us at (314) 649-5419 or contact us below.
How Long Does Recovery From Ethnic Rhinoplasty Take?
Following the operation, most patients experience swelling and discomfort for three to five days. Patients will resume daily activities within one to two weeks. Patients should avoid rigorous activities for six to eight weeks to ensure the tissues have time to settle.
What Are the Expected Results From Ethnic Rhinoplasty?
The initial results of ethnic rhinoplasty may be visible within three to six weeks. Final results may take six months to two years to fully develop, depending on the scope of the procedure and the extent of internal swelling.
The result of an ethnic rhinoplasty is usually a more symmetrical and aesthetically pleasing appearance based on the patient’s cultural norms and desires. Ethnic rhinoplasty, like traditional rhinoplasty, can be used to improve nasal functionality in addition to aesthetic adjustments.
Want to Learn More About Ethnic Rhinoplasty?
Dr. Porshinsky is the nasal surgery expert of Mercy Plastic Surgery Group. If you are interested in learning more about ethnic rhinoplasty, you can schedule a consultation with Dr. Porshinsky by calling his office at (314) 251-5570. You may also fill out this online form to schedule a consultation.