Dr. Yael Halaas, who is of Hispanic and Eastern European heritage, appreciates the role that ethnicity can play in successful rhinoplasty. She is keenly aware of the subtle qualities of each of the various ethnicities and understands what is needed to maintain them. She uses her vast experience with many types of ethnic rhinoplasties to shape a nose that is in harmony with the rest of a patient’s facial features.

The African American Nose

Common characteristics of the African American nose include:

  • Lower nasal bridge
  • Larger nostril width
  • Thin cartilage at the nasal tip
  • Excess fatty tissue at the nasal tip

About African American Rhinoplasty Procedure

Dr. Halaas will begin the transformation with a single incision along the bottom of the nose. Many times this incision can be placed inside the nose. This helps her assess your nose anatomy, revealing any bone and/or cartilage deficiencies that require attention. Any deficiencies you do have can be corrected through sculpting, suturing, and/or rasping (the use of a file), or in some cases, using implants. This technique leaves the tip of the nose intact, assuring long-lasting, stable results.

Once the reshaping is complete, Dr. Halaas will use fine sutures to close the incision at the bottom of the nose. She will apply a splint over the nose for support and a small dressing underneath the nose as needed. The nose splint will remain in place for about 7 days to protect the nose, after which it will be removed.

Before & After

Setting Expectations

After discussing your desired changes, Dr. Halaas uses computer imaging technology to create a photograph of how you will look with your refined nose! You can then approve that plan or work together to make any necessary adjustments. Dr. Halaas will use the photograph as a guide during your procedure.

About The Recovery

After your surgery, you may apply ice gently to minimize swelling and bruising. In most cases, Tylenol can help address any discomfort, but Dr. Halaas can prescribe stronger medication as needed. You’ll also be given a short course of antibiotics to help prevent infection. Plan to avoid sun exposure and strenuous activities for four weeks to ensure optimal healing. If you want an outstanding, ethnically appropriate rhinoplasty, Dr. Yael Halaas is your go-to surgeon. Not only has she been recognized as one of the leading facial plastic surgeons in New York City by numerous organizations and her peers, but she is also passionate about patient care and satisfaction.

Dr. Halaas, who is fully bilingual in English and Spanish, is certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology and the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. She uses state-of-the-art techniques, and is well versed in all forms of facial plastic surgery.

Because of her sensitivity to ethnic identity, her specific expertise, and her extensive experience with facial plastic surgery, Dr. Halaas is the ideal surgeon to help you achieve the transformation you’ve been wishing for.

Yael Halaas MD

American African Rhinoplasty FAQs

Will My Nose Be Packed?

In the past, surgeons would pack the nose with gauze to prevent bleeding after surgery. Currently, with self-dissolving materials and newer techniques, nasal packing is almost always avoided.

Does It Hurt?

When we have surgery on our limbs or belly, every time we move the area we can experience pain. Fortunately, we really don’t move our nasal bones so most patients feel little pain after nasal surgery. For the first few days, the nose feels congested and gradually improves as swelling subsides.

Does Insurance Pay For The Surgery At All?

Insurances pay for functional surgeries. When patients have nasal obstruction due to a deviated nasal septum or turbinate hypertrophy, they may need nasal surgery to relieve their symptoms. Repair of nasal fractures are also frequently covered by insurance. Most insurances do not cover cosmetic procedures. Most patients prefer to have their functional and cosmetic surgeries to be performed at the same time shortening the anesthesia and recovery time.

Will Everyone Know That I Had My Nose Done?

The art of rhinoplasty (cosmetic nasal surgery) is to bring out the patient’s best features and give the patient a natural, non-operated look. A good surgeon has to have the skill to tailor the surgery to the patient. One type of “nose job” does not fit all patients and can give the stereotypical artificial look. The key to a successful surgery is discussing with the patient what they want and bringing those dreams to reality.

What Kind Of Anesthesia Do I Need?

General anesthesia is my choice for nasal surgery. General anesthesia allows for the patient to be comfortable and fully monitored for the utmost safety. Occasionally limited nasal procedures, such as small adjustments to the tip, can be performed under local anesthesia.

Written by Dr. Halaas

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