Ultrasonic Rhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty, surgery of the nose, is widely considered to require the greatest skill of virtually any cosmetic facial procedure, which is why it’s essential for individuals to choose an experienced plastic surgeon like Dr Vlad Milovic to perform the treatment. Dr Milovic is one of the few plastic surgeons in Australia familiar with this latest innovation in technique, an approach he brought with him from Europe.
- Ultrasonic Rhinoplasty Risks
- What Is Ultrasonic Rhinoplasty?
- Ultrasonic Rhinoplasty Candidates
- Ultrasonic Vs. Traditional Rhinoplasty
- Ultrasonic Rhinoplasty Procedure
- Ultrasonic Rhinoplasty Recovery
Risks of Surgery
All surgical procedures carry risks and the potential for complications. While Dr. Milovic is extensively trained and experienced with a comprehensive array of plastic surgery procedures and utilizes advanced techniques to help mitigate those risks, patients considering treatment should always be fully aware of them beforehand. Dr. Milovic will go over all risks and potential complications associated with the procedure during the initial consultation, and we are happy to address any questions or concerns you may have.
Risks of this procedure include, but are not limited to:
- Infection
- Scarring
- Excessive bleeding
- Pain/discomfort
- Nerve damage
- Bruising
- Swelling
- Complications relating to anaesthesia
- Seroma (a growth/lump near the surgery site that may become infectious)
- Unsatisfactory cosmetic results
- Death
- Poor wound healing
- Potential for an additional surgery
- Blood clots
- Breathing difficulties
- Numbness or other skin sensation changes in the treatment area
- Septal perforation that may be correctable with an additional surgery or may be permanent
- Skin discolouration
- Asymmetrical results
What Is Ultrasonic Rhinoplasty?
Ultrasonic rhinoplasty, or Piezo rhinoplasty, is a new and innovative technology which removes the need to break your nasal bones. Developed in Europe and brought to Australia by Dr Milovic, ultrasonic technology is used to modify the shape and appearance of nasal bones and cartilage without employing traditional open surgical techniques. It is considered by many to be a revolution in aesthetic nose surgery.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Ultrasonic Rhinoplasty?
Patients who are good candidates for rhinoplasty may also be suitable for ultrasonic rhinoplasty, particularly if they are concerned about the visibility of external incisions once healed. Broadly speaking, patients considering ultrasonic rhinoplasty should:
- Be in good general health
- Have reasonable expectations for the result
- Understand and be able to complete the pre- and post-operative requirements
- Desire cosmetic and/or functional enhancement of the nose due to humps, bumps, asymmetry, difficulty breathing caused by a deviated septum, dissatisfying tip shape or angle or another issue
During your consultation with Dr Milovic, he can create a 3D digital simulation of your ultrasonic rhinoplasty procedure and a potential visualisation of your final result using the state-of-the-art VECTRA®H2 3D imaging system. This approach can show you how different techniques can deliver various outcomes, while also setting realistic expectations for the result you could achieve. Learn more about this technology on our rhinoplasty page.
Ultrasonic Rhinoplasty Vs. Traditional Rhinoplasty
In ultrasonic rhinoplasty, Dr Milovic will modify the structure of the nose with an open tip rhinoplasty access. The Piezo tools, though, are more sophisticated than a hammer and chisel. With almost every traditional rhinoplasty, plastic surgeons need to use a hammer and chisel to break nasal bones so they can be moved, narrowed and shaped. Ultrasonic rhinoplasty, on the other hand, typically allows for fine sculpting and remodelling of the nasal bones with minimal trauma to the surrounding tissues. For this reason, it is a more complex procedure than traditional rhinoplasty; however, there is generally minimised bruising and swelling.
The appropriate technique for your needs will depend on the particulars of your treatment program, and Dr Milovic will review your options and provide his recommendation during your initial consultation.
What Should I Expect During the Ultrasonic Rhinoplasty Procedure?
Surgery will be performed in an accredited surgical facility, and a certified (FANZCA) anaesthetist will help to ensure your experience is as comfortable and as safe as possible. Ultrasonic rhinoplasty typically takes around one to two hours to complete, depending on the complexity of your program, and you should be able to return home the same day as the procedure. Dr Milovic will perform this procedure only at accredited day or private hospitals under a general anaesthesia, for your ultimate safety.
What Will Ultrasonic Rhinoplasty Recovery Be Like?
Some bruising, swelling and discomfort should be expected, though you may experience these symptoms less intensely than you would with a traditional rhinoplasty procedure. We can provide medication to potentially alleviate pain, and after a few days these effects should begin to subside. You will have regular post-operative follow-ups with Dr Milovic to monitor your recovery progress. Strenuous activity and exercise should be avoided for the first several weeks, though most normal daily habits can be performed after about one to two weeks. Final results can take time, and minor swelling may persist for up to a year, but you should have an excellent idea of the outcome after a month or two.
Curious how ultrasonic rhinoplasty can help you achieve your cosmetic goals? Talk to us today to learn more about the differences between traditional and ultrasonic rhinoplasty to see which one might be right for you.