Rhinoplasty is used to reshape the nose, enhance the facial appearance and improve the nasal function. In some instances, a nose surgery inadvertently causes a person’s voice to change, too.
Every person has a distinct voice, but modifying the nose may narrow the nasal cavity. As such, a rhinoplasty surgery patient may experience minor vocal changes following treatment.
A recent study of 27 patients undergoing rhinoplasty surgery highlighted the impact of a nose job on a person’s voice. In the study, trained listeners identified “hypernasality” in the voices of some rhinoplasty patients; hyponasal speech occurs when insufficient air moves through a person’s nasal cavity, and it sometimes affects people who are dealing with a stuffy nose.
Additionally, an acoustic analysis performed as part of the aforementioned study revealed some patients experienced voice frequency and amplitude changes. This may have occurred due to narrowing of the nasal cavity after nose surgery.
For people who are weighing the pros and cons of rhinoplasty, it is essential to consider how the procedure may impact the voice, as well as other risks of treatment. By working with an expert facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon like Dr. Babak Azizzadeh, an individual can gain full insights into all aspects of rhinoplasty surgery.
What Are the Risks Associated with Rhinoplasty Surgery?
In addition to potential voice changes, the risks associated with nose surgery include:
- Infection
- Scarring
- Nasal septal perforation
- Difficulty breathing through the nose
- Skin discoloration
- Swelling
- Numbness in and around the nose
- Poor surgery results
By working with Dr. Azizzadeh, an individual can learn about the risks associated with rhinoplasty surgery prior to treatment. Dr. Azizzadeh wants his patients to know what to expect throughout rhinoplasty surgery, and he educates his patients about the procedure. He also performs a full medical assessment to determine if an individual qualifies for rhinoplasty surgery.
What to Expect During a Rhinoplasty Surgery Assessment
Rhinoplasty delivers many benefits, but the procedure is not right for everyone. Therefore, Dr. Azizzadeh conducts a medical assessment to determine if a patient is eligible for a nose job. This assessment involves the following components:
1. Review of a Patient’s Medical History
Dr. Azizzadeh finds out why a patient is considering rhinoplasty surgery, as well as his or her treatment goals. He also asks questions about a patient’s medical history, and he wants to find out if a patient is currently taking any medications or has received prior treatments. If a person has a bleeding disorder or any other medical conditions that may disqualify him or her from rhinoplasty surgery, Dr. Azizzadeh then offers rhinoplasty alternatives.
2. Physical Exam
Dr. Azizzadeh performs a physical exam of a patient, and he may require laboratory tests as well. At this time, Dr. Azizzadeh reviews a patient’s facial features closely, too. Dr. Azizzadeh’s goal is to ensure his patient can enjoy a nose that complements his or her facial features and functions properly. With a physical exam, Dr. Azizzadeh can learn how a rhinoplasty will impact a patient’s facial appearance and tailor his treatment plan accordingly.
3. 3D Imaging
Dr. Azizzadeh uses the Vectra 3D imaging system to capture 3D photographs of a patient’s face. He then uses these photographs to visualize how a rhinoplasty will transform a patient’s appearance. The Vectra system provides unprecedented rhinoplasty insights, as it allows a patient to see how he or she may look after surgery. It also helps Dr. Azizzadeh develop a rhinoplasty treatment plan designed to accommodate his patient’s facial rejuvenation goals.
4. Discussion of Treatment Expectations
It is paramount that Dr. Azizzadeh and his patient are on the same page relative to rhinoplasty surgery. Thus, Dr. Azizzadeh spends time teaching his patient about rhinoplasty surgery, and he explains how a patient can prepare for the day of treatment and surgery recovery process. Dr. Azizzadeh wants his patient to understand the long-term ramifications of rhinoplasty surgery, and he is happy to respond to his patient’s concerns or questions about treatment.
Following a rhinoplasty surgery assessment, Dr. Azizzadeh crafts a custom treatment plan for his patient. Dr. Azizzadeh and his patient then put this plan into action, and Dr. Azizzadeh tracks his patient’s progress. Ultimately, a successful treatment plan allows a patient to achieve a harmonious facial appearance in which the nose works correctly and appears in proportion to the chin, cheeks and other facial features.
Why Should You Choose Dr. Azizzadeh for Rhinoplasty Surgery?
Many surgeons can perform rhinoplasty procedures, but Dr. Azizzadeh possesses a unique combination of skills, expertise and experience that make him an ideal choice for nose surgeries. Dr. Azizzadeh is dual board-certified and Harvard-trained, and he is globally recognized for his work in head and neck surgery and facial plastic and reconstructive surgery. He also takes a holistic approach to rhinoplasty surgery, and he devotes the necessary time and resources to ensure his patients can quickly and safely revitalize their facial appearance.
Dr. Azizzadeh is available to meet with individuals to discuss rhinoplasty surgery and other facial plastic and reconstructive procedures. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Azizzadeh, please call us today at 310-657-2203.